Effect of Low-intensity Pulsed Ultrasound on the Mandibular Remodeling Following Inferior Alveolar Nerve Transection.

Objective To investigate the effects of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) on the mandibular remodeling following inferior alveolar nerve transection (IANX) and to optimize the parameters of LIPUS in the treatment of nerve injury. Methods IANX was performed in male Sprague-Dawley rats. Four weeks after IANX,the effect of daily LIPUS (from day 1) on the transected inferior alveolar nerve was examined in terms of sensitivity to mechanical stimulation. Moreover,histopathologic changes of mandibles were analyzed by micro-CT,HE staining,Masson trichrome staining,and immunohistochemical staining. Results LIPUS promoted the recovery of inferior alveolar nerve injury after transection. HE staining displayed the improvement of trabecular thickness and continuity. LIPUS with higher duty ratios had more obvious effect on bone remodeling. Conclusion LIPUS promotes the mandibular remodeling following IANX.