Abstract
Objectives: This study evaluated the application of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) to reduce the implant healing time in rat tibiae.
Materials and Methods: Forty-two 10-week-old female Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were used in this study. Titanium implants were inserted into the proximal tibiae of all rats. After installation, LIPUS irradiation was performed for 15 min on the left tibiae. LIPUS therapy was repeated every other day for 2 weeks, i.e., a total of 3 times for a 7-day observation group and 7 times for 28-day observation group. Animals were sacrificed and tibiae were collected 8 and 28 days after implant placement. After capturing soft X-ray images and performing a torque test, the tibiae were decalcified and 8-µm-thick sections were prepared. Specimens were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, Masson-Goldner stain, TRAP stain, and immunohistochemical staining with anti-SOST and PECAM antibodies.
Results: Soft-X ray images, removal torque values, and histomorphometric analysis demonstrated a significantly higher degree of bone formation in the LIPUS group earlier in the healing process. This phenomenon was observed continuously until 28 days. Bone maturation and angiogenesis were also promoted by LIPUS treatment.
Conclusion: LIPUS irradiation was effective in bone healing and osseointegration of titanium implants inserted into rat tibiae. LIPUS may also be suitable for use in oral implant therapy.
