Edoc - Pub - Pemf Clinicalstudies 1 PDF
Edoc - Pub - Pemf Clinicalstudies 1 PDF
Edoc - Pub - Pemf Clinicalstudies 1 PDF
an abstract on the
positive effects of published clinical
studies on health, illnesses and ailments
PULSE ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD THERAPY
THERAPY::
CLINICALLY PROVEN FOR OVER 20 YEARS TO HELP.
PULSE ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD THERAPY
THERAPY::
CLINICALLY PROVEN FOR OVER 20 YEARS TO HELP.
ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD EFFECT ON LIVING ORGANISMS
B. Kuzma
Kuzmanovic´
novic´:: Techni
echnical
cal College Zagreb,
Zagreb, Univer
University
sity of Zagreb
SUMMARY: This paper explains terms connected
SUMMARY: connected to the electric, magnetic and electromagnetic
electromagnetic field as well as the field effects
effects on living organisms. The
importance of the filed wave form is pointed out.
Introduction
The effect of electromagnetic field on organisms has become very important among scientists. The results of numerous researches deal with the sensitivity
of organisms to the electromagnetic fieldfield effect. The effects may be useful and harmful
harmful depending on the intensity and frequency of the field, the period of expo-
sure and the organism itself.
itself. Both effect seem to be very important for the human life and activity.
activity. There are different
different natural sources of electric,
electric, magnetic and
electromagnetic
electromagne tic fields on the earth which act on organisms. Besides, the man has created other sources of electromagnetic
electromagnetic fields in his environment which dif-
fer in their frequency and intensity.
A good knowledge of electromagnetic field
field effects on organisms is of considerable practical
practical importance. A complete understanding
understanding of electromagnetic field
effects on organisms helps in curing numerous illnesses as well as protecting from dangerous effects of electromagne
electromagnetic
tic fields.
Different interdisciplinary
interdisciplinary studies are required
required for this purpose today. It is quite certain that ecology is one of them because every day man creates electro-
magnetic fields of different
different intensity and frequencies whose concentrations
concentrations may be vary significant. In order to understand the phenomenon it is necessary to
know what is an electric, magnetic and electromagnetic
electromagnetic field and what is their influence.
influence.
1. Electric, magnetic and electromagnetic field
Too understand the fields
T fields it is necessary to begin with the electric
electric charge. An atom consists of a nucleus
nucleus and electrons that are
are in its orbit. Each electron pos-
sesses, a so-called negative charge and the nucleus is made up of protons and neutrons.
neutrons. Protons are positively charged
charged whereas neutrons have no net net charge.
Each atom contains an equal number of electrons and protons, but their polarity is different and in nature they appear as multiples of equal elementary charge.
Only the electrons in the outer orbit way be dislodged
dislodged when an external
external force acts on them. These electrons,
electrons, when conductors are
are concerned,
concerned, are loosely bound,
so we may say that conductors have so-called free electrons,
electrons, while insulators require
require a strong force which would make the electrons leave
leave its atom. In electrolytes,
atoms are piled in molecules where there are so-called free ions (positive and negative).
Since like electric charges repel and unlike attract, this repelling and attracting between two stationary charge is called Coulomb force. Around each electric
charge there is a specific
specific state which may
may be explained by the existence
existence of the electric field.
field. So, the electric charge (Q)
(Q) is the source of electric field
field (E), and the
fundamentall characteristic of the electric field is that it acts on the electric charge with the force (F = QE). The direction of the force depends on the direction
fundamenta
of the field
field and the sign of the charge.
charge. Electric field strength is measured in V/m. If the two charges are are in motion,
motion, however
however,, then there is, beside Coulomb
Coulomb
force, another force,
force, the electric as well as a magnetic
magnetic field round it. Since an electric current
current may be defined
defined as a continuous movement
movement of the charge, the fol-
lowing holds: when the current
current flows, a magnetic field of induction
induction B is created.
created. Magnetic induction
induction is measured
measured in Tesla
Tesla (T). Magnetic field
field of induction B
Acts only on the Charge in motion, the speed of the charge being v.
This force may be explained as follows: F = Q (v x B)
The direction of the force is perpendicular to the plane (vector direction of magnetic induction B and vector speed direction v). The force is the strongest
when vectors v and B are perpendicular and
and it is the weakest when vector directions overlap,
overlap, it equals zero. In the first case the charge
charge changes its direction
direction and
orbits around the magnetic induction
induction vector B, while there is no change in the second case.
Considering the preceding explanation it is possible to represent the amounts of the charge and the forces between them in a simplified way by means of
electric and magnetic field.
field. If the observed electric or magnetic field does not change with time, then it is considered to be an electrostatic and a magnetostat-
ic field, respectively
respectively.. A permanent magnet possesses
possesses a typical magnetostatic field. Both fields possess the energy whose space density
density is proportional to the square
intensity of the electric field.
field. Hence, there is a corresponding
corresponding energy in the above fields.
fields.
We have already noticed that charges in motion produce both electrical
We electrical and magnetic field. This action is transmitted through the space with a finite speed
like electromagnetic
electromagnetic field. Electromagnetic field
field in motion is called electromagnetic wave.
wave. By introducing the electromagnetic
electromagnetic field the unique explanation
explanation of
the force transmission is given.
Being influenced by the field,
field, the space is under tension, and this tension influences
influences the objects which the object meets. Tension is transmitted through space
with the finite speed which depends
depends on the time changes in the fields. The basic characteristic
characteristic of the electromagnetic field
field is that the time dependent magnet-
ic field induces an electric field,
field, and the electric field induces a magnetic field
field and that’s why they are closely connected. When an electromagnetic wave hits
the border between
between two different media (e.g.(e.g. air and organism), then the wave induces
induces polarization of the other medium, dipoles are created
created and current
current is
induced. In this way that other medium opposes electromagnetic field field by its polarization and induced currents.
