A comparison of surgical scar treatment using various combinations of autologous fat, hyaluronic acid and resurfacing with the 1540 nm non-ablative Erbium laser - a prospective pilot study.

Scars can cause aesthetic or functional disturbance. Several interventions had been described to improve their appearance. We propose that the combination of some of those treatments can synergize their effects on the scar. We designed a prospective pilot study with ten patients using the patient as their own control to compare different interventions. In each patient, the scar was divided into four parts treated differently: 1. No treatment (control), 2. Fat grafting only, 3. Fat grafting and Hyaluronic Acid (HA), 4. Fat grafting, HA and with a non-fractional laser. Each part of the scar was evaluated by the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS). Treatment of the scar with the combination of the three modalities showed better results in the observer scale. In addition, a combination of fat injection, HA, and subsequent skin resurfacing with non-ablative laser showed better outcomes for all parameters on the Observer Scale except vascularity, while on the Patient Scale thickness, relief, pliability, surface area, and overall measurement were better. The combination of all three treatments tends to improve scarring results and appears to be safe and effective. However, further studies with larger samples are needed to explore the potential use of this combined treatment.

The Treatment Selection for a 36-Year-Old Woman With Stress Urinary Incontinence Using a Discrete Mathematical Approach: A Case Report.

This case report describes the treatment selection process for a 36-year-old woman with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and an overactive bladder (OAB) who desired pregnancy. The patient had comorbidities of hypertension and type 2 diabetes, which required consideration to improve her quality of life and reproductive health. A recently developed decision support tool using a discrete mathematical approach was used to select a treatment method tailored to the patient's individual situation. The analysis determined that vaginal erbium laser (VEL) treatment (Renovalase SP Dynamis Fotona d.o.o, Ljubljana, Slovenia) was the most suitable for this patient. VEL treatment significantly improved both SUI and OAB and changing antihypertensive medication eliminated nocturia. This case suggests the potential application of graph theory in treatment selection for SUI patients.

Navigating Treatment Choices for Stress and Urgency Urinary Incontinence Using Graph Theory in Discrete Mathematics.

In this study, we propose a method for navigating the choice of treatment for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and urgency urinary incontinence (UUI) using graph theory in discrete mathematics. Our previous study accumulated data from 150 patients who underwent tension-free vaginal tape (TVT), transobturator tape (TOT), and vaginal non-ablation Erbium YAG laser (VEL) surgeries between 2014 and 2016. Network diagrams were created using this data. The treatments TVT, TOT, and VEL, along with patient characteristics (1-hour pad test: 1-hrPadTest, Overactive Bladder Symptom Score: OABSS), were represented as nodes and edges in the network diagram. We then employed a heuristic function to select the optimal treatment method for the patients with SUI and UUI. This process enables medical professionals to easily navigate the data for patients with both SUI and UUI concerns by calculating the shortest path connecting the 1-hrPadTest and OABSS. These results, which are consistent with those of previous studies, suggest that VEL is the optimal treatment. Unlike previous studies that employed statistical knowledge that is challenging for patients to understand, our study aids patients in visually comprehending and developing a customized treatment plan. This approach introduces a novel perspective for clinical decision-making in the treatment of urinary incontinence. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to apply discrete mathematics to patient decision-making for urinary incontinence treatment.

Effect of ultrasonic and Er,Cr:YSGG laser-activated irrigation protocol on dual-species root canal biofilm removal: An in vitro study.

