Low-level laser therapy, at 60 J/cm2 associated with a Biosilicate(®) increase in bone deposition and indentation biomechanical properties of callus in osteopenic rats

We investigate the effects of a novel bioactive material (Biosilicate(®)) and low-level laser therapy (LLLT), at 60 J/cm(2), on bone-fracture consolidation in osteoporotic rats. Forty female Wistar rats are submitted to the ovariectomy, to induce osteopenia. Eight weeks after the ovariectomy, the animals are randomly divided into four groups, with 10 animals each: bone defect control group; bone defect filled with Biosilicate group; bone defect irradiated with laser at 60 J/cm(2) group; bone defect filled with Biosilicate and irradiated with LLLT, at 60 J/cm(2) group. Laser irradiation is initiated immediately after surgery and performed every 48 h for 14 days.