Evaluation of Efficacy of Low Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound in Facilitating Mandibular Fracture Healing-A Blinded Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of the study was to evaluate the role of low intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) in improving fracture healing in American Society of Anesthesiologists Class II patients with mandibular fractures.

Materials and methods: A randomized controlled clinical trial of 40 patients with mandibular fractures was conducted. The patients were randomly allocated to the study and control groups, with 20 members each. A standardized surgical protocol was followed to manage the fractures by open reduction and internal fixation. After fixation, the study group received LIPUS stimulation (1.5 MHz, 30 mW/cm²) on postoperative days 4, 8, 14, and 20 for 20 minutes daily; the control group received no LIPUS stimulation. The outcome parameters assessed were postoperative pain, wound healing, teeth mobility, and radiographic and ultrasound fracture healing.

Results: The study variables were analyzed using the independent samples t test or Mann-Whitney U test. The pain score was reduced in the study group on all postoperative days (P < .001). The mean amount of wound healing was better in the study group than in the control group on days 5 and 9 (P < .004 and P < .019, respectively). The mean score for the ultrasound assessment of fracture healing was greater in the study group, with a statistically significant difference.

Conclusions: LIPUS application reduced postoperative pain and facilitated fracture healing in patients with compromised healing potential.