Aim: The aim of the study was to investigate the disinfecting efficacy of a standardized irrigating solution activated by ultrasonics or laser irradiation on mature dual-species biofilms at different root levels in vitro. Materials and Methods: Conventional access cavity preparations were done on 160 single-rooted mandibular premolar teeth with single canals. Freshly extracted oral microbial strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus mutans, Enterococcus faecalis, and Candida albicans after biochemical confirmation were used to generate two discrete dual-species microbial inoculums. The sterilized tooth samples were randomly segregated into two groups (n = 80) and inoculated with a mixed inoculum of S. aureus + E. faecalis strains (Group 1) and S. mutans + C. albicans strains (Group 2), respectively. Following the 21-day incubation period under aerobic conditions, the infected specimens in each group were divided into four subgroups (n = 20) and subjected to experimental treatment protocols. This included a positive control (no treatment of biofilms), syringe irrigation alone with TruNatomy needle, passive ultrasonically activated irrigation with 20# Irrisafe tip, and laser agitation of irrigant with Er,Cr:YSGG laser using RFT 2 laser tip. Root canals of experimental specimens (except the control samples) are instrumented with TruNatomy rotary file system using 1:1 mixture of 3% NaOCl and 18% etidronic acid as irrigants. The quantitative assessment of reduction in viable biofilm microbes after treatment was done using colony-forming unit counts and confocal laser scanning microscopy image analysis. The obtained data were analyzed statistically with a significant level set at 0.05. Results: Laser-assisted irrigation has shown a considerably higher mean percentage reduction of microbes compared to ultrasonic agitation and the syringe irrigation showed the least microbial reduction (P = 0.001). No significant difference was noted between the three root regions of ultrasonic and laser groups (P > 0.05), whereas in the syringe groups, apical portions showed higher microbial counts compared to cervical and mid-root regions (P = 0.001). Conclusion: Erbium laser-assisted irrigation has performed superior to ultrasonic agitation against both the experimental dual-species biofilms, while the syringe irrigation showed the least microbial reduction specifically at apical root portions.

Managing a Misdiagnosed Case of Nevus Sebaceous.

A male patient in his early 20s presented to our outpatient clinic, having previously been misdiagnosed and unsuccessfully treated as a case of viral warts. Dermoscopic and histopathological evaluations revealed characteristic features of the nevus sebaceous. The lesion was eventually treated with an erbium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Er:YAG) laser after the patient declined surgical excision. Nevus sebaceous often presents with verrucous surfaces that make misdiagnosis common. A correct diagnosis is crucial due to potential neoplastic transformations. Histopathological analysis is essential for both the confirmation of disease and the exclusion of malignancy. Full-thickness surgical excision remains the preferred treatment.

A Triple Laser Combination Treatment for Facial Angiofibromata Management in Tuberous Sclerosis and Literature Review.

Angiofibromas are a common facial manifestation of tuberous sclerosis (TS). However, current treatments have proven ineffective due to high recurrence rates and noncompliance. To address this issue, we developed a new triple laser therapy protocol for more effective management of angiofibromas. We conducted tests to validate its efficacy. This is a prospective study of 10 patients with TS (4 women and 6 men, mean age 26.3 years [15-37 years]) with angiofibromata who received triple sequential laser therapy at our private dermatological clinic conducted from January 2000 to December 2022. We evaluated the outcome with the Facial Angiofibromata Severity Index (FASI) via clinical photography (0, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years), and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). All patients had a successful recovery without any complications. Among these 10 patients, 4 experienced localized recurrences at their 6-month follow-up. These recurrences were treated with a second single carbon dioxide laser session. After 2 years of follow-up, we observed no recurring facial cutaneous manifestations. Furthermore, all patients experienced a decrease in their FASI score after treatment. According to the Visual Analogue Scale, patients reported 95% satisfaction, and DLQI indicated only a minor impact on their everyday lives. We believe that this protocol of three-step laser treatment is effective, safe, and compliable for patients with facial angiofibromata, providing a satisfactory outcome adaptable to the daily dermatological and plastic surgery practice.

Efficacy and Safety of Combination Therapy With Vaginal and Urethral Erbium-Doped Yttrium-Aluminum-Garnet (Er:YAG) Laser for Overactive Bladder With Urinary Incontinence.

