Laser-assisted removal of biofilms from wedge-shaped and narrow-gap periodontal pocket modelsVolk, Marko (Avtor) Stopar, David (Mentor) biofilmin vitro model systemEr:YAG laser systemphotoacoustic cavitationP. aeruginosaperiodontal pocketperi-implant pocketPeriodontal diseases, impacting nearly half of the global population, are notoriously challenging to treat due to biofilm-associated antimicrobial resistance. Conditions like periodontitis and peri-implantitis lead to tissue destruction and implant failures. Conventional treatments often fall short in eliminating biofilms from difficult-to-reach areas. The Er:YAG laser photoacoustic cleaning represents a promising advancement, utilizing laser-induced cavitation to disrupt biofilms without significant tissue damage. This PhD thesis explores the efficiency of photoacoustic biofilm removal using model systems mimicking periodontal and peri-implant pockets, focusing on the roles of secondary cavitation and tissue stiffness. Notably, secondary cavitation enhances biofilm removal, with intense microjets detaching biofilm clusters. Tissue stiffness significantly affects cavitation dynamics; stiffer models, simulating healthier tissues, strengthen cavitation and biofilm eradication compared to softer, inflamed models. Pocket geometry also critically impacts efficiency; wedge-shaped models enable more significant bubble dynamics and biofilm disruption than narrow-gap model. Dual-pulse laser modalities further improve cleaning efficiency, particularly in challenging geometries and softer tissues, by enhancing or enabling secondary bubble generation. Optimal fiber tip positioning is crucial for maximizing cleaning efficacy in narrow-gap models, while surface roughness promotes effective bacterial cleaning via enhanced cavitation. This research underscores the potential of optimized photoacoustic laser treatments to surpass conventional methods, offering minimally invasive, predictable strategies for managing periodontal and peri-implant diseases and laying the groundwork for future clinical validation.[M. Volk]20262026-05-17 07:16:07Doktorsko delo/naloga182568sl