Effect of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy in open flap debridement in the treatment of peri-implantitis: A randomized controlled trial

Background: To evaluate the effects of single application of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) as an adjunct to open flap debridement (OFD) and OFD alone in patients with peri-implantitis (PI). Materials and Methods: Twenty four patients with PI were divided into 2 groups receiving aPDT with OFD and OFD alone respectively. Peri-implant plaque index (PI), bleeding on probing (BOP), pocket depth (PD) and marginal bone level (MBL) were assessed at baseline, 6 and 12 months post-therapy. Digital periapical radiographs were taken and viewed on a calibrated computer screen using a software for the assessment of MBL. Only single implant from each patient was included in the study protocol (intent to treat analysis). Results: At baseline, peri-implant PI, BOP, PD and MBL were comparable among individuals in aPDT and OFD groups. All patients had localized peri-implant PD ≥5 mm. At 6 months, aPDT and OFD significantly reduced peri-implant PI, BOP, PD and MBL. Similarly, after 12 months post-therapy, both groups reduced PI, BOP, PD and MBL. However, there was no significant difference between aPDT and OFD groups over time. Conclusion: Single application of aPDT as an adjunct to OFD does not provide additional benefit in improving clinical and radiographic peri-implant parameters in peri-implantitis.