Safety analysis of percutaneous needle electrolysis: a study of needle composition, morphology, and electrical
Ramón Margalef1, Marc Bosque1, Francisco Minaya-Muñoz2,3
1Unit of Histology and Neurobiology, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Rovira i Virgili University, Reus, Spain.
Background:
Percutaneous needle electrolysis (PNE) consists of a galvanic current combined with the insertion of a solid needle into the tissues of the musculoskeletal system. The application of a galvanic current through a needle can alter the morphology and composition during treatment application. This procedure may also provoke a localized temperature increase.
Aim:
The aim was to evaluate the safety of the PNE procedure by analyzing possible alterations of the needles employed.
Methods:
Physio Invasiva® and AguPunt EPI® brand needles, commonly used for the application of this technique, were analyzed in response to three different treatment protocols. Temperature changes were evaluated with the needles immersed in a test tube containing Ringer's solution, and electrical resistance was evaluated with a multimeter. The morphology of the needles, pre- and post-treatment, was examined with a scanning electron microscope (FEI Quanta 600), and the composition of the needles was evaluated using RX diffusion with Oxford Instruments software.
Results:
Ringer's solution contained in the test tubes examined did not present temperature changes. No changes were observed in the needles under investigation with respect to electrical resistance, morphology, or composition with a protocol applying 3-mA intensity for 3 s and three applications. However, important morphological alterations were observed that affected needle composition after 50 applications (at 3 mA for 3 s).
Conclusion:
PNE, applied according to conventional protocols, appeared to be safe and athermal, and did not provoke a loss of metal particles or modify the morphology of the needles used when studied in vitro.
