Electrotherapy - Specialists and Information

The procedure, named after Luigi Galvani, was further developed by Dr. Rudolf Pekar and Dr. Björn Nordenstrøm. In the 1970s, Dr. Björn Nordenstrøm of Stockholm discovered unusual structures on X-ray images. He analyzed them and discovered that these structures were caused by electrochemical and electrical phenomena. He subsequently developed a system based on electric fields for use in cancer therapy. At the same time, Dr. Rudolf Pekar in Austria was also working on this form of therapy and applied it to various types of cancer.

Every cell in the body has a cell membrane that serves a protective and enveloping function. The cell membrane can withstand a voltage between 80 and 100 millivolts (mV). In the event of disease or degeneration (e.g., due to a lack of nutrients or oxygen), the membrane’s potential drops below 20 mV.

Due to this loss of potential, the conductivity of a cancer cell, for example, is much higher than that of a healthy cell. This is precisely where galvanotherapy comes into play, as it operates at a current of 30 to 80 milliamps (mA). To do this, doctors place special electrodes directly on the skin over the tumor. This shrinks the tumor without damaging healthy cells.

Galvanotherapy is usually performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia. Depending on the size of the tumor, doctors may need two or more electrodes. These electrodes are shaped like thin needles. They are then inserted through the skin directly into the tumor.

During the therapy, the patient feels a slight tingling sensation or mild pressure pain. The treatment is always kept below the pain threshold. The direct current used induces pain relief in the tissue that lasts for a very long time. The patient remains pain-free even after the treatment.

The medical device used in galvanotherapy consists of a programmable direct current source. It is controlled by a computer that records the entire course of therapy. Optionally, doctors can treat two different areas of the body simultaneously using two groups of electrodes that can be controlled independently.

Although the destruction of cancerous tissue triggers an inflammatory reaction, this subsides after a few days. The cancerous tissue is broken down naturally through increased activity of phagocytes. Subsequently, scar tissue replaces the cancerous tissue. Electrochemical tumor therapy is a complementary treatment to radiation therapy and surgical procedures.

Galvanotherapy is suitable for localized tumors in the breast, head and neck, cervix, colon, liver, pancreas, skin, and lungs @ Dr_Microbe /AdobeStock

During treatment, the patient lies on a treatment table, and the direct current destroys the tissue through electrolysis. Due to ion migration, the pH value in the tissue shifts significantly. An alkaline environment then develops at the cathode, while the pH at the anode becomes acidic. In addition, the direct current alters the membrane potentials in and around the cell. This disrupts important physiological functions.

At the cathode, the blood vessels dilate, while at the anode, dehydration occurs. This results in anti-inflammatory effects and pain relief. The therapy is painless, and the body rejects the tumor tissue after a few weeks. 

Elimination occurs via metabolism, or the tissue moves to the body’s surface in an encapsulated form. To enhance the effect, experts recommend a combination of vital substance, mineral, and vitamin infusions.

Compared to other forms of therapy, this treatment has relatively few side effects. 

Known side effects include:

• Ulcerations (sore, open sores)
• Necrosis
• Skin rashes with blistering
• Local pain, such as a burning or tingling sensation

Muscle cramps due to prolonged bed rest, sensory disturbances, discomfort, or dizziness occur rather rarely.

Galvanotherapy is not suitable if the body contains electronic components or metal parts (prostheses, pacemakers, metal plates).

Galvanotherapy is also not recommended for patients suffering from severe heart disease, cardiac arrhythmias, or epileptic seizures. 

Galvanotherapy is also unsuitable during:

• breastfeeding or pregnancy
• mental health conditions
• kidney disease, and
• active autoimmune diseases
• Furthermore, treatment must not be administered in cases of drug or alcohol dependence.

The success and duration of galvanotherapy always depend on the location, nature, and size of the tumor. To treat skin cancer, doctors usually require one to two sessions. If the tumor is deeper, up to ten sessions may be necessary. These sessions then take place once or twice a week.