A Faldini

Effect of Stimulation by Low-Frequency Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields in Subjects with Fracture of the Femoral Neck

Low-frequency pulsed electromagnetic fields (hereafter PEMFs) have now been in use in orthopaedics and traumatology for upwards of twenty years. The technique is employed to promote osteogenesis and hence to favour bone repair proc esses1–4. It has recently been shown that PEMFs may be the treatment of choice in avascular necrosis of the femoral head. The treatment has emerged as especially effective in the earliest forms in the staging according to Ficat5.

1989–1999. Ten years of low-invasive techniques for the treatment of lumbar disk herniation: a critical review of 80 monitored cases

Abstract Low invasive techniques for the treatment of lumbar disk herniation are still a subject of debate and interest in the field of vertebral surgery. We present a critical review of 80 cases of percutaneous nucleotomy performed from 1989 to 1999 at the First Orthopaedic Clinic in Pisa. The analysis of the results confirms the usefulness of this method for lumbar disk hernias in young patients who precisely meet the indications for surgery. Furthermore, automised percutaneous nucleotomy did not provoke collapses in the intervertebral space or instability in the functional units following the emptying of the nucleus. Post-operative magnetic resonance imaging revealed, in all cases, the creation of a discal scar.