Safety analysis of percutaneous needle electrolysis: a study of needle composition, morphology, and electrical resistance

• Published in: Acupuncture in medicine : journal of the British Medical Acupuncture Society 2021-10, Vol.39 (5), p.471-477
• Main Authors: Margalef, Ramón, Bosque, Marc, Minaya-Muñoz, Francisco, Valera-Garrido, Fermín, Santafe, Manel M
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Ablation; Acupuncture Therapy - instrumentation; Electric Impedance; Electroacupuncture; Electrolysis; Humans; Medical technology; Morphology; Musculoskeletal system; Needles - standards; Patient safety
• ISSN: 0964-5284; 1759-9873
• DOI: 10.1177/0964528420988007

Background: Percutaneous needle electrolysis (PNE) consists of a galvanic current combined with the insertion of a solid needle into the tissues of the musculoskeletal system. The application of a galvanic current through a needle can alter the morphology and composition during treatment application. This procedure may also provoke a localized temperature increase. Aim: The aim was to evaluate the safety of the PNE procedure by analyzing possible alterations of the needles employed. Methods: Physio Invasiva® and AguPunt EPI® brand needles, commonly used for the application of this technique, were analyzed in response to three different treatment protocols. Temperature changes were evaluated with the needles immersed in a test tube containing Ringer’s solution, and electrical resistance was evaluated with a multimeter. The morphology of the needles, pre- and post-treatment, was examined with a scanning electron microscope (FEI Quanta 600), and the composition of the needles was evaluated using RX diffusion with Oxford Instruments software. Results: Ringer’s solution contained in the test tubes examined did not present temperature changes. No changes were observed in the needles under investigation with respect to electrical resistance, morphology, or composition with a protocol applying 3-mA intensity for 3 s and three applications. However, important morphological alterations were observed that affected needle composition after 50 applications (at 3 mA for 3 s). Conclusion: PNE, applied according to conventional protocols, appeared to be safe and athermal, and did not provoke a loss of metal particles or modify the morphology of the needles used when studied in vitro.