Changes in electrical properties of bones as a diagnostic tool for measurement of fracture healing

Introduction In fractures, electrical properties are generated by the piezoelectric effect and cellular activity, initiate and augment healing. Monitoring these can result in the development a diagnostic tool for diagnosing delayed and early non-union of bones and may enable the clinician to change the line of treatment for decreasing the suffering time of the patient. This article summarizes 12 studies related to the electrical properties of bones for the monitoring of fracture healing. Materials and methods This experience has been used to develop a methodology comprising insulated fixators and measurement of electrical properties by an LCR (inductance, resistance and capacitance) meter at King George’s Medical University (KGMU). Inductance, conductance and impedance of the fractured and normal segments of fractured human tibia were monitored. Results Prospective data analysis was performed; this showed large variances. The patients were then stratified into two groups: (i) delayed union and (ii) normal union in a blinded manner. Analysis of data ensuring blinding was done separately. Conclusion Electrical properties are highly dependent on bone mineral density, temperature, structure and cross-sectional area of the bone. Skin and soft tissue are responsible for masking the electrical signals from bones measured in vivo. Therefore, at KGMU, insulated fixators were designed to prevent short circuit by rods and enable measurement from nothing else but the bone. Electrical properties of bones, can be used as a biomarker for monitoring fracture healing.