Light-Based Devices for Wound Healing

Photobiomodulation and diabetic foot and lower leg ulcer healing: A narrative synthesis

PURPOSE

To provide a comprehensive narrative review and critical appraisal of research investigating photobiomodulation (PBM), formerly known as low level laser therapy which includes lasers and light emitting diodes (LEDs), as a treatment to promote diabetic foot and lower leg ulcer (DFU) healing for humans.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Pubmed, CINAHL, Scopus, and OVID Medline databases were used to find relevant studies published between January 2000 and January 2020. Reference lists of identified articles were scanned for additional studies that might have been missed in the database searches.

RESULTS

A total of 13 studies, with a total of 417 participants, were included in this review.

DISCUSSION

The studies were critically appraised using the PEDro scale, which revealed weaknesses in study designs such as small sample sizes and problems with reproducibility with respect to the laser protocols. Characteristics of PBM that improved wound healing were wavelengths of 630 nm-660 nm and infrared wavelengths of 850 or 890 nm, and radiant exposure levels of 3 J/cm²-7 J/cm². PBM was beneficial for superficial and deep DFUs. Controlled blood glucose levels and adherence to best practices (pressure off-loading, optimized wound dressing changes, appropriate debridement, etc.) could have been a factor in the beneficial outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Regardless of the laser characteristics chosen, in the majority of studies PBM as a treatment for DFUs improved healing rate when compared with standard wound care alone. However, weaknesses across the studies indicate that further research is required.

Current Applications and Future Perspectives of Fluorescence Light Energy Biomodulation in Veterinary Medicine

The purpose of this review is to determine the state of the art of the mode of action and potential applications of fluorescence photobiomodulation in veterinary medicine. After a summary of the assets that have led the translation of such light-based therapies from bench side into clinical use, recent advances in canine dermatology using this brand-new approach are presented, and future scenarios where this type of care may provide benefits over the current standard care are highlighted.