1. Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy Upon
Calvarial Organ Culture, A Handbook
David Sutter – Summer 2016
Background
Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF) is a novel approach to accelerated
bone healing through increased bone turnover. PEMF has been used clinically as a
supplement to long bone fracture healing and has been shown to reduce patient time in a
cast. In concept, electromagnetic forces are thought to play a similar role in bone healing
through the same principles as mechanical stress applications. When mechanical load is
applied to bone, a strain gradient develops. Subsequent pressure gradients in the
interstitial fluid drive fluid through the canaliculi from regions of high to low pressure
and expose osteocyte membranes to flow-related shear stress, as well as to electrical
potentials subsequent to the streaming process. Dr. Salih’s laboratory has reason to
believe that fluid shear stress is an ancillary initiate of bone remodeling, second to the
more powerful stimulate, electrical potentials. This is supported by their work in
piezocision and the use of a fluid shear incubation model. PEMF is a technology, which
induces a magnetic field onto a sample at a pulsed frequency. This pulse can be regulated
in Hertz. The magnetic field directly stimulates the cellular electrical potentials and
shortcuts any mechanical pressure needed to prompt bone turnover.
The dental application of PEMF is glaring as a non-invasive method to stimulate
bone turnover. While experiments still need to be completed to distinguish ideal
treatment lengths, pulsed frequencies, and magnetic field force, PEMF therapy during
orthodontic treatment via a mouth guard, similar to ‘Invisiline’, should be considered.