Dipoles and induced currents
currents polarized in this way have got their magnetic field which is superimposed
superimposed to the outer one. The sum of both poles in the first
medium gives a reflected wave,
wave, and in the other tube is a refracted one (wave reflection and refraction).
refraction). As a consequence a tension is created
created in the other medi-
um as well on the very border between the two media. Compared to the electromagnetic
electromagnetic field, magnetostatic field passes
passes through living organisms without dif-
ficulty.. In so doing it produces magnetic polarization in the organism whose effects may be neglected
ficulty neglected and acts with a force only on ions which are in motion.
When electrostatic field reaches
reaches the human organism, it induces the separation of positive and negative charge, so that at the spot where it has entered, the
surface is negatively charged and
and on the spot where it leaves, there is positive charge. Since the organism is not a perfect conductor it is difficult to say that there
is no electrostatic field even after that short separation of charge. As the electrostatic field is a potential field it may disturb the electric
electric potential and the nor-
mal functioning of the organism.
Electromagnetic field
field acts on free ions in liquids in the h. organism and in this way it also acts on reaction kinetics and other chemical
chemical processes as well as
on molecule orientation
orientation and concentration.
concentration. In tissue and bones,
bones, however
however,, polarization occurs, so that additional tension is
is created whose oscillations
oscillations depend on
the electromagnetic field frequency
frequency and the amplitudes of these oscillations depend in the field amplitude. It is necessary to point out here that when natural
oscillation frequency in the human organism equals the field frequency,
frequency, so called resonance is created and very weak fields are required to maintain oscillations.
1
It is quite certain that in this way best effect are achieved. Increased field intensity results with greater tension in the organism which may lead to undesired
consequences. With the electromagnetic field penetration into the organism a certain amount of energy is brought into it and it equals the sum of electric and
magnetic field energy. A portion of this energy performs some work and this energy is converted into heat. This heat depends on field intensity square and fre-
quency. Having all this in mind it is evident that the choice of field intensity and the form of electromagnetic wave is of great importance.
2. Field wave form
Electrostatic and magnetic field does not depend on time, while electromagnetic field changes with time. This time field change determines the so-called
field wave form. These forms may be accidental and determined. Determined wave forms are mostly periodical and are repeated regularly after the time, T. In
practice periodical wave forms are mostly used and sine wave form is the simplest form (Fig. 1). Fundamental characteristics of periodic wave forms is the time
of their repetition, period T. The reciprocal value of period T is called frequency, f - 1/T, which relates to the number of impulses per second and is measured
in Hz.
2
PULSED MAGNETIC FIELD THERAPY - HOW DOES IT WORK?
An extract taken from a lecture delivered on 28th January, 1995
By Dr. D. C. Laycock Ph.D. (Med. Eng.); MBES; MIPEM*; B.Ed. (Hons) (Phys. Sciences); CGLI (Ind. Electronics); Consultant Clinical Engineer, Westville
Associates and Consultants (UK).
All living cells within the body possess potentials between the inner and outer membrane of the cell, which, under normal healthy circumstances, are fixed.
Different cells, e.g. Muscle cells and Nerve cells, have different potentials of about - 70 milli - Volts respectively. When cells are damaged, these potentials change
such that the balance across the membrane changes, causing the attraction of negative sodium ions into the cell and positive trace elements and proteins out of
the cell. The net result is that liquid is attracted into the interstitial area and swelling or oedema ensues. The application of pulsed magnetic fields has, through
research findings, been shown to help the body to restore normal potentials at an accelerated rate, thus aiding the healing of most wounds and reducing swelling
faster. The most effective frequencies found by researchers so far, are very low frequency pulses of a 50Hz base. These, if gradually increased to 25 pulses per
second for time periods of 600 seconds (10 minutes), condition the damaged tissue to aid the natural healing process.
Pain reduction is another area in which pulsed electromagnetic therapy has been shown to be very effective. Pain signals are transmitted along nerve cells to
pre-synaptic terminals. At these terminals, channels in the cell alter due to a movement of ions.The membrane potential changes, causing the release of a chem-
ical transmitter from a synaptic vesicle contained within the membrane. The pain signal is chemically transferred across the synaptic gap to chemical receptors
on the post synaptic nerve cell. This all happens in about one 2000th of a second, as the synaptic gap is only 20 to 50 nanometers wide (1 nanometer =
1/1000,000,000 of a meter). As the pain signal, in chemical form, approaches the post synaptic cell, the membrane changes and the signal is transferred. If we
look at the voltages across the synaptic membrane then, under no pain conditions, the level is about -70 milli-Volts. When the pain signal approaches, the mem-
brane potential increases to approximately +30 milli-Volts, allowing a sodium flow. This in turn triggers the synaptic vesicle to release the chemical transmitter
and so transfer the pain signal across the synaptic gap or cleft. After the transmission, the voltage reduces back to its normal quiescent level until the next pain
signal arrives.
The application of pulsed magnetism to painful sites causes the membrane to be lowered to a hyper-polarisation level of about -90 milli-Volts. When a pain
signal is detected, the voltage must now be raised to a relatively higher level in order to fire the synaptic vesicles.
Since the average change of potential required to reach the trigger voltage of nearly +30 milli-Volts is +100 milli-Volts, the required change is too great and
only +10 milli-Volts is attained., This voltage is generally too low to cause the synaptic vesicle to release the chemical transmitter and hence the pain signal is
blocked. The most effective frequencies that have been observed from research in order to cause the above changes to membrane potentials, are a base frequen-
cy of 200Hz and pulse rate settings of between 5 and 25Hz.
