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How do they determine if I am allergic to the titanium? Right now there is a screw over my SI joint bone that he thinks is causing the pain. I’m getting an injection in a couple weeks that will determine that. If that’s the case he is going to remove it. He will leave the other hardware in because it’s already fused into my bones. I also have two loose screws that needs to be fixed on my left SI.
Replies to "How do they determine if I am allergic to the titanium? Right now there is a..."
eddiestella, MELISA is a serum test for metal allergy.
Jennifer's skin pigmentation and hives are presentation of allergic reaction.
I think you will be getting a numbing agent to determine if the positioning of the screw is causing the pain.
I'm curious about your SI fusions. And would be interested in your surgeries, types of appliance and the positive and negative effects. What instigated the need? How will they fix the loose screws.
I'm not sure if I should be wanting anyone in pain to sit and type.
Hope you'll keep us posted.
Terry
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@eddiestella1 There is a lab in Chicago that tests for allergies and immune responses to materials in surgical implants. It is a bit pricey and my insurance didn't cover it. I paid around $500 for the blood test 7 years ago. A sample needs to be shipped and stay warm during shipping so they supply a heat pack. My results did not indicate any reactions, but then problems can develop after a period of time from exposure to a material. Here is the link:
https://www.orthopedicanalysis.com/
I think the steroid injections work by reducing inflammation, and that can reduce pressure that is causing pain. It's a common thing spine surgeons do to determine if surgery will help relieve pain with decompression. I guess it's possible to have pain without having an allergic reaction too.