Use and Evaluation of a Cooling Aid in Laser-Assisted Dental Surgery: An Innovative Study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the beneficial effect of NeoHeal during laser-assisted oral surgery.

BACKGROUND DATA: Laser-assisted surgery is a less invasive technique than conventional surgery using a blade; however, the heat produced by the laser can damage tissue proximal to the treated area. We hypothesized the hydrogel NeoHeal could be applied during oral surgery and have similar benefits as those already described for dermatological surgery.

METHODS: In our randomized controlled trial, we first selected 30 patients who were to undergo laser surgical intervention using a diode laser. Both at the end of intervention and at follow-up, each patient filled out a questionnaire comprising two questions. The answers to the questions were statistically analyzed with regard to frequency of each response, and validated by the Wilcoxon test with a p value <0.05 being considered significant.

RESULTS: The use of NeoHeal significantly reduced the pain experienced by patients both during the intervention and at the 7-day follow-up. NeoHeal clearly reduces surgery-related pain experienced by patients.

CONCLUSIONS: The results show positive feedback from the patients, demonstrating how the hydrogel pads are necessary, useful, and effective as a cooling aid in laser-assisted dental surgery.