Low intensity pulsed ultrasound
Encyclopedia
Low intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) is a medical technology, generally utilizing 1.5 MHz frequency pulses, with a pulse width of 200 μs, repeated at 1 kHz, at an intensity of 30 mW/cm2, 20 minutes/day.
Applications of LIPUS include:
Researchers at the University of Alberta
have used LIPUS to gently massage teeth roots and jawbones to cause growth or regrowth, and have grown new teeth in rabbits after lower jaw surgical lengthening (Distraction osteogenesis) (American Journal of Orthodontics, 2002). As of June 2006
, a larger device has been licensed by the Food and Drug Administration
(FDA) and Health Canada
for use by orthopedic surgeons. A smaller device that fits on braces has also been developed but is still in the investigational stage and is not available to the public.
It has not yet been approved by either Canadian or American regulatory bodies and a market-ready model is currently being prepared. LIPUS is expected to be commercially available before the end of 2012.
According to Dr. Chen from the University of Alberta, LIPUS MAY also have medical/cosmetic benefits in allowing people to grow taller by stimulating bone growth.
Applications of LIPUS include:
- Promoting bone fracture healing.
- Treating orthodontically induced root resorptionRoot resorptionIn dentistry, root resorption is the breakdown or destruction, and subsequent loss, of the root structure of a tooth. This is caused by living body cells attacking part of the tooth. When the damage extends to the whole tooth, it is called tooth resorption...
. - Regrow missing teeth.
- Enhancing mandibular growth in children with hemifacial microsomiaHemifacial microsomiaHemifacial microsomia is a congenital disorder that affects the development of the lower half of the face, most commonly the ears, the mouth and the mandible. It can occur on one side of the face or both. If severe it can lead to difficulties in breathing, obstructing the trachea and requiring a...
. - Promoting healing in various soft tissues such as cartilage, inter vertebral disc, etc.
- Improving muscle healing after laceration injury.
Researchers at the University of Alberta
University of Alberta
The University of Alberta is a public research university located in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Founded in 1908 by Alexander Cameron Rutherford, the first premier of Alberta and Henry Marshall Tory, its first president, it is widely recognized as one of the best universities in Canada...
have used LIPUS to gently massage teeth roots and jawbones to cause growth or regrowth, and have grown new teeth in rabbits after lower jaw surgical lengthening (Distraction osteogenesis) (American Journal of Orthodontics, 2002). As of June 2006
June 2006
June 2006 was the sixth month of that year. It began on a Thursday and ended after 30 days on a FridayThe following events also occurred during the month:...
, a larger device has been licensed by the Food and Drug Administration
Food and Drug Administration
The Food and Drug Administration is an agency of the United States Department of Health and Human Services, one of the United States federal executive departments...
(FDA) and Health Canada
Health Canada
Health Canada is the department of the government of Canada with responsibility for national public health.The current Minister of Health is Leona Aglukkaq, a Conservative Member of Parliament appointed to the position by Prime Minister Stephen Harper.-Branches, regions and agencies:Health Canada...
for use by orthopedic surgeons. A smaller device that fits on braces has also been developed but is still in the investigational stage and is not available to the public.
It has not yet been approved by either Canadian or American regulatory bodies and a market-ready model is currently being prepared. LIPUS is expected to be commercially available before the end of 2012.
According to Dr. Chen from the University of Alberta, LIPUS MAY also have medical/cosmetic benefits in allowing people to grow taller by stimulating bone growth.
External links
- Canadians go ultrasonic for tooth regrowth implant Chris Williams (The Register) Thursday 29 June 2006 14:59 GMT
- Ultrasound May Help Regrow Teeth University of Alberta (Science Daily) June 28, 2006
- LIPUS foundation website