Influence of bone union electrostimulation on corrosion of bone stabilizer in rabbits

Purpose: The aim of the work was determination of influence of the selected methods and parameters of bone union electrostimulation on corrosion of stainless steel implants coated with passive and passive-carbon layer. Design/methodology/approach: The semi-invasive and capacitively coupled electrical field methods of electrostimulation (without constant component) in rabbits were applied. The influence of electrostimulation on corrosion of implants was evaluated on the basis of the mass measurements and surface observations. Findings: On the basis of the research no corrosion on the implants stabilizing the bone fracture was observed. Research limitations/implications: Lack of visible and measurable corrosion requires the change of the methodology. Further research should be focused on the amount of metallic ions dissolved from the implants. Furthermore, it should be emphasized that the absence of corrosion of the electrostimulated implants is only one of many criteria describing the usefulness of electrostimulation parameters. The basic criterion is the biological effect obtained as the result of the electrostimulation. Practical implications: The obtained results are the basis for selection of methods and current parameters of the bone union electrostimulation in further clinical research. In case of positive results, the bone union electrostimulation with the use of implants coated with the passive and passive-carbon layers would be valuable method in treatment of pathological bone fractures. Originality/value: The paper is a continuation of the research on determining safe parameters of bone union electrostimulation of implants coated with the passive and passive-carbon layers.