*Member of the Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine.
GOODBYE TO PAIN
New medical knowledge confirms that a combination of drugs and certain pulsed magnetic fields can result in sensational successes.
By Christian Wurstbauer.
Almost exactly 8 years ago, “DIE APOTHEKE” (“The Pharmacy”) reported on an - at that time - completely new type of physical therapy that used mag-
netic fields. Back then, the Viennese general practitioner, Dr. Andreas Kyriakoulis mainly treated patients afflicted with pain and achieved almost unbelievable
results.
“DIE APOTHEKE” wanted to find out from Dr. Kyriakoulis what has become of this therapy and what experiences the physician has been able to accu-
mulate during the intervening years.
Dr. Kyriakoulis in our original interview: “It has been clearly demonstrated during my practice of medicine and the treatment of innumerable patients that
a physical therapy with pulsating magnetic fields of extremely low frequency can achieve very good results, especially in patients suffering from pain that is asso-
ciated with a rheumatic disease. We often combine magnetic therapy with the requisite drugs. This potentiates their effectiveness and the time required for heal-
ing is significantly reduced.”
Magnetism Already Known in Ancient Times
The archetype of magnetism is already found in the ancient Eg yptian mysteries in which religious cult activity was closely associated with healing. Since
then, the healing power of magnetism, in one form or another, has appeared in almost every cultural epoch. It attained its zenith at the end of the 18th centu-
ry through Franz Anton Mesmer who claimed that is was his discovery. This is why magnetism is also often called Mesmerism. Despite spectacular successes,
this form of physical therapy is still associated with the occult, the secretive and even charlatanism. However, one must still reject the type of magnetism as pro-
posed by Mesmer, which cannot be examined scientifically, even today. The situation is completely different with the form of magnetic therapy that applies mag-
netic fields of varying intensity to the organism. This should, therefore, also more appropriately be called magnetic field therapy.
It has a long tradition. Already the famous physicians of ancient times, Hippocrates and Galen, used magnetic fields for healing purposes. Beginning at the
end of the 18th century, an entire series of famous physicians used this form of therapy. Most notably, this included Christian Hufeland who, in addition to
Goethe and Schiller, treated almost all the famous people of his day.
New Research Findings Justify the use of Magnetic Field Therapy
Today nearly 200 years later, science has become aware of the fact that relationships exist between magnetic fields and receptors found in the human body.
Therefore, it was natural for medical research to focus on magnetic field therapy. Today, it is possible to precisely dose the strength of a magnetic field. Using
the most modern examination methods, it is possible to follow the effect of these forces to the level of individual cells, even cellular components, in an organ-
ism. When reading the research results, the statement of the famous physicist and Nobel Prize laureate, Werner Heisenberg, spontaneously comes to mind:
3
“Magnetic energy is that elemental energy upon which all life in an organism depends.”
Dr. Kyriakoulis was the first Austrian physician to scientifically and practically investigate the type of especially short wave length, pulsating magnetic fields
and their effects on the human organism. The physician discovered that the best results could be achieved with slowly pulsating electromagnetic waves whose
strength was only slightly greater than that of the earth’s own magnetic field. This magnetic field has no side effects and is a congenial partner for use in drug
therapies.
According to Dr. Kyriakoulis: “Our magnetic field therapy is especially well-suited for the treatment of chronic pain associated with degenerative, rheumat-
ic diseases. It facilitates regeneration processes which have a positive effect on the cartilage and the synovial fluid. Circulation is stimulated, as are certain groups
of cells. The effect on the human immune system is especially important.”
The areas of application are numerous. Pain treatment (e.g., also including migraine headaches) has already been mentioned. It has been newly discovered
that magnetic field therapy can also attain nearly sensational successes in the treatment of psoriasis. In bone fractures and other injuries, the healing process can
be significantly accelerated.
Then Dr. Kyriakoulis mentions something that is very important: “The highest principle of this type of therapy recognizes that special indications exist for
its use. However, every treatment also involves the entire organism in the therapeutic process. Therefore, we are essentially dealing with a form of total body
treatment with a specific focus on a certain disease. This is important, because the effect of the pulsating magnetic fields significantly enhances the vitality of
the organism as a whole.
In light of this, an application in the field of geriatric medicine would also prove advantageous. The physician is convinced that all possible areas of applica-
tion for this form of physical therapy will not be known for a long time. He states: “Although the elimination of pain plays a central role in magnetic field ther-
apy, it would not be proper to attribute all positive treatment results solely to this phenomenon. By means of the diverse interactions that have been scientifi-
cally documented so far and especially through the direct effect exerted on the individual cells, magnetic field therapy affects all biological processes in an organ-
ism and stimulates its natural resistance. The many therapeutic possibilities that are made available to the physician with such a system can be seen in its regen-
erative, anti-inflammatory, circulation-promoting and spasmolytic effects.
I am convinced that several important effects are still unknown. Perhaps, it will be possible to prove that this therapy can also be used in the treatment of
cancer. However, this is certainly something that is still a long way off ”
Asked about his most important discovery during the past several years, Dr. Kyriakoulis states: “In light of the suffering that chronic pain patients have had
to endure, often for many years, it is certainly a great personal satisfaction for the treating physicians to possess a means, in the form of this therapy, with which
ne can both pleasantly and comfortably reduce the symptoms of his afflicted patients.”
Three Important Observations
Based on experiences collected over many years and the results obtained with a great number of treated patients, three striking observations can be formulated:
1. Especially long-lasting successes were achieved in the treatment of women with osteoporosis. This is possible due to the induction effect of magnetic field
therapy on the bone-forming cells (osteoblasts). The simultaneous use of certain drugs increases the success of therapy.
