Preliminary Study of the Effect of Pulsed Electromagnetic Field on Recovery from TPLO Surgery

Introduction: Pain control, increased limb use and rapid bone healing after tibial plateau levelling osteotomy (TPLO) may accelerate return to function. Pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy may reduce pain, inflammation and accelerate bone healing. We hypothesized that PEMF would reduce pain and accelerate weight bearing and bone healing in dogs undergoing TPLO.

Materials and Methods: Seven dogs with cranial cruciate ligament rupture were randomized to PEMF (n = 4) or sham (C) (n = 3) groups. Pulsed electromagnetic field dogs received four 15-minute daily treatments for 8 weeks, while an inactivated device was used in C. Peak vertical force was measured at a walk. Pain on palpation and Canine Brief Pain Inventory Scores were used to assess pain. Lameness scores were assessed using a 4-point scale. Radiographic bone healing was assessed. Measurements were made before surgery and 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks after surgery. Data were analysed using repeated measures analysis of variance.

Results: There were no significant differences in peak vertical force, lameness, pain on palpation or Canine Brief Pain Inventory. Dogs in the PEMF group had significantly improved bone healing on day 56 compared with the C group.

Discussion/Conclusion: Group sizes were small in this preliminary study, but information was obtained to help design future studies. Effects of PEMF on bone healing are particularly promising. Additional study of PEMF is warranted.

Acknowledgments:

Veterinary Orthopedic Laboratory, University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine

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Artikel online veröffentlicht:
01. Mai 2023