The Development and Application of Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields (PEMFs) for Ununited Fractures and Arthrodeses

Pulsed electromagnetic fields are highly effective (more than 90 per cent success) in treating ununited fractures, failed arthrodeses, and congenital pseudoarthroses in adults when used in conjunction with good management techniques. Union occurs because the weak electric currents induced in tissues by the time-varying fields bring about calcification of the fibrocartilage in the fracture gap, which sets the stage for the final phases of fracture healing by endochondral ossification.