2. The possibilities for success are also similar in joint arthroses (spondylarthritis, gonarthrosis and omarthritis). Here too, therapy has a direct effect: on the
cartilage-forming cells and the cells of the joint capsule which produce the synovial fluid.
3. It is noticeable that patients are more at ease and calm after therapy. As previously mentioned, this may be attributed to the whole body therapy which
exerts a harmonizing effect on all body functions. In summation, it is clear that this type of modern physical therapy will have a bright future, not only in the
treatment of pain.
For those individuals who are interested, we can make available reports of test results and double-blind studies at the University of Graz.
4
On the other hand, however, appropriately controlled application of electromagnetic radiation may have beneficial effects on certain physiological processes
and can thus be used for therapeutic purposes.
Harmful biological effects of nonionising electromagnetic radiation
The mechanism of interaction of electromagnetic fields with organic matter can in general produce thermal and nonthermal effects. The thermal effects
results into temperature rise of the exposed tissue which may cause hazardous damage in certain parts of the human body. According to the “ion theory”
(Lazarev) the changes in the cells of the irradiated tissue occur due to periodic movement of ions. Their collision develops the heat which causes the coagula-
tion of the albumin. Another theory on cellular changes was set by Deboj and his colleagues (“dipole moment theory”). Both theories are equally recognized yet
neither explains in detail the various biological effects. According to Sebant, under the influence of radiowaves the molecular and cellular structure is being
changed. A quantum-biological effect has been observed that affects the response to stimulation of cells as well as the permeability and dimensions in the cell
structure (1,2).
The nonthermal effects include the effects that have been observed at low levels of electromagnetic energy below the intensities that produce significant heat-
ing. More frequent indispositions have been noticed amongst the workers exposed to radar beams, such as feebleness, chest pains, cardiovascular disturbances
and disturbances in sense organs. Changes in the electroencephalograms have also been reported as the effect of electromagnetic waves on brain ganglia, as well
as reduced sexual activity and spermatogenesis. Based on these observations and further investigations the nonthermal effects of electromagnetic radiation on
human body have been explained and confirmed scientifically. A Theory has been set and confirmed by the experts that in the tissue exposed to electromag-
netic field the electrical currents are induced causing the transfer of ions through the cell membranes, which can be hazardous at certain field intensities.
Nonthermal effects have been observed also in the hypothalamus in the form of stimuli in cell structure causing non-specific reactions in the organism.
The results of experiments on animals and the analysis of health state of persons occupationally exposed to electromagnetic radiation have proven that the
nonthermal effects of electromagnetic fields are hazardous to living organism.
Functional changes occur in nervous and cardiovascular system as well as in bone marrow and other parts of the human body (3, 4, 5). Long term exposure
of nervous system to low-level electromagnetic fields causes changes in the brain core. Amongst workers in television transmission stations and persons work-
ing near HF power generators a reduction of physiological reactions (difficulties in perception) has been observed at variations of field intensities between 10
to 20 V/m. The effects of this phenomenon were depression, decrease in attentiveness, and sleepiness. At the same time changes have been stated in reaction of
sense organs of smelling and seeing - increased adaptation time to darkness and higher perception of smelling, respectively.
Several reports of research being conducted for several years claim that the exposure may provoke the vegetative dystonia.
Changes in conditional reflexes have been registered as well. The disturbances in the activity of the cholinesterase in the blood enables early detection of
increased exposure to electromagnetic radiation.
In the central nervous system of a person working in ultra-shortwave electromagnetic field functional disturbances are likely to occur within a year.
Consequently, even a short time exposure to electromagnetic radiation can be considered dangerous (2).
Harmful influence of electromagnetic radiation on living tissue depends primarily on the frequency (wavelength) and density of the field, on the operating
condition of the radiation source, and the exposure time. The effects are intensified on higher frequencies and field densities. Further important factors are the
functional state and the sensibility of the exposed organism. The vascularization of the irradiated parts and the distance from the radiation source have to be
considered, too. The harmful effects are higher among female population.
The investigations have shown that the low-frequency (50 Hz) electromagnetic fields may cause harmful effects to human body, too. The results of the inves-
tigations revealed the hazards to the status and function of the central nervous system and to the cardiovascular system (changes in blood test specifications as
well as blood pressure and pulse changes). Table 1 presents the changes of blood pressure and pulse vs. nominal voltage of the HV devices (10).
TABLE 1 CHANGES OF BLOOD PRESSURE AND PULSE VS. NOMINAL VOLTAGE OF THE HV DEVISE
Indication in cardiovascular system Indication value Deviation from normal state vs. voltage (50 Hz)
220 kV 330 kV 500 kV
Max. arterial pressure >100 3.1% 6.8% 16.9%
< 100 4.7% 7.5% 8.88%
Min. arterial pressure > 60 6.3% 8.3% 20.1%
< 60 4.7% 6.0% 9.6%
Pulse > 60 7.9% 7.5% 23.3%
< 60 7.9% 7.5% 15.3%
6
The pulse of the magnetic flux produced by ELMAG MK75 is precisely controlled in order to meet the requirements set by medical experts on the basis of
experiments (9). The characteristic parameters of the pulse shape are kept within the following values (measured in the vicinity of the device):
• peak magnetic flux density Bt = 250 +/- 50 µT
• rise time tn = 10 +/- 1 µs
• pulse duration t = 55 +/- 5 µs
• frequency 2 to 24 Hz
As evident from figure 1 the magnetic flux density B reaches the maximum value of 250 µT
after 10 µs, stays at this value for 50 µs, then drops quickly to minimum value. This pulse shape
produces the required value of magnetic flux density per second (1 T/s) at a distance of 10 cm.
