Electrical stimulation in chronic wounds and pressure ulcers: a narrative review

The management of chronic wounds and pressure ulcers remains a significant challenge in surgery. Numerous topical treatment options are available; however, they have certain limitations. This review assessed the efficacy of electrical stimulation in patients with chronic wounds and pressure ulcers based on published data. A search of relevant publications was conducted in the PubMed, eLIBRARY.RU, and Scopus databases. Electric current has long been used in medicine to promote healing in various types of wounds. This review addresses the fundamental mechanisms of electrical stimulation for wound healing, as well as the existing electrical stimulation therapy options and their advantages. Furthermore, the review assesses the efficacy of this modality, including in combination with other physical therapies. The findings indicate that electrical stimulation of chronic wounds and pressure ulcers significantly improves the healing of complicated wounds. Innovative electrical stimulation devices demonstrate promising clinical outcomes. Electrical stimulation therapy is most effective when combined with other physical or pharmaceutical therapeutic approaches.