The Effect of Transistor-Regulated Direct Current on Non-Fractured Rabbit Femur

Abstract

An experimental study was performed to examine the effects of transistor-regulated 20 microampére direct current on rabbit femur and to evaluate methods of measuring the effects. The anode and the cathode were both placed in drill holes in the anterior aspect of the cortex of the right femur, the left femur being used as a control with the electrodes without current. The effects of the electrical stimulation were evaluated by means of roentgenograms, photomorphometric measurements of the cortical width and measurements of bone volume, ash-weight and ⁸⁵Sr uptake. In the roentgenograms it could be seen that osteogenesis was induced both at the anode and at the cathode. Also, an increased uptake of ⁸⁵Sr was demonstrated indicating an increased bone formation rate.

Key words:

• bone formation
• electrical stimulation
• osteogenesis