PIPS

PIPS technique is used for debriding and decontamination of the endodontic system. During the canal preparation, the PIPS technique is used between each shaping file step to produce an improved streaming of fluids into the endodontic system.

PIPS Full Form #

Photon induced photoacoustic streaming

PIPS Introduction #

• The primary goal of use of laser activated irrigation is to eliminate the contaminated soft tissue from inside the root canals from all difficult to reach areas

• PIPS is a unique laser application utilizing the Er 2,940 nm wavelength.

• The Er:YAG is used because of its high affinity, chromophore, for water, and its hydroxyl group with low energy levels of 20 mJ creates a significant and profound photo acoustic shock wave that allows for 3-dimensional (3-D) movement of the irrigants without the need to place the tip close to the apical terminus.

• PIPS has significantly demonstrated the ability to remove smear layer, debride canals, lateral tubules, delicate apical morphology, and eliminating bacteria.

• Unlike other laser systems, this application with these specific settings and the unique PIPS tip design yields a non-thermal subablative effect.

PIPS Process #

• When erbium laser energy is derived at only 50 microseconds pulse duration through a special designed tapered and stripped 600 microns diameter and 9mm long tip, it produces a large peak of 400 watts hen compared to longer pulse duration.

• Each impulse, absorbed by water molecules create a strong “shock wave” that leads to formation of an effective streaming of fluids inside the canal.

• Settings need to be very specific.

• PIPS is based on radial firing stripped tip with laser impulses of sub-ablative energies of 20 mj at 15 Hz for an average power of 0.3w at 50 microseconds impulses.

• The impulses create an interaction of water molecules with a peak powers of 400w

• Because of shock waves produced in irrigation solution, it can reach anywhere inside the root canal.

Ultrasonically Activated Irrigation #

• Also called passive ultrasonic irrigation.

• It relies on the transmission of acoustic energy from an oscillating file to an irrigant inside the root canal

• This energy is transmitted by means of ultrasonic waves, inducing acoustic streaming.

• Cleaning efficacy implies effective removal of dentin debris, microorganisms, organic tissues from root canals.

Conclusion #

• PIPS is way much better in biofilm removal using sodium hypochlorite 6% than ultrasonic

• PIPS works perfectly when constant replenishment is required(pulp chamber is cleaned alternatively with sodium hypochlorite, EDTA, water for two or 3 cycles for 30 seconds each)