Effect of 10 kV/m Electric Field Therapy in a Pressure Injury Model in Rats: An Innovative Preliminary Report

Background: Pressure injuries are still an important health problem worldwide, although many therapies have been applied to date. This study aimed to determine the optimal duration of external application of a 10 kV/m direct current (DC, static) electric field in a pressure injury model in rats. Methods: Twelve male Wistar-Albino rats were divided into three groups: Grade-1, Grade-2, and Grade-3. Two round magnets were placed 4 h daily for one day in Grade-1, two days in Grade-2, and three days in Grade-3. Following wound formation, one rat from each group was designated the control, while the other rats were exposed to a 10 kV/m electric field for 15, 30, or 60 min. Results: Histopathological improvements were observed after 15 and 30 min of application, whereas a sharp decrease in the gene expression of growth factors at 30 min revealed that 15 min of application was optimal overall. Conclusions: According to the results of this study, 15 min applications of an external 10 kV/m electric field are promising for providing satisfactory results in wound healing. Further studies should examine in greater detail the effects of electric fields on growth factors and the mechanisms underlying these responses.