The Effect of Combined Ultrasound and Electric Field Stimulation on Wound Healing in Chronic Ulcerations

Introduction: Ultrasound and electric stimulation are known therapies for the treatment of chronic ulcerations. Combined modulated ultrasound and electric field stimulation (CUSEFS) have never been studied as a single modality. The authors evaluate the results of CUSEFS (BRH Medical Ltd, Jerusalem, Israel) on a variety of wound types in a number of clinics.

Methods: This retrospective analysis looked at ulcers treated with CUSEFS in 4 clinics. Wounds were evaluated by an independent assessor and data was evaluated by an independent statistician. Of the 300 wounds treated with the CUSEFS device, only those classified as diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) or venous leg ulcers (VLUs) were evaluated. A treatment was deemed successful if the wound was 50% closed within 4 weeks. Subjects were then followed to see if their wounds completely closed within 16 weeks.

Results: Of the 27 DFUs treated, 59.3% (16) achieved 50% closure within 4 weeks. Of the 38 VLUs treated, 71.1% (27) achieved 50% closure within 4 weeks. It was found that variables such as gender, size of the wound at presentation, and longevity of the wound had no bearing on the outcome. The age of the patient had an effect on the outcome of the VLUs. The wound healing trajectory was supported in that there was a significant difference in the achievement of total closure between those subjects who had a successful trial and those who did not.

Conclusion: Combined modulated ultrasound and electric field stimulation has a place as adjunct therapy that aids wound healing and provides an effective noninvasive treatment option.