The evidence of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound for in vitro, animal and human fracture healing.

BACKGROUND Physical stimulation therapies are currently available to enhance fracture healing. SOURCES OF DATA A search of PubMed, Medline, CINAHL, DH data and Embase databases was performed using the keywords 'ultrasound' and 'fracture healing'. AREAS OF AGREEMENT The evidence in vitro and animal studies suggests that low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) produces significant osteoinductive effects, accelerating the healing process and improving the bone-bending strength. AREAS OF CONTROVERSY The evidence in human trials is controversial in fresh, stress fractures and in limb lengthening. LIPUS is effective in delayed unions, in smokers and in diabetic population. GROWING POINTS LIPUS is an alternative, less invasive form of treatment for complicated fractures, in patients with poor bone healing and may play a role in the management of large-scale bone defects producing substantial cost savings and decreasing associated disability. AREAS TIMELY FOR DEVELOPING RESEARCH There is heterogeneity among in vitro, animal studies and their application to human studies. Further randomized controlled trials of high methodological quality are needed.

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