The electrical stimulation of bone healing

A brief introduction to the structure and electrical properties of bone is followed by an account of investigations into bone growth stimulation using small electric currents. Clinical work using this method is then summarized. The effects of electric and magnetic fields on bone are introduced, and clinical applications of the relevant techniques are described. The review concludes with examples of investigations into the fundamental aspects of the effects of electrical phenomena on bone. It is concluded that although the clinical applications of electrical stimulation are of value in the treatment of nonunion, the fundamental processes occurring remain obscure.