Comparison of depth and profile of osteotomies performed by rapid superpulsed and continuous-wave CO 2 laser beams at high power output

Abstract

Osteotomies performed by continuous-wave (CW) and rapid superpulsed (RSP) CO2 lasers at high power outputs are compared. Both the RSP and CW modes were able to cut frozen cortical bone at a velocity of 2 mm/second. The RSP laser produced slightly more shallow cuts with profiles that were far superior, especially when lenses with longer focal lengths were employed. The RSP laser seems promising for use in osteotomies because it reduces paraincisional damage.