Improving the initial biocompatibility of a titanium surface using an Er,Cr:YSGG laser-powered hydrokinetic system

Objectives: This study was designed to improve the initial biocompatibility of titanium (Ti) using an Er,Cr:YSGG-powered hydrokinetic system. Methods: The Er,Cr:YSGG-powered hydrokinetic system with different laser energy densities, 125 and 190 J/cm2, were applied to the Ti substrate. Human osteosarcoma U2-OS cells were used. The difference in the attached cell number between 3- and 1-days cell culture was calculated and defined as the initial cell proliferation index (CPI). The initial CPI was statistically analyzed using one-way analysis of variance with the factor of applied laser energy density. The surface spreading morphology of the attached cells after 1 day incubation was observed using a field-emission scanning electron microscope. Results: The Er,Cr:YSGG laser-treated Ti had a higher (1.2-1.3 times) initial CPI (P < 0.001) and better cell spreading morphology than the untreated Ti. Treating the Ti with higher Er,Cr:YSGG laser energy did not significantly improve the CPI and cell spreading morphology. Significance: The initial biocompatibility of the Ti surface could be improved using an Er,Cr:YSGG laser-powered hydrokinetic system.