The Effect of GSM Mobile Phone Electromagnetic Field on Femur Fracture Healing in a Rat Model

Aim: Biological effects of electromagnetic field (EMF) and their consequences on human health have been the subject of much interest and research in recent years. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of 900 MHz EMF on femur fracture healing in a rat model. Material and Method: After sixty male Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to a closed right femur fracture under anesthesia, the reduction and fixation were done with a 21 g needle. Then, 900 MHz radiation (2 W peak output power and 1.04 mW/cm2 power density) was applied to EM group for one hour/day for seven days. The healing was assessed using radiological (Lane and Sandhu classification), histological (Huo scale for callus evaluation), and biomechanical (3-point bending) measures at 2nd, 4th and 6th weeks after fracture. Results: Fracture healing, as assessed radiologically and histopathologically, in Group EM and control animals was similar at 2nd, 4th and 6th weeks. Fracture healing, as assessed biomechanically, was significantly better in Group EM compared to controls in those sacrificed at 2nd week post-procedure (p<0.05). Biomechanical strength was not different between the groups at 4th and 6th weeks. Discussion: 900 MHz EMF from a mobile phone in this rat femur fracture model resulted in no significant difference in healing from controls not exposed to EM radiation.