ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: To evaluate wound healing in rats by using low-level laser therapy (LLLT) associated with hydrocolloid occlusive dressing. METHODS: Forty male, adult, Wistar rats were used, distributed into four groups: LG (received 2 J/cm² of laser therapy); HG (treated with hydrocolloid); LHG (treated with 2 J/cm² of laser therapy and hydrocolloid); and the CG (treated with 1 mL of 0.9% saline). The wound was evaluated at pre-determined periods 3rd and 7th days, considering the macroscopic and histological parameters (inflammatory cells, capillary neoformation, fibroblasts, collagen formation and reepithelialization).RESULTS: The LG group at seven days showed increased collagen formation, the LHG group at 3 days showed mild collagen formation. The HG group and the CG at 7 days showed complete reepithelialization.CONCLUSION: Low-level laser therapy as well as the hydrocolloid dressing have favored the wound-healing process in rats.