Abstract
The application of microampere direct current (d.c.) to electrodes implanted in bone results in a proliferative response that has been found useful in the treatment of certain types of fracture. The mechanism of this response is unknown. In this investigation, the d.c. polarisation properties of 11 implantable cathode materials were measured,in vitro andin vivo, and then related to the conditions known to produce the osteogenic response. From these data, limiting parameters for clinical use of the various electrodes can be determined. Nitrogen purge experiments showed the dependence of the current on molecular oxygen and suggested that the products of oxygen reduction (H2O2, O2 −, OH·, OH− etc.) may mediate the proliferation of bone by appropriate cells in the region of the electrode. The presence of these intermediates, some of which are free radicals, and their possible side effects needs further study.
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Spadaro, J.A., Becker, R.O. Function of implanted cathodes in electrode-induced bone growth. Med. Biol. Eng. Comput. 17, 769–775 (1979). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02441560
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02441560