OBJECTIVE: This retrospective cohort study with propensity score (PS) matching aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a combination therapy with vaginal and urethral erbium:yttrium aluminum garnet laser (VEL+UEL) (SP Dynamis; Fotona d.o.o., Ljubljana, Slovenia) in the treatment of overactive bladder with urinary incontinence (OAB-wet). METHODS: The study included female OAB-wet patients aged 65 and above who were already taking OAB medication. Data obtained from electronic medical records were subjected to propensity score matching. All patients received instructions on pelvic floor exercises and were prescribed an appropriate dose of OAB medication. The VEL+UEL group (n=30) underwent three monthly laser sessions, while the control group (n=30) did not receive the treatment. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS), International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-SF), three-day urination diary, and Vaginal Health Index Score (VHIS). Medication usage and adverse events were also assessed. Statistical analysis and R code were performed using the AI chatbot GPT-4.0. RESULTS: The VEL+UEL group showed significant improvements in OABSS score, ICIQ-SF score, voided volume, daytime frequency, nocturia, and VHIS after 12 months of treatment (p<0.001). Notably, 13.3% of patients transitioned from OAB-wet to OAB-dry. In contrast, the control group did not exhibit significant changes. Medication use was significantly reduced in the VEL+UEL group compared to the control group (p<0.001). No long-term side effects were reported. CONCLUSION: Combination therapy with VEL+UEL demonstrated efficacy and safety in the treatment of OAB-wet. Improvements in OAB symptoms, voided volume, frequency, nocturia, and vaginal health were observed, with a subset of patients transitioning to OAB-dry. VEL+UEL therapy offers a potential treatment option for OAB-wet, reducing medication use and improving patient outcomes. Further research is warranted to investigate the mechanism, long-term effects, safety, and cost-effectiveness of VEL+UEL therapy.

Effect of Er,Cr: YSGG laser debonding treatment on the optical properties and surface roughness of ceramic laminate veneers: An in vitro study.

PURPOSE: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of (Er,Cr: YSGG) laser debonding treatment on optical properties and surface roughness of veneers made of different ceramic materials. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty bovine incisors were prepared to receive laminate veneers and divided into three groups (n = 10) according to ceramic material where group (E): IPS e.max CAD, group (S): Vita Suprinity, and group (C): Celtra Duo. Blocks were sectioned into 0.5 mm thickness plates and cemented on the labial surface of incisors using resin cement. The Er,Cr: YSGG laser was applied to each specimen at 4.5 W and 25 Hz for group E and at 6 W and 25 Hz for groups S and C. Color change (△E00), translucency parameter (TP) and surface roughness in µm (Ra) values were measured and calculated before and after laser treatment. Data were analyzed using two-way mixed model ANOVA at a significance level of p < 0.05. RESULTS: The highest mean △E00 value was recorded in group E (1.35 ± 0.09) followed by group S (1.08 ± 0.16) and then group C (0.93 ± 0.10) with a significant difference between them (p < 0.001). All groups exceeded the perceptibility threshold but remained below the acceptability threshold. No statistically significant difference was found in TP except for group E (p = 0.019). Ra values after laser debonding showed significantly higher values than before laser treatment in all three groups (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Er,Cr: YSGG laser can be safely used for debonding ceramic veneers without altering the optical properties but it does increase the roughness of debonded ceramic restorations.

Crystal structure and cryomagnetic study of a mononuclear erbium(III) oxamate inclusion complex.

The synthesis, crystal structure and magnetic properties of an oxamate-containing erbium(III) complex, namely, tetrabutylammonium aqua[N-(2,4,6-trimethylphenyl)oxamato]erbium(III)-dimethyl sulfoxide-water (1/3/1.5), (C16H36N)[Er(C11H12NO3)4(H2O)]·3C2H6OS·1.5H2O or n-Bu4N[Er(Htmpa)4(H2O)]·3DMSO·1.5H2O (1), are reported. The crystal structure of 1 reveals the occurrence of an erbium(III) ion, which is surrounded by four N-phenyl-substituted oxamate ligands and one water molecule in a nine-coordinated environment, together with one tetrabutylammonium cation acting as a counter-ion, and one water and three dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) molecules of crystallization. Variable-temperature static (dc) and dynamic (ac) magnetic measurements were carried out for this mononuclear complex, revealing that it behaves as a field-induced single-ion magnet (SIM) below 5.0 K.