The frequency of the pulses can be adjusted in 16 steps. The curing effect of pulsating magnetic
field depends on the rise time of the pulse; this should be short for greater effect. In the case of
ELMAG magnetiser the rise time must not exceed 10 µs to achieve suitable effects.
Conclusion
The surveillance of nonionising electromagnetic radiation encountered in every-day life should
be established to protect humanbeings and other living organisms. Therefore relevant exposure
standards are being prepared for the nonionising electromagnetic radiation to complement the
existing regulations concerning the ionising radiation. systematic monitoring of radiation must be
Fig. 1) Pulse shape of the magnetic flux density generated conducted regularly on exposed places to assure safe and health environment. The potential harm-
by ELMAG MK75 mini magnetiser ful fields must be prevented, whereas the beneficial effects of controlled radiation should be
utilised under medical surveillance.
By Joze Gajsek
Institute of Quality Testing and Metrology
Ljubljana, 1990
REFERENCES
1. M.I. Jakovljeva, “Fiziologickle mehanizmi deistvija electromagnetnih polji”, Lenjingrad 1973
2. S Milicevic, “Dejstvo radio talasa na organizam coveka i mere zastite”, Ergonomija 5/1978
3. J.A. Holodov, “Vlijanie elektromagnetnovo i magnetnovo polei na centralnuju nervnuju sistemu”, Moskow 1966
4. D.B. Karpova, V. E. Kovsilo,“Spravocnik po gigiene trude”, Medicina, Lenjingrad 1976
5. S. Modic, M. Slajmer “Analiza i pocena radnjh mesta eksponiranih zracenjima”, 1980
6. C. Polk, Eliot Postow, “Handbook of biological effects of electromagnetic fields” CRC Press BOCA RATON, Florida 1986
7. J. Gajsek, “Neionizirna skodljiva elektromagnetna sevanja”, Elektrotehniski vestnik No. 4, 1983
8. N. Krause, “Grenzwerte fur Exposition von Personen durch elektromagnetische Felder, Frequenzbereich 0 - 3000 GHz”, X. Scientific Conference on
Electropathology, Freiburg, 1986
9. J. Gajsek, “Tehniske karakteristike in meritve NEMS aparata ELMAG MK 75” , Seminar elektrobioloska indukeija osteogeneze, Novi Sad 1989
10. J. Velickovic, “Fizicke stelnosti elektromagnetskog zracenja”, Institut za dokumentaciju zastite na radu, Nis 1978
11. J.H. Bernhardt, “Hochfrequenzfelder”, Tagungsband - Nichtionisierende Strahlung, Koln 1988
Membrane
Transmitter - 55......................................................................
-70...........................................................................................
Synaptic Cleft
(2a) (2b)
In the year 1990 490 cases or patients with acute hand injuries have been treated in our Departments. There were 170 cases with flexor lesions, 132 cases with exten-
sor lesions and 84 cases with damage in dorsal hand aponeurosis.
All of these lesions are complex, what means that were musculoskeletal - vascular - nerve system compound damages. Because of this we were made primary wound
closure in 81 cases, in 81 cases we covered the wound with free skin transplants, in 56 cases local skin grafts and in 16 cases we covered the wound with distant skin
grafts.
In the maintenance of these severe injuries we sewed digital nerve in 72 cases (neuroraphia), in 9 cases we sewed medial nerve, in 9 cases neuroraphia of ulnar nerve,
in 5 cases we made neuroraphiam of radial nerve.
In 68 cases of bone fracture lesion we fixed them with Kirschner’s wire or with screws, 23 fractures were fixed with periostal sutures or with spongio-plastics.
In pooperative treatment all of patients have complex rehabilitation program. They were treated with kynesitMerapeutic exercises, magnetotherapy (small pocket gen-
erator Elmag), electrotherapy and application of dynamic hand supports.
The achievements of this complex physical therapy was better range of motion, returnity of lost function and less phenomens of Sudeck’s dystrophy.
9
MAGNET FIELD THERAPY IN THE MANAGEMENT OF BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERTROPHY
2001
27th General Meeting of the Austrian Urological Society and the Bavarian Association of Urologists Graz May 10-12, 2001
Prof. P.U. Petritsch, M.D.
Landeskrankenhaus Graz
Universitatsklinik fur Urologie
Auenbruggerplatz 7
A-8036 GRAZ, Austria
Call for Papers Deadline: 1-15-2001
Topic Open Topic Paper Poster
Presenter: I. Bizjak
Coauthors: J. Barovic, · G. Fischer, ·· W. Kobinger ··
Institution: Celje Hosp., Maribor Hosp., · Institut fur Hygiene, KFU Graz··
Address: AKH Celje, St 3000 Celje, Slovenia
Tel.: 0316/380/4365 Fax: 0316/380/9650 E-mail:
The aim of the multicenter study presented here was to test how far the positive results from the application of electromagnetic fields that have been found
by several other medical specialties can be documented in urology also. 27 patients with benign prostatic hypertrophy exclusively were treated during bedtime
(about 8 hours) with a battery-operated, miniaturized (1. x w. x h. = 5 x 3 x 1 cm) magnetic field generator - the Prostameg from the Poznick Co., Celje.
Exposure Conditions: B/device = 7.9 µT, impulse frequency; 19.5 Hz, square wave signal.
Device Placement: in the underwear, as close as possible to the prostate.
Study population with mean age of 63.6 years (range: 48.7 - 79.6) was randomized for the single-blind trial to a treatment group (n1 = 17) or placebo group
n2 = 10). At baseline and upon completion of the study the mean and maximum urine flow, PSA values, and prostate size were measured on ultrasound. In addi-
tion, as a survey of subjective experiences, the patients filled out the internationally known IPSS (*International prostate symptom Score) questionnaire designed
to assess the symptoms of benign prostatic hypertrophy. No participant reported any worsening, or the occurrence of any other problems during or after treat-
ment.
