Fracture Nonunion Treated with Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound and Monitored with Ultrasonography: A Feasibility Study

BioMed Research International, 2021 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1155/2021/8834795 · Published: January 27, 2021

Medical Imaging Orthopedics Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the use of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) to treat a fracture nonunion (a fracture that isn't healing properly). The study also explores the use of ultrasonography to monitor the healing process and to check for heterotopic ossification (HO). A 42-year-old male patient with a fracture nonunion in his right tibia was treated with LIPUS for six weeks. Ultrasonography was used weekly to monitor the fracture site for healing and to detect any signs of HO. The results showed that LIPUS therapy promoted bone formation in the fracture area, and ultrasonography confirmed this. Importantly, ultrasonography revealed no evidence of HO formation during the treatment period.

Study Duration

6 Weeks

Participants

One 42-year-old Chinese male patient

Evidence Level

Case Study

Key Findings

1
LIPUS therapy facilitated fracture repair in a patient with nonunion, as evidenced by ultrasound and radiographic outcomes showing callus formation and a blurred fracture line.
2
Ultrasonography effectively monitored the LIPUS-treated bone healing process and confirmed the absence of heterotopic ossification (HO) formation during the 6-week therapy period.
3
Ultrasonography proved to be a useful bedside tool for monitoring HO occurrence during the LIPUS therapy process, offering advantages over plain radiography.

Research Summary

This study explored the feasibility of using low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) to treat fracture nonunion while monitoring for heterotopic ossification (HO) using ultrasonography. The results demonstrated that LIPUS facilitated fracture repair, with ultrasonography confirming bone formation and the absence of HO. This suggests ultrasonography is a valuable tool for monitoring LIPUS therapy. The integration of handheld ultrasound scanners with ultrasonic therapeutic apparatus can aid orthopedists in providing high-quality care and diagnosis.

Practical Implications

Clinical Monitoring

Ultrasonography can be used to monitor fracture healing during LIPUS therapy and to detect HO.

Non-Invasive Treatment

LIPUS is a non-invasive alternative for treating fracture nonunions, particularly when surgery is high-risk.

Integrated Technology

Combining handheld ultrasound with LIPUS devices can improve orthopedic care and diagnosis.

Study Limitations

1
The study is based on a single case, limiting the generalizability of the findings.
2
Further studies with larger sample sizes are needed to validate the effectiveness of LIPUS and ultrasonography for treating fracture nonunions.
3
The study does not specify long-term follow-up data regarding the patient's fracture healing and potential for HO development.

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