The use of CO2 laser in osseous tissue to execute osteotomies is still questionable, mainly due to the increase of temperature in the site of irradiation. The purpose of this research was to carry out a pilot study in order to analyze macroscopically the effect of CO2 laser irradiation on rat tibia and to establish security parameters regarding power. Twelve rats were submitted to irradiation with 1, 3 and 5 watts of power and were examined immediately, 3, 7 and 14 days after irradiation. The results showed better healing when irradiation was carried out with the power of 1 watt; the 3- and 5-watt powers caused delay in the chronology of healing.
Lasers; Carbon dioxide; Potency; Bone and bones