Abstract

Background:
The exogen device delivers low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS), which stimulates osteogenesis and angiogenesis without causing harmful thermal effects. In veterinary practice, it can speed fracture healing in animals and horses, enhancing bone strength and shortening recovery time.

Aim:
This experimental study evaluated the veterinary application of the Exogen LIPUS device in promoting alveolar bone healing and reducing post-orthodontic relapse in rabbits.

Methods:
Twenty adult rabbits underwent orthodontic tooth movement, followed by appliance removal. Animals were divided into two groups: control group without LIPUS treatment and an Exogen group receiving daily LIPUS exposure for 20 days. Clinical measurements of relapse distance (RD) were recorded at days 0, 10, and 20. Histological and histomorphometric analyses were performed to assess osteoblast and osteoclast counts, vascular density, and periodontal ligament (PDL) width in both cervical and apical regions.

Results:
Results showed that the Exogen group exhibited a significantly smaller RD from day 10 onwards (p ≤ 0.01) and approximately 35% less relapse at day 20 compared with controls. Histomorphometric data revealed significant osteoblast counts, lower osteoclast counts, increased vascular density, and narrower PDL width in the Exogen group, indicating enhanced bone formation, reduced bone resorption, and improved periodontal stability. Histological examination confirmed denser osteoblastic lining and more pronounced vascularization in treated animals.

Conclusion:
These findings suggest that the Exogen LIPUS device may serve as an effective adjunct tool in veterinary medicine to accelerate bone healing—particularly alveolar bone—and to achieve greater stability of teeth following maxillofacial surgical interventions in rabbits, and potentially in other animals.

Key words: Bone healing; Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound; Relapse; Rabbits; Veterinary dentistry.