# Electrolytic Cleaning of Dental Implants: A Scoping Review of Clinical Studies

## TL;DR

This review examines how effective electrolytic cleaning is for treating dental implant infections, finding mixed results and a need for better guidelines.

## Contribution

The study provides a systematic analysis of electrolytic cleaning's efficacy for peri-implantitis, highlighting the lack of consistent clinical protocols.

## Key findings

- Disease resolution was reported in only one study, while others noted peri-implantitis recurrence.
- Re-osseointegration of treated implants was observed in all selected studies.
- The limited and varied nature of studies makes it hard to confirm electrolytic cleaning's effectiveness.

## Abstract

Background/Objectives: This literature review aims to systematically analyze the efficacy of electrolytic cleaning for treating peri-implantitis, including its impact on disease resolution, re-osseointegration of treated implants, and peri-implantitis recurrence. It also compares various study and treatment protocols used in the selected papers. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in MEDLINE (via PubMed) and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials using the keywords “electrolytic cleaning implant” or “GalvoSurge”. Studies published until 31 December 2024 were considered for inclusion. Results: Out of 141 articles retrieved, four publications were selected for the review. These studies were analyzed for implant type, number, evaluation methods, observation periods, surgical procedures, and additional treatments. Disease resolution was reported in one study, while peri-implantitis recurred in the remaining studies. However, re-osseointegration of treated implants was observed in all selected papers. Conclusions: Due to the limited and heterogeneous nature of the studies, it is difficult to draw definitive conclusions about the effectiveness of electrolytic cleaning as a treatment for peri-implantitis. To ensure consistent trial outcomes and improve predictability, clear clinical guidelines and surgical protocols for electrolytic decontamination are essential.