Treatment of Refractory Vesicourethral Anastomosis Pain Following Radical Prostatectomy Using a Combination of Non-ablative Erbium:YAG and Neodymium:YAG Laser Therapy: A Case Report.

This case report describes the successful treatment of refractory vesicourethral anastomosis (VUA) pain in an 82-year-old man following radical prostatectomy using a combination of non-ablative erbium:YAG and neodymium:YAG laser therapy with Fotona SP Dynamis. Despite various conventional treatments, the patient's pain persisted, which significantly impaired his quality of life. The rationale for using laser therapy is based on its potential to promote tissue healing and nerve regeneration and reduce inflammation at the anastomosis site. The patient underwent monthly laser irradiation sessions, with the erbium:YAG laser targeting the area around the urethral anastomosis site via the anus and the neodymium:YAG laser irradiating the base of the penis and scrotum. Urethral pain gradually decreased from a visual analog scale score of 10 to 0 over the course of treatment. This highlights the importance of considering alternative approaches when conventional methods fail to provide relief. The targeted, minimally invasive nature of laser therapy may offer a safer and more effective alternative to systemic medications for managing chronic post-surgical pain. Although further research is needed to establish the generalizability and long-term effectiveness of this approach, this case provides a promising foundation for future investigations of the role of laser therapy in managing refractory VUA pain following radical prostatectomy.

Coherent Erbium Spin Defects in Colloidal Nanocrystal Hosts.

We demonstrate nearly a microsecond of spin coherence in Er3+ ions doped in cerium dioxide nanocrystal hosts, despite a large gyromagnetic ratio and nanometric proximity of the spin defect to the nanocrystal surface. The long spin coherence is enabled by reducing the dopant density below the instantaneous diffusion limit in a nuclear spin-free host material, reaching the limit of a single erbium spin defect per nanocrystal. We observe a large Orbach energy in a highly symmetric cubic site, further protecting the coherence in a qubit that would otherwise rapidly decohere. Spatially correlated electron spectroscopy measurements reveal the presence of Ce3+ at the nanocrystal surface, which likely acts as extraneous paramagnetic spin noise. Even with these factors, defect-embedded nanocrystal hosts show tremendous promise for quantum sensing and quantum communication applications, with multiple avenues, including core-shell fabrication, redox tuning of oxygen vacancies, and organic surfactant modification, available to further enhance their spin coherence and functionality in the future.

A case of reed syndrome with an unusually extensive cutaneous burden treated with fully ablative Erbium:YAG laser resurfacing therapy.

Reed Syndrome, or hereditary leiomyomatosis and renal cell carcinoma syndrome, is a rare, autosomal dominant genetic condition that predisposes individuals to a triad of cutaneous leiomyomas, uterine leiomyomas and renal cell carcinoma. Cutaneous leiomyomas are often the first manifestation of the syndrome, occurring in 76% of patients and average 26 in number. We present a case of a 47 year old female with Reed Syndrome with an unusually extensive cutaneous burden, with a total of 361 cutaneous lesions, far above the average reported number of 26. Due to the extent of her cutaneous burden, painful nature of the lesions and failure to respond to standard therapies, she was referred for fully ablative Erbium:Yag laser resurfacing therapy. The use of fully ablative Erbium:YAG laser resurfacing therapy for treatment of cutaneous leiomyomas has not been reported in the literature to date. One year following laser therapy, the treatment area not only began to repigment, but there was also no evidence of cutaneous leiomyomas recurrence or associated pain. Given the effectiveness of this unique therapy, fully ablative Erbium:YAG laser resurfacing should be kept in mind as a treatment option for both cosmetic and symptomatic cutaneous leiomyomas.

Synthesis, structural, and optical behavior of erbium-doped silicophosphate glasses for photonics applications.

