Static magnetic field on wound healing in rodents: a systematic review and meta-analysis

The aim of this study was to systematically review the preclinical studies that have applied the static magnetic field to wound healing.

The search strategy was performed in databases: PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, LILACS, CINAHL and Cochrane Database, and in gray literature. The inclusion criteria were: Pre-clinical studies, either with a separate control/sham parallel-group or cross-over design in rodents that used magnets to treat skin injuries anywhere on the body. The risk of bias tool was the Systematic Review Center for Laboratory Animal Experimentation (SYRCLE).

Eight randomized clinical trials were included. Wound rate area DM experimental vs DM sham [MD = 2.19, 95% CI, (-0.61, 4.99), I² 25%, p = 0.13] and wound rate area - DM experimental vs non-DM control [MD = 3.33, 95% CI, (-1.86, 8.55), I² 63%, p = 0.21] were not statistically significant. A significant improvement in gross healing time in the experimental group DM compared to the DM sham [MD = -4.48, IC 95%, (-7.88, -1.07), I² 38%, p = 0.010]. The same way tensile strength - DM and non DM subgroup analysis showed improved tensile strength in both the non-diabetic and diabetic experiment groups [SMD = 1.36, 95% CI, (0.60, 2.12), I² 0%, p = 0.0005].

Although not statistically significant, the static magnetic field had a positive effect on wound healing in rodents compared to the sham or control group. There was a significant improvement in the assessment of healing time and skin tensile strength.