The use of acupuncture-like electrical stimulation for wound healing of lesions unresponsive to conventional treatment

Am J Acupunct. 1999;27(1-2):5-14.

Abstract

Based on previous experimental evidence suggesting improved healing of wounds treated with electrical stimulation, we conducted a clinical trial with patients seeking alternative medicine after unsuccessful conventional medical treatment. Electricity was delivered in two forms: (1) For wounds with extensive loss of tissue and/or those that had failed to heal spontaneously, electrical stimulation was delivered via subcutaneously inserted needles surrounding the wound edges and applying a dose charge of 0.6 coulombs/cm2/day; (2) in second degree burn injuries, lesions were covered with gauze soaked in a 10% (w/v) sterile saline solution and the same dose of electricity was applied as for (1). Forty-four patients were treated with electrical stimulation of the skin; 34 in group (1) and 10 in group (2). Following electrostimulation in all patients in both groups healing proceeded in a thoroughly organized manner, almost regardless of the severity of the type of wound or burn treated. Advantages and limitations of this technique are discussed.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Burns / pathology
  • Burns / therapy
  • Dogs
  • Electric Stimulation
  • Electroacupuncture*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Skin Ulcer / therapy*
  • Wound Healing*