Which modality uses a monophasic pulsed high-voltage waveform to treat edema and wounds?

• A. TENS
• B. NMES
• C. HVPC
• D. IFC

Answer: (C)

High-voltage pulsed current uses a monophasic waveform delivered as short, high-amplitude pulses. This unidirectional, pulsed approach is especially effective for edema reduction and wound healing because the strong but brief electrical field promotes fluid movement through improved vasomotor and lymphatic activity, helping to move edema away from the affected area. In wound healing, the electrical field influences cellular behavior at the wound site, attracting healing cells like fibroblasts and macrophages and supporting epithelialization and tissue repair. This combination of edema control and tissue repair is characteristic of HVPC.

Other modalities use different waveforms or goals: TENS typically employs biphasic currents for pain relief; NMES uses biphasic currents to elicit muscle contractions; IFC uses intersecting medium-frequency currents to create beat frequencies for analgesia. The monophasic high-voltage pulsed current is the one chosen for edema and wound management.