The statistically most significant result for the treatment group consists of a highly significant (P=0.0005) improvement in subjective symptom evaluation.
By the end of the trial, prostate size in the field-treated group had decreased on the statistical curve by 12% (P=0.09) from 30.4 to 26.9 cm3. No other meas-
urable medical events within the treatment group were noted. However, on the current analysis no statistically relevant differences could be determined between
the treatment and placebo data by reason of the small population size (strictness of the exclusion criteria).
Because of the promise of these findings, plans were made for development of a wider follow-up study. Meanwhile, this kind of magnetic field therapy should
be regarded by a greater number of doctors as a form of adjuvant treatment at least.
Over
IPSS - International Prostate Score, which is similar to the American Urological Association (AUA) Symptom Index.
11
We have been treating several hundreds of patients with peripheral facial palsy with ELMAG-S in our hospital. ELMAG-S is a high frequency electro-
magnetic stimulator (high frequency pulsating electromagnetic field). We have performed a complete EMNG analysis at 15 adult patients (age 18-50, both male
and female) with peripheral facial nerve palsy. They have all been treated without success with other methods and showed no significant improvement after 1-
2 months. (Other methods include: lidocaine injections, corticoids, polyvitamins etc.) We have performed detection EMG analysis at all examined patients,
measuring motor conduction velocity on both sides, and R1 response latencies. We have measured the amplitude, duration, and distal latency of M response,
and determined latency of R1 response. M Response was registered in zygomatic muscle using Disa’s concentric needle electrode. We have been using superfi-
cial electrodes for registration of R1 response in m. orbicularis oculi while stimulating m. supraorbitalis. EMNG recording has been analyzed before the begin-
ning of treatment with ELMAG-S and fourteen and twenty eight days after the treatment has commenced. It was repeated at some patients after 45 and 60
days. Comparation of amplitudes of M response on healthy and affected side has shown no prognostic value. We have also performed audiometry, tympanom-
etry and X-ray of mastoids by Stenvers at all patients. Each patient has been photographed and a video recording of some patients has been performed.
The patients have been using ELMAG-S for a period of three week to one month, depending on the clinical finding and EMNG recording. The device has
been applied twice a day for one hour using frequency of 40 cycles. We have recorded improvement at each consecutive EMNG recording an all patients. Motor
conduction velocity showed significant improvement within the average period of 28 days. It is also important to stress out that the clinical improvement has
not directly been followed by the improvement in EMNG recording.
KEYWORDS: n. facialis, ELMAG-S, EMNG
12
The range of applications has covered:
Treatment of vascular disorders (Steinberg 1964) Reduction of inflammation and oedema (Golden et al 1980)
Enhancement of the rate of healing in skin grafts (Golden et al 1981) Reduction of pain (Warnke 1983)
Treatment of neuropathy (Lau) Nerve regeneration (Hayne)
Reduction in symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis (Guseo 1987)
Research into these and other areas have shown good rates of success, with no detrimental side effects. For optimum results, low-frequency sustained pulsed
magnetic fields should be applied, with specific problems responding best to specific frequencies. For example, pain can be blocked using a base frequency of
200 Hz as this brings about hyperpolarisation of nerve cells and inhibits transmission of pain signals. For wound healing, a base frequency of 50Hz is most effec-
tive, with a pulse rate of 17.5Hz.
13
THE EFFECT OF PULSED AND SINUSOIDAL MAGNETIC FIELDS
ON THE MORPHOLOGY OF DEVELOPING CHICK EMBRYOS
AU: Farrell-JM; Litovitz-TL; Penafiel-M; Montrose-CJ; Doinov-P; Barber-M; Brown-KM; Litovitz-TA
AD: Vitreous State Laboratory, Catholic University of America, Washington, DC 20064, USA
SO: Bioelectromagnetics, 1997; 18(6): 431-8
AB: Several investigators have reported robust, statistically significant results that indicated that weak (approximately 1 microT) magnetic fields (MFs)
increase the rate of morphological abnormalities in chick embryos. However, other investigators have reported that weak MFs do not appear to affect embryo
morphology at all. We present the results of experiments conducted over five years in five distinct campaigns spanning several months each. In four of the cam-
paigns, exposure was to a pulsed magnetic field (PMF); and in the final campaign, exposure was to a 60 Hz sinusoidal magnetic field (MF).
A total of over 2500 White Leghorn chick embryos were examined. When the results of the campaigns were analyzed separately, a range of responses was
observed. Four campaigns (three PMF campaigns and one 60 Hz campaign) exhibited statistically significant increases (P> or = 0.001) ranging from 2-fold to
7-fold, in the abnormality rate in MF-exposed embryos. In the remaining PMF campaign, there was only a slight (roughly 50%), statistically insignificant (P =
0.2) increase in the abnormality rate due to MF exposre. When the morphological abnormality rate of all of the PMF-exposed embryos was compared to that
of all of the corresponding control embryos, a statistically significant (P> or = 0.001) result was obtained, indicating that PMF exposure approximately doubled
the abnormality rate. Like-wise, when the abnormality rate of the sinusoid-exposed embryos was compared to the corresponding control embryos, the abnor-
mality rate was increased (approximately tripled). This robust result indicates that weak EMFs can induce morphological abnormalities in developing chick
embryos. We have attempted to analyze some of the confounding factors that may have contributed to the lack of response in one of the campaigns. The genet-
ic composition of the breeding stock was altered by the breeder before the start of the nonresponding campaign. We hypothesize that the genetic composition
of the breeding stock determines the susceptibility of any given flock to EMF-induced abnormalities and therefore could represent a confounding factor in stud-
ies of EMF-induced bioeffects in chick embryos.
