Electrically Mediated Trauma Repair
Abstract
In response to injury, cells and tissues drive a steady DC ionic current through themselves. This injury current and its associated electrical field is one component in the control system governing the overall tissue response to trauma. We first electrophysiologically characterize such endogenous currents and fields and using this knowledge artificially manipulate them. Our aim is to modulate wound healing and tissue regeneration. Our focus is trauma to the integument, hard tissue, and the nervous system. We have characterized the natural currents that are driven through a fracture in living bone, and we have manipulated bone remodeling by purely electrical means. We endeavor to enhance or initiate nerve regeneration in the mammalian spinal cord. This work is providing a basis for the development of small DC stimulator systems that can be implanted clinically with only modest surgical endeavor. Such stimulators may initiate striking regeneration of body tissues (nerve and soft tissue) as well as greatly speed the healing of bone, cartilage, and skin. Keywords: Regeneration (Physiology); Wounds and injuries.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 30, 1984
- Accession Number
- ADA177733
Entities
People
- Richard B. Borgens
Organizations
- Purdue Research Foundation