Abstract
Purpose : The aim of this study is to evaluate a possibility of clinical application for the effects of low intensity ultrasound stimulation (LIUS) in morphological characteristics (i.e., structure, bone mineral density) of bone on osteoporotic fracturesprevention. Materials and Methods : Eight virgin 14-week-old ICR mice (approximate weight 25g) were used and ovariectomized (OVX) to induce osteoporosis. Right tibia (US) for each mouse served as the LIUS (1.5MHz frequency, 1.0 kHz pulse repetition on frequency, $30mW/cm^2$ intensity, $200{\mu}s$ pulse length, and stimulation for 20 minutes a day and 5 days a week over a 6-week period). Left tibia (CON) for each mouse served as the non-stimulated controls. Structural parameters and bone mineral density ($g/cm^3$) on trabecular bone of tibiae were calculated and measured from images derived in-vivo micro computed tomography (micro-CT) at 0 week and after 6weeks. Results : The BV/TV and Tb.N in US group were significantly bigger than those in CON group. The Tb.Pf in US group, moreover, was significantly smaller than that in CON group (p<0.05).For the others structural parameters and BMD, however, there were no significant difference between US group and CON group (p>0.05). Conclusion : The LIUS might prevent bone loss and keep bone connectivity in osteoporotic bones. Therefore, the LIUS might prevent effectively the osteoporotic fractures in clinics.