Erbium-incorporated silicophosphate glasses are very desirable in principal sectors such as photonics, optoelectronics, lasers, and illuminating diodes. The focus of the current investigation has been on determining how the erbium dopant affects the optical, physical, and structural characteristics of the silicophosphate-based glasses. The pure silicophosphate glasses and doped with various contents of erbium were prepared by the sol-gel process in this work. The noncrystalline character of the glasses synthesized was confirmed by the XRD patterns that were obtained. The optical measurement showed that the addition of trivalent erbium ions resulted in an increase in the refractive index of the samples and a decrease in their energy band gap values. It demonstrated the presence of P-O-P linkage stretching vibration modes that were both symmetrical and asymmetrical, P-O in PO4 bending vibration modes, OH group elongating and flexure vibrations, and P-O-H water absorption in glasses. The theoretical values of the optical basicity (Ʌth) increased from 0.465 to 0.472, while the values of the interaction parameter (A) decreased from 0.218 to 0.214 Š- 3 $$ {\overset{\ocirc }{\mathrm{A}}}^{-3} $$ . Silicophosphate glasses doped with trivalent erbium ions show promise as optoelectronic and optical filter system materials.

Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Optical and Magnetic Properties of the New Quaternary Erbium Telluride EuErCuTe3: Experiment and Calculation.

This paper reports for the first time on a new layered magnetic heterometallic erbium telluride EuErCuTe3. Single crystals of the compound were obtained from the elements at 1120 K using CsI as a flux. The crystal structure of EuErCuTe3 was solved in the space group Cmcm (a = 4.3086(3) Å, b = 14.3093(9) Å, and c = 11.1957(7) Å) with the KZrCuS3 structure type. In the orthorhombic structure of erbium telluride, distorted octahedra ([ErTe6]9-) form two-dimensional layers (Er(Te1)2/2e(Te2)4/2k-)∞2, while distorted tetrahedra ([CuTe4]7-) form one-dimensionally connected substructures (Cu(Te1)2/2e(Te2)2/1t5-∞1) along the [100] direction. The distorted octahedra and tetrahedra form parallel two-dimensional layers (CuErTe32-∞2) between which Eu2+ ions are located in a trigonal-prismatic coordination environment (EuTe610-). The trigonal prisms are connected by faces, forming chains (Eu(Te1)2/2(Te2)4/22-∞1) along the [100] direction. Regularities in the variations in structural parameters were established in the series of erbium chalcogenides (EuErCuCh3 with Ch = S, Se, and Te) and tellurides (EuLnCuTe3 with Ln = Gd, Er, and Lu). Ab-initio calculations of the crystal structure, phonon spectrum, and elastic properties of the compound EuErCuTe3 were performed. The types and wavenumbers of fundamental modes were determined, and the involvement of ions in the IR and Raman modes was assessed. The experimental Raman spectra were interpreted. The telluride EuErCuTe3 at temperatures below 4.2 K was ferrimagnetic, as were the sulfide and selenide derivatives (EuErCuCh3 with Ch = S and Se). Its experimental magnetic characteristics were close to the calculated ones. The decrease in the magnetic phase transition temperature in the series of the erbium chalcogenides was discovered.

The Influence of Erbium Laser Pretreatment on Dentin Shear Bond Strength and Bond Failure Modes: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis.

