Does preoperative electrical stimulation of the skin alter the healing process?

[BACKGROUND] In vitro studies have demonstrated that electrical current may affect fibroblast proliferation and synthesis of collagen fibers. In humans, the application of electrical current by positioning the positive electrode on skin wounds resulted in thinner hypertrophic scars. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of preoperative electrical stimulation on cutaneous wound healing in rats.

[MATERIALS AND METHODS] Forty rats were divided into two groups of 20 animals each. In the control group, an incision was made on the back of the animals. In the stimulation group, a preoperative electrical stimulation was applied using a rectangular pulse current at a frequency of 7.7 Hz, and intensity of 8 mA, for 30 min, with the positive electrode placed on the back of the animal, and the negative electrode placed on the abdominal wall. Following, an incision was made on their back. Biopsy was carried out on postoperative day 7 and 14, and histologic analysis was performed.

[RESULTS] The number of newly formed vessels, fibroblasts, and type III collagen fibers in the stimulation group on postoperative day 7 were greater than those in the control group.

[CONCLUSIONS] Preoperative positive-polarity electrical stimulation positively affects angiogenesis and fibroblast proliferation.