External devices increasing bone quality in animals: A systematic review
Agostino Igor Mirulla1, Chiara Brogi2, Giuseppe Barone1
1Department for Life Quality Studies, University of Bologna, Corso d'Augusto 237, 47921, Rimini, Italy.
Heliyon
|November 29, 2023
Summary
External devices offer a non-invasive approach to improve bone quality, but current research lacks standardization. Ultrasound and laser are most studied, yet their significant effects on bone quality remain unproven.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Orthopedics
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Osteoporosis diminishes bone quality, increasing fracture risk.
- Non-pharmacological interventions like external devices offer less invasive therapeutic options.
- External devices aim to enhance bone strength and quality with minimal patient discomfort.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review technologies of external devices for improving bone quality.
- To identify the most effective external device technologies based on existing literature.
- To assess the impact of non-invasive external devices on bone quality.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review adhering to the PRISMA Statement.
- Focus on studies involving animal models, excluding pharmaceutical interventions.
- Analysis of device technologies, settings, interventions, and measured outcomes.
Main Results:
- Ultrasound and laser therapies are the most frequently investigated external device technologies.
- Current evidence does not conclusively prove significant positive effects of ultrasound and laser on bone quality.
- A wide variation in outcome measures, methodologies, and device parameters was observed across studies.
Conclusions:
- External devices present a promising non-invasive strategy for enhancing bone quality.
- Lack of standardization in research methodologies hinders quantitative comparisons and definitive conclusions.
- Further standardized research is necessary to validate the efficacy of external devices for bone health.
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