16
PEMF MAY REDUCE DEPRESSION FOLLOWING TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY
Baker-Price-Persinger
Department of psychology, Laurentian University, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada
Percept Mot Skills 1996 Oct, Vol 83 (2), P: 491-8, ISSN: 0031-5125
AB: Many patient who display psychological depression following a traumatic brain injury do not respond completely to antidepressant drugs. There was a
significant improvement of depression and reduction of phobias while physical symptoms and other complaints were not changed.
17
EFFECT OF PULSED ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS ON
BONE FORMATION AND BONE LOSS DURING LIMB LENGTHENING
AU: Eyres-KS; Saleh-M; Kanis-JA
AD: WHO Collaborating Ctr Metab Bone Dis, University of Sheffield, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield S10 2RX, United Kingdom
SO: Bone, 18/6 (505-509) 1996
CP: United-States
LA: English
AB: We examined the effect of pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMFs) on bone formation and disuse osteoporosis sustained during limb lengthening in a
double-blind study. Seven males (mean age 13 years, range 11-19 years) and six females (mean age 12 years, range 9-19 years) were randomly allocated to receive
either an active or an inactive PEMF coil. Limb lengthening was performed by the Villarubbias technique using either a unilateral or circular frame system.
Sequential bone density measurements were made using dual energy X-ray absorptiometry and compared to traditional radiographs. Ten segments (eight tibial
and two femoral) in seven patients were lengthened under the influence of active coils and eight segments (six tibial and two femoral) in six patients using inac-
tive coils. There was no difference in the rate nor the amount of new bone formed at the site of distraction between the two groups. Bone loss in the segments
of bone distal to the lengthening sites was observed in both groups but was significantly more marked using inactive coils (BMD reduced by 23% n SEM 3%
and 33% n 4% control values after one and two months respectively; p < 0.0001) than using active coils (BMD reduced by 10% n 2% at 2 months). These dif-
ferences were greater at 12 months after surgery (reduced by 54% n 5% and 13% n 4% respectively; p < 0.0001). Stimulation with pulsed electromagnetic fields
has no effect on the regenerated bone, but does prevent bone loss adjacent to the distraction gap.
18
TREATMENT OF DELAYED UNIONS AND NONUNIONS OF THE PROXIMAL
FIFTH METATARSAL WITH PULSED ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS
AU: Holmes-GB Jr
AD: University Orthopaedics, 800 South Wells Street, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
SO: Foot-Angle-Int. 15/10 (552-556) 1994
LS: English
AB: Nine delayed unions and nonunion of the proximal fifth metatarsal were treated with pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF). All fractures healed in a
mean time of 4 months (range 2-8 months). Those fractures treated with both pulsed electromagnetic fields and a nonweightbearing cast healed in a mean time
of 3 months (range 2-4 months). The average duration of follow-up was 39 months (range 24-60 months). There were no refractures. When compared with
reported healing times and morbidity for conventional casting, medullary curettage with inlay bone, and closed axial intramedullary screw fixation, pulsed elec-
tromagnetic fields provided an effective alternative for the treatment of delayed unions and nonunion of the proximal fifth metatarsal.
19
reducing pain and muscle weakness of the knee extensor muscles in patients during the first 6 weeks after reconstructive surgery of the anterior cruciate liga-
ment (ACL). Seventeen patients receiving ACL reconstructive surgery participated as a control group (N=3), as an NMES group (N=7), and with combined
NMES and magnetic field stimulation (NMES/PEMF) (N=7). Patients receiving NMES/PEMF rated each type of stimulation for perceived pain and were
measured for their torque. Torque results revealed a mean decrease of 13.1% for NMES/PEMF patients. The mean percent of thigh girth decreased 8.3% for
controls, 0.5% for NMES and 2.3% for NMES/PEMF patients. The NMES/PEMF patients rated NMES as causing about twice the pain intensity as
NMES/PEMF during treatment. As a result of this data, the authors concluded that both NMES and NMES/PEMF are effective in reducing girth loss and
that NMES/PEMF is less painful than NMES alone in treating patients after ACL reconstruction.
21
EFFECTS ON PEMF ON FRESH FRACTURE-HEALING IN RAT TIBIA.
AU: Sarker-AB; Nashimuddin-AN; Islam-KM; Rabbani-KS; Rahman-M; Mushin-AU; Hussain-M
AD: Department of Pathology, Okayama University Medical School, Japan
SO: Bangladesh-Med-Res-Counc-Bull. 1993 Dec; 19 (3) : 103-12
AB: The present experiment was designed to find out whether PEMF can act as a healing agent on induced fracture of rat tibia. Eighty rats were taken for
this experiment. Under general anaesthesia mid-shaft of tibia and fibula of all rats were osteotomied, Intramedullary nailing was done for proper alignment of
the fractured fragments. The animals were then divided into two groups: group-1 and group-11. Each group contained forty animals. Out of these forty ani-
mals twenty were treated as experimental and twenty as control. From the third day of osteotomy, PEMF was applied to experimental rats around the osteoto-
my sites for a period of nine hours a day. PEMF was not applied to the control rats. The animals of group-1 and group-11 were sacrificed after applied one
week and three weeks of PEMF, respectively. Radiological and microscopical examination of the callus were performed. Gross and microscopic measurements
of the callus were statistically analysed. The growth of callus was taken as a criterion of fracture healing. The results of the present experiment revealed signifi-
cant enhancement of fracture healing. The results of the present experiment revealed significant enhancement of fracture healing in group-1. The results of the
radiological evaluation of group-11 experimental animals were also consistent with the morphological analysis. It was concluded that healing of fractured rat
tibia was enhanced by the application of PEMF and this effect of PEMF was more pronounced at the end of third week.