PURPOSE: To systematically review in-vitro studies that evaluated the influence of erbium laser pretreatment on dentin shear bond strength (SBS) and bond failure modes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Electronic databases (PubMed, Cochrane Central, Embase, and Web of Science) were searched. Only in-vitro studies involving erbium laser irradiation of the dentin surface and SBS testing of the bonded resin block were included. The three common modes of bond failure (1. adhesive, 2. cohesive, and 3. mixed) were observed and analyzed. The network meta-analysis (NMA) was performed by Stata 15.0 software, the risk of bias was evaluated, and the certainty of the evidence was assessed by the Confidence in Network Meta-analysis (CINeMA). RESULTS: Forty studies with nine pretreatments (1. blank group: BL; 2. phosphoric acid etch-and-rinse: ER; 3. self-etch adhesive: SE; 4. Er:YAG laser: EL; 5. Er,Cr:YSGG laser: ECL; 6. ER+EL; 7. ER+ECL; 8. SE+EL; 9. SE+ECL) were included in this analysis. The NMA of SBS showed that ER+EL [SMD = 0.32, 95% CI (0.11, 0.98)] had the highest SBS next to ER, especially when using one of the 3M ESPE adhesives, followed by EL, ECL, SE and SE+EL. The Ivoclar Vivadent adhesives significantly increased the SBS of the ECL [SMD = 0.37, 95% CI (0.16,0.90)] and was higher than ER+EL [SMD = 0.25,95% CI (0.07,0.85)]. Finally, the surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) value indicated that ER+EL (SUCRA = 71.0%) and EL (SUCRA = 62.9%) were the best treatments for enhancing dentin SBS besides ER. ER+EL (SUCRA = 85.3%), ER (SUCRA = 83.7%) and ER (SUCRA = 84.3%) had the highest probability of occurring in adhesive, cohesive and mixed failure modes, respectively. CONCLUSION: Er:YAG and Er,Cr:YSGG lasers improved dentin SBS compared to the blank group, especially when the acid etch-and-rinse pretreatment was combined with Er:YAG laser. Shear bond strength and failure mode do not appear to be directly related.

A Clinical and Dermatoscopic Perspective of the Efficacy and Safety of Erbium: YAG Laser Ablation Versus 50% Trichloroacetic Acid for the Management of Xanthelasma Palpebrarum.

Xanthelasma palpebrarum (XP) is a benign cosmetic condition. Although the role of CO2 laser is well described, there are only a few studies on Erbium: YAG in XP. Similarly, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is commonly used in XP. However, there are only a few studies comparing these modalities in the treatment of XP. Aim: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Erbium: YAG laser and 50% TCA in the treatment of XP with the role of dermoscope in the evaluation of lesions. Materials and Methods: A total of 20 subjects were randomly allocated into two groups: group A (TCA) and group B (laser). All patients were subcategorized into three grades viz. I (mild), II (moderate), and III (severe) using a self-devised scoring system. Results: About 25% and 70% of patients achieved complete clearance in groups A and B, respectively (P = 0.017). The rate of recurrence was 40% and 15% in groups A and B. Dyspigmentation and erythema were the most common side effects. Pretreatment dermoscopic evaluation of the lesion showed a network of brown streaks on a background of a yellowish structureless area and was used to assess the area and margins of the lesion where the adipose tissue was found during the procedure and serial assessment of the lesion.

A split-face study comparing the efficacy and tolerability of erbium YAG laser and 70% trichloroacetic acid in facial seborrheic keratosis.

Introduction: Seborrheic keratosis (SK) are benign lesions with cosmetic concerns. Role of TCA and erbium YAG laser has already been described individually in the literature. However, there is a scarcity of data on the comparative evaluation of these two modalities in SK. Aim: The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety profile of Erbium YAG laser ablation with 70% TCA for the treatment of facial SK. Materials and Methods: A total of 50 cases of facial SK were included in the study. Group A included SK lesions on the right side of face treated with Erbium YAG laser ablation while Group B included SK lesions on the left side of face treated with topical 70% trichloroacetic acid. Repeated sessions of laser and TCA application were given at 2-week intervals till cure was achieved or up to a maximum of three sessions. Grading of response to treatment was assessed as complete response (100% clearance), partial response (>50 to 99% improvement), and inadequate or no response (<50% improvement). Results: Complete clearance was observed in 40 (80%) and 29 (58%) cases in Groups A and B, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference in clearance rates between the two groups (P = 0.019). Number of sessions was significantly lesser in laser group (mean ± SD = 1.24 ± 0.43) than in the 70% TCA group (mean ± SD = 1.88 ± 0.79) (P = 0.001). Statistically significant lesser downtime was observed in group A (P = 0.001). Patient satisfaction rate was much higher in group A. Hyperpigmentation was more common in group B (TCA). Conclusion: Although both the treatment modalities achieved good results, erbium YAG laser ablation showed superior results than 70% TCA with better patient satisfaction rates but more downtime. Also, no major adverse effects were observed in the two groups.

