ABSTRACT
Objectives: The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the effects of low intensity
pulsed ultrasound (LIPU) on dental implant osseointegration in a rabbit model using
mechanical-histomorphometric methods and resonance-frequency analysis (RFA).
Methods: Twelve skeletally mature, male New Zealand rabbits (3.4 kg±0.5) were included
in the study. A total number of 24 implants were placed bilaterally into the tibiae
of the subjects. The right tibia of each rabbit received LIPU application (20 min/day)
while the left side received sham treatment. The study was carried on for six weeks
and the rabbits were sacrificed in 7 days intervals (two rabbits for each week). The
rabbits were categorized in the early or late osseointegration period according to
their sacrification date. Comparisons between the groups were made using statistical
analysis of histomorphometric analysis, resonance frequency analysis and mechanical
tests.
Results: The histomorphometry parameters showed that the bone area and the bone volume
values have significantly increased in the early osseointegration period and the bone-implant
contact values have significantly increased in the late osseointegration period in
the LIPU treated subjects when compared to the control group. RFA scores had mild
increase in the LIPU group. However the difference was not statistically significant.
Mechanical test results suggest an increased mechanical stability in the LIPU group
as well.
Conclusions: Results of this pilot study indicate that low intensity pulsed ultrasound
may have positive effects on osseointegration and stability of dental implants. (Eur
J Dent 2008;2:254-262)
Key Words:
Osseointegration - Therapeutic ultrasound - Dental implant - Histomorphometry
