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ULTRASOUND STIMULATION OF MAXILLOFACIAL BONE HEALING

Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital Groningen, PO Box 30.001, Hanzeplein 1, 9700 RB, Groningen, The Netherlands;

View larger version (90K): [in a new window]   Figure 1. Photograph of the Sonic Accelerated Fracture Healing System (SAFHS Model 2000®) device. The battery-operated device consists of a main operating unit, to which the treatment head (transducer) is attached. Prior to treatment, aqueous coupling gel is applied on the transducer to ensure proper contact between the transducer and the skin.

View larger version (15K): [in a new window]   Figure 2. Graphic representation of a pulsed ultrasound signal. A series of n pulses with a period which is determined by the frequency is presented. The pulse duration equals n times the period. The pulse sequence is repeated after the pulse repetition time. The maximal and minimal pressures during a pulse train are indicated by p+ (peak positive pressure) and p- (peak negative pressure). The mechanical effects are mainly determined by the pressure of the pulse train. The pulse duration:pulse repetition time ratio modulates the heat load. If ultrasound is administered in short bursts, heat accumulation is limited.

View larger version (16K): [in a new window]   Figure 3. The basis of biophysical stimulation of bone healing according to Wolff’s Law is depicted in a simplified scheme. In the case of injury, bone-stimulating signals through physiologic loading are absent. Ultrasound and electric/electromagnetic stimulation provide a substitute for these signals.