[The influence of direct electric current on bone formation (author's transl)].

The authors have studied the effects of a 20 microampere current applied to bone in rabbits and dogs. The results have been analysed according to the age of animal, whether mature or immature, and the nature of the electrode (whether steel or platinum). They found no different in the osteogenesis produced in the medullary canal which was constant. The authors further studied the effects of currents on osteotomies of the radius in dogs which generally led to non-union in the absence of electrical currents. They failed to demonstrate any stimulation of bone repair by the current. They conclude that bone formation in the medullary canal of intact bones and the repair of fractures are two different processes.