ELVIS in the House: Botox Isn't Just For Pretty Faces

PARSONS, Kan., July 28 – ELVIS gets Botox injections. Lots of them.

That would be ELVIS, the Electronic Virtual Injection Simulator mannequin, not the late singer. ELVIS, actually a collection of anatomical models and instructional aids, recently visited Labette Health’s physiatrists, Dr. Beth Shelton and Dr. Bradley Davis. ELVIS’ visit was provided by Allergan, Inc., the manufacturer of Botox, to help physicians advance their injection skills.

As physiatrists – physicians who specialize in physical medicine and rehabilitation – Drs. Shelton and Davis use Botox in their medical practice, although not for the cosmetic procedures that have made the nerve toxin known to the public.

“We use Botox to treat spasticity, muscle pain and increased muscle tone and rigidity associated with many different neurological disorders including spinal cord injuries, head injuries, stroke, cerebral palsy and multiple sclerosis,” Dr. Davis said.

The injections, which work by temporarily blocking chemical signals from the nerve ending to the muscle, render the muscle with less tone. This takes effect in approximately seven days and is effective for many months, he added.

“We have been using Botox to treat a patient with a brain injury, and it has made a significant difference in his function,” Dr. Shelton said. “Because of the brain injury, his arm muscles were so tight that he couldn’t straighten his arm. His elbow and wrist were bent to an angle greater than 130 degrees, and his fingers and thumb were clenched in a fist that he was unable to open. This position was not only less functional but also painful for the patient. After Botox injections, he is able to straighten his arm on his own power as well as straighten his wrist and fingers. He is able to open doors, hold objects and feed himself. And he has reduced pain.”

Although the effects of Botox injections are temporary, they may have a beneficial impact over the long term as well, Dr. Davis said.

“The injured part of the brain can make muscles overactive. The injections don’t stop the brain from sending those signals, but they do stop the muscle locally. That gives the other muscles a chance to work against the muscles that are working too hard.”

The ELVIS mannequin has sensors embedded in its plastic muscles. When a special hypodermic needle is inserted, an electronic display tells the physician if the needle is inserted in the proper muscle.  This is ELVIS’ second visit to Drs. Shelton and Davis. Both spent time with the simulator practicing their injection skills while residents at the University of Kentucky.

Labette Health Physiatrists Dr. Beth Shelton and Dr. Bradley Davis work with ELVIS, the Electronic Virtual Injection Simulator.