The Efficiency of Erbium Lasers in the Removal of Root Canal System and Surface Biofilms: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Background: Studies have shown positive effects of erbium lasers in removal of biofilms. A review article was required with quantitative data for confirmation of their effects, but there is still no a comprehensive study reviewing their effects based on the root canal and implant surface. This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the efficiency of erbium lasers in removal of the root canal system and surface biofilms. Methods: Studies were searched with keywords in databases of PubMed, Scopus, Europe PMC, Cochrane Central, Embase, and Web of Science and screened by referees. Data were included based on mean ± standard deviation and size of control and laser groups. Effect sizes were assessed as standardized mean differences and calculated for each study and for the root and dental surface. Laser characteristics and bacteria were considered as moderators. Results: Nineteen articles in the current study comprised 565 samples (283 control samples and 282 laser samples). The analyses showed the significant effects of erbium lasers on bacterial biofilms on the implant surface [-0.496, 95% confidence interval, CI (-0.720 to -0.273); I2 = 26.94; p = 0.029; Q = 13.28] and root canal [-0.551, 95% CI (-0.656 to -0.445); I2 = 23.89; p = 0.031; Q = 10.46]. Results showed that highest efficiency lasers were obtained at higher wavelengths of 2940 nm, 75-100 mJ energy, and 100-150 µsec and <50-Hz pulses. Conclusions: Erbium lasers can be used to remove biofilms on dental implant surfaces and root canal systems and are safe options for untouchable sites in the root canal.

The Potential of Non-ablative Erbium (YAG) Laser Treatment for Complications After Midurethral Sling Surgery: A Narrative Review.

Midurethral sling (MUS) surgery, using tension-free vaginal tape and transobturator tape, has been widely adopted for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence (SUI). However, postoperative complications, including persistent urinary incontinence, mesh exposure, and pain, have become problematic, and surgical treatments for these complications face challenges, such as invasiveness, treatment-resistant cases, and recurrence. This review provides an overview of the current evidence regarding these complications and the potential of vaginal non-ablative erbium (YAG) laser (VEL) treatment as a minimally invasive option with low risk of complications. Studies have suggested the effectiveness of VEL treatment, performed using devices such as IncontiLase (SP Dynamis; Fotona d.o.o., Ljubljana, Slovenia), for persistent urinary incontinence after MUS surgery, pain following mesh removal, and asymptomatic mesh exposure. VEL treatment is expected to be a new treatment option for complications following MUS surgery; however, further large-scale comparative trials are required to verify its efficacy and safety and to establish criteria for its indications. Appropriate assessment of the indications and provision of sufficient information to patients is important when presenting VEL as a treatment option.

Switchable Single- to Multiwavelength Conventional Soliton and Bound-State Soliton Generated from a NbTe2 Saturable Absorber-Based Passive Mode-Locked Erbium-Doped Fiber Laser.

As a member of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), NbTe2 has a work function of 5.32 eV and a band gap of 0 eV at the Fermi level, which enables it to possess broadband absorption characteristics and has huge potential in optoelectronic devices. In this work, a combination of liquid phase exfoliation (LPE) and optical deposition methods (ODMs) were used to fabricate a NbTe2 saturable absorber (SA). Based on the NbTe2 SA, a ring passive mode-locked erbium-doped fiber laser (PML-EDFL) was constructed by adding NbTe2 SA into the laser cavity. A switchable single- to multiwavelength (dual/triple/quadruple) conventional soliton (CS) and a bound-state soliton (BS) were observed for the first time. The results reveal that NbTe2 SA has excellent saturable absorption characteristics (modulation depth of 2.6%, saturation intensity of 177.4 MW/cm2, and unsaturated loss of 63.8%) and can suppress mode competition and stabilize multiwavelength oscillation. This study expands the applications of NbTe2 nanosheets in ultrafast optoelectronics. The proposed switchable PML-EDFL has extensive applications in high-capacity all-optical communication, high-sensitivity optical fiber sensing, high-precision spectral measurements, and high-energy-efficiency photon neural networks.