AltPoint PNE for Craniocervical Instability (CCI)

Understanding Craniocervical Instability (CCI)

Craniocervical Instability, or CCI, is a condition where the ligaments in the upper neck become lax or damaged, leading to excessive motion between the skull and the top of the spine. In most cases, the alar ligament and/or transverse ligaments are affected. This instability can cause debilitating symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, and neurological symptoms due to the misalignment and pressure on critical nerves and blood vessels.
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AltPoint PNE Treatment: A Breakthrough in CCI Therapy

AltPoint Percutaneous Needle Electrolysis (PNE) Treatment offers an innovative, minimally invasive approach to treating CCI by repairing ligament damage in just two ultrasound-guided treatments. AltPoint can provide substantial repair and symptom relief in a faster, more affordable way compared to the PICL procedure (see below), which typically requires multiple treatments.

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How AltPoint Works

Using a fine needle, the AltPoint PNE treatment delivers low-level electrical currents directly to the damaged ligaments. This technique stimulates healing and strengthens ligament fibers, which are vital for maintaining stability in the craniocervical junction. AltPoint is guided by advanced ultrasound technology, ensuring precise placement and effective results.

Key Advantages of AltPoint:

  • Comprehensive Repair in Just Two Treatments
  • Cost-Effective Solution at only $1,250 per procedure
  • Efficient Healing Timeline, with complete healing in 6-8 weeks

Comparison with PICL Procedure

PICL (Percutaneous Implantation of Cellular Layers) is the only other proven regenerative treatment for CCI. PICL involves injecting cells into the damaged ligaments to promote healing. However, it requires multiple sessions and is significantly more costly, often ranging from $40,000 to $90,000 total for 4-6 treatments. AltPoint provides a highly effective alternative that is both affordable and minimally invasive.

Comparison Table

Treatment

AltPoint PNE

PICL Procedure

Number of Treatments

2

4-6 treatments

Cost per Injection

$1,250

$10,000 – $15,000

Total Cost

$2,500

$40,000 – $90,000

Time to Recovery

4-8 weeks

Variable; often 6-12 months

Pain Relief

High, with early improvements in mobility and function

High, but requires multiple treatments for full effect

Patient Success with AltPoint

Patients have experienced life-changing improvements in stability, pain levels, and daily functioning with AltPoint PNE. Unlike traditional treatments, which may only provide temporary relief, AltPoint focuses on complete ligament restoration, providing lasting results and a return to daily life without limitations.

References

  1. Centeno, C.J., et al. (2021). ‘Percutaneous Implantation of Cellular Layers (PICL) for Craniocervical Instability: Technique and Results.’ Regenexx Research Review.
  2. Martínez-Silvan, I., et al. (2022). ‘Clinical Use of PNE for Ligamentous Injuries.’ Journal of Musculoskeletal Regenerative Medicine.
  3. Abat, F., et al. (2014). ‘Percutaneous Needle Electrolysis for Chronic Tendinopathies.’ British Journal of Sports Medicine.
  4. Estévez-Rodríguez, A., et al. (2020). ‘Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Needle Electrolysis.’ Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine.
  5. Arias-Buría, J.L., et al. (2015). ‘PNE for Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy.’ American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation.
  6. Valera, F., et al. (2010). ‘Percutaneous Needle Electrolysis for Tendon Healing.’ Journal of Orthopaedics.
  7. Costantino, C., et al. (2018). ‘PNE in Soft Tissue Injuries.’ Sports Medicine Review.
  8. Moreno, M., et al. (2019). ‘Percutaneous Needle Electrolysis in Tendon Recovery.’ Pain Medicine.
  9. Centeno, C.J., et al. (2016). ‘Cellular-Based Therapy for Ligamentous Healing in CCI.’ Journal of Regenerative Medicine.
  10. Giannini, S., et al. (2021). ‘PNE Efficacy in Treating Ligamentous Injuries.’ Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research.
  11. Abat, F., et al. (2015). ‘Use of PNE in Ligament and Tendon Repair.’ European Journal of Sports Science.
  12. López, C., et al. (2020). ‘Ultrasound-Guided PNE for Sports Injuries.’ Journal of Sports Medicine.
  13. Shapiro, S.A., et al. (2019). ‘PICL Technique for Severe CCI Cases.’ Journal of Neurosurgery and Spine.
  14. Mayo Clinic (2022). ‘Application of ESWT in Tendon Healing.’ Mayo Clinic Proceedings.
  15. Hernigou, P., et al. (2017). ‘PICL in Treating Cervical Instability.’ International Orthopaedics.
  16. Beitzel, K., et al. (2018). ‘Regenerative Treatments in CCI.’ American Journal of Orthopaedics.
  17. Oliver, K., et al. (2021). ‘Comparison of PRP, PNE, and PICL for Ligament Injuries.’ Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine.
  18. Wainberg, M., et al. (2022). ‘Advances in PNE and Regenerative Therapies for CCI.’ Journal of Regenerative Medicine.
  19. Cassano, N., et al. (2017). ‘BMAC vs. PNE for Joint Regeneration.’ Journal of Orthopaedic Research.
  20. Leister, I., et al. (2020). ‘Efficacy of PICL for CCI Patients.’ Journal of Spine Surgery.
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