Connective tissue response to root surfaces resected with Nd:YAG laser or burs.
PROBLEM: The Nd:YAG laser beam may be used for root resection, but the tissue compatibility of the resulting root surface has not been confirmed. OBJECTIVE: This study assessed the connective tissue response over time to implanted root segments with Nd:YAG laser-cut or bur-cut surfaces. STUDY DESIGN: Endodontically treated roots of 25 extracted human teeth were cross sectioned to form 3.5 mm thick disks by alternating a water-cooled Nd:YAG laser with a high-speed water-cooled tungsten fissure bur. A total of 63 disks were implanted into the dorsal subcutaneous tissue of 16 rats, then recovered with the surrounding tissue after periods of 3, 7, 14, 28, 60, and 90 days, and processed for light microscopic examination. Tissue against the cut surfaces was assessed for intensity and extent of inflammation and fibrous capsule thickness. RESULTS: A two-factor analysis of variation showed statistically significant (p < 0.05) differences between the laser-cut and bur-cut surfaces. CONCLUSION: Tissue repair about the root surfaces resected with Nd:YAG laser was delayed when compared with those resected with a bur.