A new method for osteosynthesis using dielectric (non-conductive) fixation devices

Investigation in the field of electrophysiology shows that bioelectric phenomena of different origin are present in bone, the most important being the bioelectric potential connected with bone viability and metabolism. The negative biopotential is high at the fracture site where metabolism is also increased. During healing the negative values decrease and when it is complete the configuration of biopotentials along the length of the bone regains the pattern characteristic of intact bone. Negative biopotentials are needed to achieve callus formation and they disappear when healing has occurred. A metal device is used for osteosynthesis to obtain stable fixation of the fragments, but the electroconductive metal produces a 'short-circuit' of biopotentials along its length, so depriving the bone of necessary negative biopotential. Consequently the intensity of the metabolic processes is also reduced, leading to a relative delay in callus formation. Although a plaster cast may fail to provide adequate stability the natural electrophysiological conditions are preserved, and the period of callus formation is shortened. The negative biopotentials required for fracture union may be preserved by using non-conductive (dielectric) implants to achieve stable osteosynthesis.