Medicine

In 1979, FDA approved the usage of pulsed electromagnetic fields for the treatment of delayed or non-healing fractures. However, the underlying mechanisms at a cellular level are still not completely understood. Both in vitro and vivo, research findings have revealed that certain electromagnetic fields, can enhance bone fracture healing and bone formation by bone marrow derived osteoblasts.

Fractures are common in Australia and of particular concern with the aging demographic with fractures associated with osteoporosis. The incidence of hip fractures has been projected to increase by 15% every 5 years an estimated 150,000 fractures by 2026 and over 200,000 by 2050. Fracture management frequently requires the implantation of internal fixation devices such as plates, rods and screws in order to stabilise the injury. Traditionally, such implants are made of materials such as stainless steel, titanium or cobalt-chromium alloys.