22
EFFECT OF A PULSING ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD ON DEMINERALIZED BONE-MATRIX-INDUCED
BONE FORMATION IN A BONY DEFECT IN THE PREMAXILLA OF RATS.
AU: Takano-Yamamoto-T; Kawakami-M; Skuda-M
AD: Department of Orthodontics, Osaka University, Faculty of Dentistry, Japan
SO: J-Dent-Res. 1992 Dec; 71(12): 1920-5
AB: A 2-mm non-healing bony defect was prepared in the premaxilla of male Wistar rats weighing about 180 g as a simulation of an alveolar cleft, for deter-
mination of whether a pulsing electromagnetic field (PEMF) could promote regeneration of bone induced by demineralized bone matrix (DBM). The defect
was either treated with 7 mg DBM or was left as a non-grafted control. The rats were exposed to a PEMF with a frequency of 100 Hz, a 10-ms-wide burst
with 100 microseconds-wide quasi-rectangular pulses, repeating at 15 Hz, and magnetic field strength of 1.5-1.8 G. Alkaline Phosphatase activity increased sig-
nificantly from day 7 in the DBM-graft-plus-PEMF group and from day 10 in the DBM-graft group, reaching a maximum on day 14. A greater-than-two-
fold rise in alkaline phosphatase activity and a three-fold rise in the amount of 45Ca incorporation in the DBM-graft-plus-PEMF group were attained com-
pared with those of the DBM-graft group. The DBM-graft-plus-PEMF group produced more bone with almost complete osseous bridging in the defect sites
than did the group treated with DBM only on day 35. The findings indicate that PEMF had an enhancing effect on the bone-inductive properties of the DBM
through the stimulation of osteoblast differentiation induced by DBM.
24
Patient No. Symptom No. Physician’s Final Diagnosis Sex Age (years) Success Dole Scale (Beg. minus End)
1 1 omarthritis f 73 v. g. 8
2 2 lupus crythematosus f 29 v. g. 7
3 3 fracture of lower leg, delayed m 36 g. 7
callus formation
4 4 omarthritis + injury of rotator cuff m 50 0 1
5 5 chronic cervical syndrome with a m 50 v. g. 9
protruding intervertebral disc C 4-6
6 6 omarthritis m 59 v. g. 8
7 7 post-inflammatory Sudeck’s f 33 sat. 5
syndrome (left midfoot)
8 8 chronic cervical syndrome m 62 v. g. (obj.) 8
(after several intervertebral disc g. (subj.)
operations)
9 9 omarthritis f 74 v. g. 9
10 10 epicondylitis (right humeroulnar f 52 v. g. 9
joint)
11 11 epicondylitis radialis (tennis elbow) m 52 v. g. 10
12 12 primary chronic polyarthritis f 44 0 0
(fingers, hand and knee joints)
13 13 femoropatellar chondropathy on the f 66 v. g. 8
right (damaged cartilage: patella and
head of the femur)
14 14 degenerative omarthritis f 58 v.g.(obj) g.(subj) 8
15 15 gonarthrosis, left side m 57 g. 9
16 16 postraumatic gonarthrosis m 51 g. 8
16 17 epicondylitis radialis (tennis elbow) m 51 v. g. 9
Fig. 1: Summarized results according to the diagnosis of the treating physician (v. g. = very good; g. = good; sta. = satisfactory; 0 = unsuccessful)
patient and the improvements as noted after the physician’s examination failed to agree in only two cases, more refined differences within the individual diag-
noses could not be separately evaluated on a statistical basis. In the applicable biometric methods, the classification once again had to be reduced to the two cat-
egories: “improved” or “not improved.”
“Improved”
a. Very good therapeutic success: omarthritis (3 cases), lupus erythematosus, chronic cervical syndrome, epicondylitis rad.
b. Good therapeutic success: gonarthrosis (2 cases), frature of the lower leg
c. Satisfactory therapeutic success: Sudeck’s syndrome
“Not Improved”
d. Unsuccessful therapy: omarthritis, primary chronic polyarthritis (PCP) with relapses
Figure 2: Summarized original classifications of therapeutic success according to the physician.
Evaluated according to the rpeviously mentioned guidelines, the following results (See Figure 2) were obtained for the application of pulsating magnetic
fields to diseases of the musculoskeletal system. Figure 3 shows the statistical evaluations of magnetic field therapy.
Discussion and Conclusions
On the basis of this report which used relatively small collective of patients afflicted with diseases of the musculoskel system, it was documented, consistent
with internationally available litature, that “magnetic field therapy” (with its parameters of curve form, pulse repetition frequency, field strength, daily or total
duration of application) can at least play a role as a form adjuvant treatment. Furthermore, as confirmed in individual cases, it can even be successfully used as
the sole methodof pain therapy. Because of its lack of any side effects, this latter property currently is of increased importance, especially with respect to any
form of drug intolerance that may be present.
Naturally, the compliance of the participants could not be checked by the physician in each individual case. Despite this limitation, the results are incourag-
ing and permit one to draw the conclusion that further research in the field of magnetic field treatment with “weak” fields of already evaluated frequencies or
other possibly therapeutic frequencies for the benefit of all is welcome and should be supported. However, the unsupervised, self-administration of this type of
treatment is to be discouraged. Optimal therapeutic successes can only be expected while under the care of appropriately experienced physicians.
In the future, physicians plan on making additional patient questionnaires available so the analyses can be conducted separated according to sex, identical fre-
quencies or individual specific diseases.
25