Characterization of irrigation dynamics in passive ultrasonic and pressurized irrigation methods in a root canal using a microfluidic device

This study reports an innovative method for the characterization of irrigant flows in a root canal model using microfluidic devices. Irrigation plays an important role in successful endodontic treatment. A more thorough understanding of different modes of irrigation will aid in disinfection during root canal treatment. An assessment method using root canal reconstruction, soft-lithography replication and micro particle image velocimetry has been established to compare the fluid dynamics associated with pressurized or syringe-based irrigation and passive ultrasonic irrigation. The velocity magnitude and the shear rate on the root canal wall using these modes of irrigation are evaluated and the results suggest ultrasonic irrigation creates stronger velocity (0.006 m/sec for PUI vs. 0.003 m/sec for pressurized injection) toward the apical part of the canal and also higher shear rate/stress on the canal wall along its file which will aid in endodontic disinfection.