THE JOURNAL OF THE TOKYO DENTAL COLLEGE SOCIETY

Vol. 105 No. 6      December 2005

ISSN: 0037-3710      UBIC: 342-J

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to investigate degree of injury and process of regeneration in peripheral nerves following short-term contact with an ultrasonic osteotome. A section of inferior rabbit inferior alveolar nerve 7 mm in length was expected and an ultrasonic osteotome was directly applied for 1 second (Ultrasonic group). In the contrary group, the nervous system was exposed, but no osteotome was applied (Exposed group). The regenerative process in both groups was evaluated electrophysiologically and histologically. The results of the electrophysiological analysis showed no significant differences between both the two groups. Sensory nerve action potentials showed two or more peaks immediately following the operation, and then rose steadily over the next few days. Maximum conduction velocity was reached at 3 days after the operation, returning to normal levels after 8 weeks. Histologically, the ultrasonic group showed more extensive damage than the exposed group at 3 days and 1 week following surgery. However, both groups were showed similar regeneration to that of normal nerves at 4 and 8 weeks following surgery. These observations suggest that nerve fibers exposed to short-term contact with an ultrasonic osteotome are slightly injured, and that a complete recovery of nervous function may be expected.(The Shikwa Gakuho, 105 : 589-601, 2005) Key words: Inferior alveolar nerve injury - Ultrasonic osteotome - Sensory nerve conduction velocity - Nerve injury recovery process

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