Recent investigations have demonstrated that opportunistic fungi, such as Candida albicans, are associated with the contamination of implantable devices, biofilm formation, and consequent resistance to antimicrobial treatment. Preventing biofilm formation on implantable device surfaces represents a significant challenge in medicine and dentistry. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) treatment on Ti-6Al-4V alloy surfaces, sterilized in an autoclave at 120 °C for 20 min in surgical-grade paper packaging, focusing on their potential to optimize surface physicochemical properties and reduce C. albicans colonization. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) revealed the formation of Ti-O-H peaks and the oxidation of titanium (Ti³⁺ to Ti⁴⁺) on CAP-treated surfaces. Sessile drop tests demonstrated a significant improvement in wettability, with a reduction in contact angle (68.94° vs 36.1°, p < 0.05). Microbiological assays showed a reduction in C. albicans colony-forming units (CFUs) (42,500 ± 8,838 vs 24,000 ± 7,920; p < 0.05) and a decrease in pseudohyphae formation (32.7 ± 9.7 vs 11.6 ± 1.8; p < 0.05). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) further confirmed a reduction in yeast aggregates on treated surfaces incubated with fungal strains for 90 min. Data normality was assessed using the Shapiro-Wilk test, and statistical comparisons were performed with t tests at a significance level of p < 0.05. These findings suggest that CAP is a promising tool for enhancing surface wettability and reducing fungal contamination on Ti-6Al-4V implants sealed in surgical-grade paper, offering potential benefits for medical and dental applications.

Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) is emerging as an innovative approach for cancer treatment because of its selectivity for malignant cells and absence of significant adverse effects. While modern oncological therapies face challenges such as tumor heterogeneity and treatment resistance, CAP presents itself as a low-cost and environmentally sustainable alternative. Its mechanisms of action involve reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS), UV radiation, and electromagnetic fields, which induce cell death. Preclinical and clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of CAP, with devices such as dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) and the plasma jet developed to minimize damage to healthy cells. Some CAP devices are already approved for clinical use, showing safety and efficacy. However, the standardization of treatments remains a challenge due to the variety of devices and parameters used. Although CAP has shown promising cytotoxic effects in vitro and in animal models, especially in different cancer cell lines, further research, particularly in vivo and in veterinary medicine, is needed to optimize its clinical use and maximize its efficacy in combating cancer.