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Temperature variation during apicectomy with Er:YAG laser
Emre Bodrumlu1, Ilker Keskiner, Mahmut Sumer
1Faculty of Dentistry, Department of Endodontics, University of Ondokuz Mayis, Samsun, Turkey. bodrumlu@omu.edu.tr
Photomedicine and Laser Surgery
|June 27, 2012
Summary
The Er:YAG laser, particularly at a 50 μs pulse duration, shows promise for apicectomy, generating the lowest temperatures and requiring the least time. This laser can be safely used in endodontic surgery with adequate water cooling.
Area of Science:
- Endodontics
- Dental Laser Technology
- Surgical Procedures
Background:
- Apicectomy is an endodontic surgical procedure to address persistent periapical lesions.
- It involves removing the root apex and affected surrounding tissue.
- This procedure is indicated when conventional root canal therapy fails to resolve infection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the temperature generated by the Er:YAG laser at various pulse durations with conventional methods (tungsten bur, surgical saw) during apicectomy.
- To evaluate the efficiency and safety of laser use in this surgical context.
Main Methods:
- An in vitro study utilizing 60 human teeth undergoing apicectomy.
- Teeth were resected using a tungsten bur, surgical saw, or Er:YAG laser (50, 100, or 300 μs pulse durations).
- Temperature changes were measured using thermocouples at 1 mm and 3 mm from the cutting site; time efficiency was also recorded.
Main Results:
- No significant temperature difference was observed at 1 mm from the cutting site across all methods.
- A statistically significant difference in temperature was noted at 3 mm from the cutting site among the groups.
- Significant differences were also found in the total time required for apicectomy among the tested methods.
Conclusions:
- The Er:YAG laser with a 50 μs pulse duration demonstrated the lowest temperature rise and shortest procedure time.
- Er:YAG laser irradiation, across all tested pulse durations, is deemed safe for endodontic apicectomy when sufficient water irrigation is employed.
