[Experimental study on the application of direct current to the intra-osseous implant]

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of the direct current electrical stimulation on surrounding tissue of the intra-osseous implant. The implant was composed of a peripheral hydroxyapatite layer and a central metal which was used as electrodes, and applied 10 microA constant direct current. They were implanted in femurs of four guinea pigs. These results were as follows: 1. When the bone marrow is stimulated electrically with 10 microA direct current for 28 days, large amount of bone formation around the implant was seen in wide area. 2. There was a different reaction surrounding tissue between cathode and anode. Around the cathode, bone formation on the surface of the implant was recognized remarkably. Around the anode, little amount of bone formation on the surface of the implant was recognized. 3. The electrical stimulation, with newly developed power unit and electrode, accelerated new bone formation.