Electrical stimulation to promote the union of fractures.

The object of this study was to investigate the effect of electrical stimulation on recent fractures and in established nonunion, using an electrical stimulator of my own design. Fresh osteotomies of the fibula in rabbits were treated with a direct current of 20 microA; there was no reduction of healing time. Then, 62 patients with various types of nonunion, all of more than 9 months duration, were treated.

[The search for an "ideal" surgical dressing].

Trials of a new occlusive dressing, Op-site (Smith Nephew), were conducted on a group of patients. Op-site is a fine, transparent, elastic, self-adhesive polyurethan film. Although non-porous and therefore water- and bacteria-proof, it is permeable to gases.