Piezoelectric Surgery
Pronunciation: pee-AY-zoh-EL-ek-trik
A bone-cutting technique that uses ultrasonic vibrations from a piezoelectric device to selectively cut mineralised tissue while sparing adjacent soft tissues.
Full Definition
Piezoelectric surgery employs a handpiece that converts electrical energy into mechanical ultrasonic vibrations, allowing precise cutting of bone without damaging nerves, vessels, or mucosa. In implant dentistry, it is used for osteotomy preparation, sinus membrane elevation, ridge splitting, and bone harvesting. The selectivity of the cutting action—active only on calcified tissue—makes it particularly valuable near the inferior alveolar nerve or sinus floor. Editors should note that 'piezosurgery' (one word, lowercase unless a brand name) and 'piezoelectric surgery' are used interchangeably in the literature. 'Piezosurgery' is also a registered trademark (Mectron) and should be capitalised when referring specifically to that brand.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalise 'Piezosurgery' only when referring to the Mectron brand; use lowercase 'piezosurgery' as a generic technique descriptor.
In Context
- "Piezoelectric surgery was selected for the lateral window osteotomy to minimize the risk of Schneiderian membrane perforation." — Sinus augmentation case report
- "The use of piezoelectric surgery during ridge splitting was associated with reduced post-operative swelling compared with conventional chisels." — Comparative clinical study