Iontophoresis Flashcards
What is the principle behind iontophoresis?
An electrically charged electrode will repel a similarly charged ion causing the driving of medication into the skin
What are the names for the 2 electrodes?
Delivery/active/treatment pad
Dispersive/non-treatment/return pad
What does the delivery/active/treatment pad do?
Pushes medication
What does the dispersive/non-treatment/return pad do?
Closes the circuit
Where is the dispersive electrode usually placed?
Proximally and away from the site of injury. Usually 4-6 inches from drug electrode
Where should you not place electrodes?
On bony areas as this increases likelihood of burns
What is the depth of penetration for the electrode?
1.7 cm
How much medication can you deliver through the electrode?
2.0 cc
How much electricity can you deliver through the pad?
4.0 mA
What are indications for iontophoresis?
Bursitis Tendonitis Carpal tunnel syndrome Plantar fasciitis Arthritis Painful conditions When you need delivery of water-soluble ionic medication
Advantages of iontophoresis
Localized, low systemic effects
Avoids fear of needles
Non-invasive
Disadvantages of iontophoresis
Drugs must be ionized
Risk of burns, blisters, and skin irritation
How do you skin prep for iontophoresis?
Test skin for intact skin sensation
Using alcohol wipe, clean the skin of oils and dry skin
Do not shave, clip hair if necessary
What is the most comon dosage?
40 mA*mins
What does acetate do?
Assist in dissolving Ca+ deposits
What does lidocaine do?
Decreased local pain by blocking nerve impulse
What does dexamethasone do?
Decreases inflammation by inhibiting biosynthesis of prostaglandins and various other inflammatory substances
In how many treatments should improvements be noted?
In the first 2-3 treatments
What is the max amount of treatments?
6-8 treatments
What does research show that determines the depth of drug penetration?
Passive diffusion, not amplitude
Leaving the patch on after electrical delivery still…
promotes drug penetration
