Is LIPUS Effective in Managing Postoperative Sequelae Following Third Molar Surgery?

Area of Science:

• Oral Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Surgical removal of impacted mandibular third molars commonly leads to postoperative complications.
• These complications include pain, swelling, trismus, and delayed wound healing.
• Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) has shown promise in managing maxillofacial surgery complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of LIPUS in managing postoperative complications.
• To assess the impact of LIPUS on wound healing after mandibular third molar surgery.

Main Methods:

• Thirty patients were randomized into a control group (Group A) and a study group (Group B).
• Group B received LIPUS therapy (1 MHz, 1.5 W/cm², 20 min) on postoperative days 0, 1, 2, and 3.
• Postoperative pain, swelling, mouth opening, and wound healing were assessed on days 1, 3, 4, and 7.

Main Results:

• The study group (Group B) demonstrated significantly better management of postoperative complications and wound healing compared to the control group (Group A).
• Group B exhibited significantly lower mean swelling scores than Group A.
• Significant improvements in mouth opening and wound healing were observed in Group B.

Conclusions:

• LIPUS is an effective and safe therapeutic option for managing postoperative complications following mandibular third molar extraction.
• LIPUS demonstrates benefits in reducing pain, swelling, and trismus, while enhancing wound healing.