The results of treatment of nonunions with electrical stimulation

Bioelectric effects on bone have recently stimulated much interest and research. This paper reviews the current literature regarding the electrical stimulation of bone, and introduces an independent prospective study from Rancho Los Amigos Hospital reviewing our results with its use on nonunions.We have basically followed Brighton's technique for electrical stimulation. This consists of percutaneous Teflon coated Steinmann pin electrodes inserted directly into the area of nonunion. An external power pack delivers 20 ma continuously for three months. We have differed from Brighton in that four of eight patients were immobilized by a Hoffman external fixation device. The Hoffman device was left in place six months.Eight patients have undergone treatment. Four patients (3 tibias and 1 femur) had Hoffman stabilization and have successfully completed treatment. They had all failed previous multiple surgical treatments. One other patient healed with only dummy electrode implantation. The other three cases were unable to complete the entire three months of stimulation due to complications, and remained as nonunions.The results of our study have been encouraging. Electrical stimulation of bone may soon be added to the armamentarium of the practicing orthopedic surgeon.