Laser Versus Ultrasound on Bone Density Recuperation After Distraction Osteogenesis-A Cone-Beam Computer Tomographic Analysis

Purpose: To assess the effects of low-level laser versus ultrasound irradiation on bone mineral density after distraction osteogenesis using cone-beam computed tomographic analysis in an experimental study. Materials and Methods: Distraction osteogenesis was performed with rapid maxillary expansion devices (Hyrax-Morelli, Sorocaba-Sao Paulo-Brazil). After a 2-day latency period, the distraction devices were activated for 10 days at a rate of 1 mm/day. Four groups of 6 animals were distributed as follows: 1) control, 2) laser irradiation on the right side, 3) ultrasound irradiation on the right side, and 4) laser irradiation on the right side and ultrasound on the left side. Cone-beam computed tomography was used to determine bone mineral density by measuring the recovery (percentage). Analysis of variance and the Tukey test (P =.05) were used for statistical analyses. Results: The influences of low-intensity laser and ultrasound irradiation on bone mineral density were statistically significant. The analyses showed greater bone mineral density recuperation in the mandibular side with the ultrasound application. Conclusions: The results of this study suggest an acceleration of bone mineral density after laser and ultrasound irradiation. Ultrasound irradiation showed the greatest effects and the laser power positively influenced the recuperation of the bone density on the side opposite its application, causing a cross reaction or even exacerbating the inherent action of ultrasound irradiation. (C) 2013 American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons J Oral Maxillofac Surg 71:921-928, 2013