O uso da fluxometria laser doppler como método diagnóstico na avaliação da vitalidade pulpar: uma revisão de literatura

Abstract

The evaluation of pulp vitality is essential in the diagnosis and planning of cases in dentistry. Currently, sensitivity tests are commonly used in clinical practice to determine whether the pulp is vital or non-vital. However, the literature highlights that blood supply is the most accurate variable in determining the presence or absence of pulp vitality, regardless of neuronal response. Therefore, tests that assess pulp blood flow (PBF), such as Laser Doppler Flowmetry (LDF) and pulse oximetry (PO), are the most indicated for evaluating pulp status. Thus, the aim of this study is to review the literature on the use of Laser Doppler Flowmetry as a diagnostic method for assessing pulp vitality. A search of articles was conducted using the PubMed database, covering the period from 1986 to 2019, using the terms: "pulp blood flow", "pulp vitality" and "Laser Doppler Flowmetry". The literature emphasizes that LDF is an objective and non-invasive method that shows promising results in various clinical situations, such as trauma, long-term follow-up, and pediatric use. However, it is important to recognize the limitations of the method and the variables that can interfere with the results, such as signal contamination and the lack of reliable reading and interpretation standards. It can be concluded that LDF is a promising method for pulp diagnosis, however, further studies are needed to minimize interferences and establish reliable and reproducible parameters for data reading and interpretation.