Why do electromagnetic pulses enhance bone growth?
The excitation probability of substrate molecules involved in the production of growth factors influencing the division of chondrocytes in the growth layer of bone under the influence of pulsed electromagnetic fields is studied theoretically in a quantum mechanical model calculation. In this model matrix elements and anti-bonding energy levels are assumed known and the dynamics of the interaction with pulsed electromagnetic fields is derived. The derivation makes it clear that continuous pulsing or large driving currents can overwhelm local diffusive transport to the growth plane resulting in a loss of its enhancement properties. Optimal locations within a pair of Helmholtz coils for enhancement of bone growth are also investigated and found to be close to the coils. The work presented here is believed to be the first derivation in a model calculation of a physical basis for the effects of pulsed electromagnetic fields on bone growth and fusion.
Department of Chemistry and Physics, Chicago State University, Chicago, IL 60628, USA. sbowen@csu.edu
Samuel P
SP
Bowen
Jay D
JD
Mancini
Vassilios
V
Fessatidis
Mark
M
Grabiner
D000818:Animals; D001846:Bone Development / Q000502:physiology* / Q000528:radiation effects*; D019902:Chondrocytes / Q000502:physiology* / Q000528:radiation effects; D003198:Computer Simulation; D004307:Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation; D004574:Electromagnetic Fields; D006801:Humans; D036341:Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins / Q000502:physiology*; D008954:Models, Biological; D010012:Osteogenesis / Q000502:physiology* / Q000528:radiation effects; D011829:Radiation Dosage
D036341:Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins