ATR-FTIR spectroscopy to study the effects of laser irradiation in bone tissue

The use of lasers on bone cut can provide a series of advantages for both the surgeon and the patient. However, for a safe and efficient application it is necessary to know the exact effects that the laser causes in the bone tissue. The aim of this work was to study the effects of Er,Cr:YSGG irradiation in bone tissue using the ATR-FTIR technique. Pieces of tibia rabbit bone were divided in six groups with three samples per group. In one of the groups the samples did not undergo any treatment; in the others the samples were laser irradiated with different energy densities. The infrared spectra acquisition was made using an ATR accessory. For a semi-quantitative analysis, the area under each band was calculated and normalized by the phosphate band area of the same spectrum. The results showed a gradual material loss as the energy density increased in the bands of water, amide I, and carbonate, amide II, amide II and collagen. This is probably caused by the temperature rise due to laser irradiation. These results are the first steps in testing the Er,Cr:YSGG laser efficacy as a cutting tool, a pivotal aspect of its consolidation in clinical procedures.