The use of electrical stimulation to enhance spinal fusion.
The goal of spinal arthrodesis is a solid osseous union across one or more spinal segments. A solid bone union after arthrodesis is commonly known as a spinal fusion. Surgeons have begun to understand the biomechanical and biological factors that influence the bone-healing process. One of the most commonly used adjuncts is spinal instrumentation. Instrumentation has increased the spinal fusion rate; however, fusion failure (that is, nonunion or pseudarthrosis) remains significant. A less commonly used adjunct is electrical stimulation (ES). Investigators in experimental studies have demonstrated the beneficial effects of ES on increasing the fusion rate. In this review the authors discuss the evidence concerning the benefits of ES as an adjunct to spinal arthrodesis. In addition, the different types of ES devices are described along with the current experimental and clinical evidence for each type of device.
Morone
Michael A
MA
Deaconess Billings Clinic, Billings, Montana 59107-7000, USA. mmorone@billingsclinic.org
Feuer
Henry
H
D000818:Animals; D004599:Electric Stimulation Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae / Q000601:surgery; D013122:Spinal Diseases / Q000601:surgery* / Q000628:therapy; D013123:Spinal Fusion / Q000379:methods*