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

BACKGROUND

The surgical management of the impacted mandibular third molar is a routine oral surgical procedure. However, it is often associated with postoperative complications such as pain, swelling, trismus, and poor wound healing during initial postoperative days. The use of LIPUS (low-intensity pulsed ultrasound) in maxillofacial surgery with ultrasound waves normally between 0.5 and 3.0 watts/cm has played a significant role in the management of postoperative complications after oral surgical procedures. Hence, the study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the low-intensity pulsed ultrasound in the management of postoperative complications and wound healing following mandibular third molar surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A group of 30 patients were randomly categorized into Group A (control group) and Group B (study group). Group B received LIPUS therapy with a frequency of 1 Mz and intensity of 1.5 w/cm on the day of surgery, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd postoperative day for 20 min. Postoperative parameters such as pain, swelling, mouth opening, and wound healing were assessed on the 1st, 3rd, 4th, and 7th days.

RESULTS

Postoperative complications and wound healing were better managed in the study group than in the control group. The mean swelling score for Group A was significantly higher than Group B. A significant improvement in mouth opening was observed in Group B when compared to Group A with significant improvement in wound healing.

CONCLUSION

LIPUS can be an effective, safe alternative in the management of postoperative complications such as pain, swelling, trismus, and wound healing surgical removal of mandibular third molars.