Effect of Novel Low-intensity Pulsed Ultrasound Stimulation on Accelerated Implant Osteointegration in Canine

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the effect of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPU) application on dental implant accelerated osseointegration in the two-stage implant protocol.

Materials and methods: A total of 20 implants were placed in 10 mature mongrel dogs, two implants for each dog replacing the lower 3rd premolars bilaterally. After 3 months of extraction, implants were placed. After 24 hours of implantation, the right sides received LIPU for 20 mins/day, continuously for 20 days. The left sides didn't receive LIPU (control). Standardized radiographs were taken before LIPU and after 10 and 20 days for both sides. After 20 days of LIPU application, second-stage surgery was performed and provisional crowns were placed on each implant. Implants were subjected to functional occlusal loading for 4 weeks. Standardized radiographs were taken after 2 and 4 weeks of loading and analyzed to assess the peri-implant bone density changes. All data were collected, tabulated, and statistically analyzed.

Results: All tissues appeared clinically normal, with the absence of inflammation and peri-implant radiolucency. The survival rate was 100%. The LIPU group showed a statistically significantly higher percentage increase in mean bone density after 10 LIPU sessions, 20 LIPU sessions, and 2 and 4 weeks of loading, than a control group.

Conclusion: The LIPU stimulation radiographically increased the bone density around implant area and accelerated osseointegration in the two-stage implant protocol.

Clinical significance: Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound stimulation could be beneficial in accelerating osseointegration and thus shortening the waiting period for final prosthetic delivery.

Keywords: Accelerated-osteointegration; Dental implant; Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound Two-stage implant protocol..