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Low-level laser irradiation (LLLI) and recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein type 2 (rhBMP-2) have been used to stimulate bone formation. LLLI stimulates proliferation of osteoblast precursor cells and cell differentiation and rhBMP-2 recruits osteoprogenitor cells to the bone healing area. This in vivo study evaluated the effects of LLLI and rhBMP-2 on the bone healing process in rats. Critical bone defects were created in the parietal bone in 42 animals, and the animals were divided into six treatment groups: (1) laser, (2) 7 μg of rhBMP-2, (3) laser and 7 μg of rhBMP-2, (4) 7 μg of rhBMP-2/monoolein gel, (5) laser and 7 μg rhBMP-2/monoolein gel, and (6) critical bone defect controls.
