Pulsed electromagnetic fields effects on swelling and pain after implant surgery: a double-blind, randomized study

Purpose: The aim of this split-mouth, double-blind, randomized study is to evaluate if pulsed electromagnetic fields treatment can improve swelling and pain management after a full-arch immediate loading implant surgery. Materials and methods: Eleven patients were selected for the study. Each patient received four implants in the upper or lower jaw using distal tilted implants and underwent a full-arch immediate loading rehabilitation. After surgery two pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF) devices were applied on the right and the left cheek of each patient. Randomly one PEMF device was switched on (test side), applying the other one as a placebo (control side). 48 hours after surgery clinicians estimated the postoperative swelling through photographic documentation, comparing the condition prior and after surgery, while pain was assessed using a verbal rating scale. Patient's comfort degree in relation to PEMF devices was analyzed by questionnaires using a numerical rating scale. Results: No statistically significant difference was observed between the test side and the control one as regards to swelling and pain (p>0.05). Most of patients did not present swelling or pain 48 hours after surgery, without distinction between PEMF device activated and not. Variable outcomes emerged from comfort evaluation. Conclusion: Within the limits of this study, PEMF does not reduce postoperative swelling and pain after immediate loading implant surgery. Keywords: immediate loading, implant surgery, pulsed electromagnetic field, PEMF, postoperative swelling, pain