The radiological and stereological analysis of the effect of low-level laser therapy on the Mandibular midline distraction Osteogenesis

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of low level laser therapy (LLLT) on bone mineral density by using highresolution computerized tomography (HR-CT) and stereology in patients subjected to mandibular midline distraction. Methods: Nine patients between the ages of 13 and 16 years with mandibular transverse deficiency (<5 mm) were evaluated. Mandibular midline distraction osteogenesis was performed for all the patients. The patients were divided into 2 groups: The control group (n=4) and the laser group (n=5). GaAlAs, 830 nm wavelength, power of 40 mW, energy of 8.4 J/cm2 dose per spot, was directly applied from 2 points on the mandibular midline. The laser was applied in 8 treatment sessions at 48-hour intervals. Bone mineral density and volume of the newly formed bone were analyzed using HR-CT and stereological methods. Results: A higher bone mineral density rate was found in the laser group (P>0.05). A higher newly formed immature bone rate was found in the control group (P>0.001). These findings suggest that more mature bone may also have a greater mineral organization than that of immature newly formed bone, which is shown by HR-CT and stereological results. Conclusions: The retention period can be shortened and mineralization may be increased by using LLLT in mandibular distraction osteogenesis. Copyright © 2015 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.