A review of the biophysical basis for the clinical application of electric fields in soft-tissue repair.

Interest in the role of electrical interactions as epigenetic regulators of wound healing had its beginnings nearly 40 years ago. Because the mechanisms of action are not understood (which obviates rational therapy), the empiric application of fields to wounds has produced mixed results. However, taken collectively, clinical trials have demonstrated some beneficial effects. Tests on soft tissues of animals have shown that electric stimulation can influence the rate of wound healing and scar strength. Natural epithelial-derived sodium currents have been discovered in the wounds of invertebrates and mammals. It is theorized that these currents may be a normal controlling factor in wound healing. Therefore, perturbation of these signals is important to understand. The purpose of this review is to put into proper perspective the biophysical, physiological, and clinical data pertaining to use of electricity to control wound healing, with the goal of minimizing much of the prevailing confusion.