Asymmetric biphasic voltage stimulation of the osteotomized rabbit bone.

An experimental study was performed to determine the effect of electric current on the healing of osteotomies in the antebrachium of the rabbit. Starting with the assumption that the waveform of biphasic asymmetric voltage simulates the asymmetric pattern of stress-induced physiological electrical potentials in normal bone, biphasic asymmetric voltage was applied to the osteotomized radius or ulna. The effects of the electrical stimulation were evaluated by means of X-rays and histological studies. The voltage supplied induced periosteal proliferation whether implanted, insulated electrodes were employed or uninsulated external transfixation pins were used as electrodes. The stimulation had not only osteogenic but also chondrogenic effect. The external callus formation at the osteotomy sites and around the transfixation pins proved to be greater in the stimulated animals than in the controls.