Laser Therapy: An Alternative Approach for the Management of Halitosis.

Halitosis is the result of combining the Greek word "osis" (pathological alteration) with the Latin phrase "halitus" (breath). No matter what the cause, halitosis can be described as the presence of a foul odour. Effective treatment of halitosis may be facilitated by knowledge of the illnesses and factors that contribute to the condition as well as its symptoms. To properly diagnose and treat patients, healthcare professionals, general practitioners, and dentists must comprehend the cause of the ailment and the best course of treatment. A prevalent issue affecting a large proportion of the global population is halitosis. In 90% of cases, the onset of this illness is oral; however, in 10% of cases, it is systemic. The primary source of the unpleasant smell is the volatile sulphur compounds that Gram-negative bacteria create. The majority of halitosis sufferers find their disease humiliating which makes it difficult for them to go about their daily lives and social lives. A thorough examination was carried out. An evaluation of the tongue was done. The halitosis was treated in afflicted areas using the "Epic Biolase Laser". It is the most robust dental laser and has a low power output which uses a solid-state diode to produce invisible infrared radiation. This device operates aseptically and offers more convenience due to its wireless design, which is powered by a Bluetooth foot pedal. This is used to lower the number of bacteria, and then periodic maintenance is performed to keep them under control. Benefits and outcomes were accomplished. Laser therapy destroys the bacteria that produce volatile compounds and efficiently treats foul breath for a longer period of time. But with a combination of conventional techniques, the results we obtain are even better.

Mathematical Approach to Synergistic Management of Bladder Pain Syndrome/Interstitial Cystitis and Vulvodynia: A Case Series Utilizing Principal Component Analysis, Cluster Analysis, and Combination Laser Therapy.

This case series presents three patients with bladder pain syndrome/interstitial cystitis (BPS/IC) and vulvodynia, demonstrating the efficacy of an individualized treatment approach using cluster analysis and combination laser therapy. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to visualize the dynamic nature of symptom clusters and guide treatment decisions. Case 1 was a 41-year-old woman initially classified as Cluster 1 (PCA coordinates: 1.65, 0.03) transitioned to Cluster 2 (-16.93, -21.75) after bladder hydrodistension. Subsequent Fotona laser (Ljubljana, Slovenia) treatment resulted in the complete resolution of symptoms. Case 2 was a 55-year-old woman, contraindicated for hormone therapy due to breast cancer history, presented as Cluster 2 (PCA coordinates: -24.16, 8.74). Fotona laser treatment shifted her to Cluster 1 (11.22, -20.22), followed by bladder hydrodistension for complete cure. Case 3 was a 49-year-old woman, initially in Cluster 0 (PCA coordinates: 1.892, 30.11), who underwent fulguration for Hunner's lesions. Posttreatment, she moved to Cluster 2 (-24.31, 1.767) and achieved full recovery after Fotona laser therapy. The dynamic nature of symptom clusters, visualized through PCA, guided treatment decisions. The PCA transformation, represented as y =WTz, where z is the standardized symptom vector and W is the principal component matrix, allows for the objective tracking of symptom changes. Combination Fotona laser therapy, including vaginal erbium YAG and neodymium YAG, has proven effective in managing vulvar pain, particularly when hormone therapy is contraindicated. This approach, addressing both urological and gynecological aspects, resulted in sustained symptom improvement for over 12 months in all cases. This case series highlights the synergistic relationship between BPS/IC and vulvodynia, demonstrating the efficacy of comprehensive, adaptive treatment strategies guided by mathematical analysis for complex pelvic pain syndromes.

Real-world outcomes of micropulse transscleral laser therapy in glaucoma patients: Efficacy of initial and repeated treatment, transient intraocular pressure spikes.

Purpose: To investigate the clinical outcomes of micropulse transscleral laser therapy (MP-TLT) in a cohort of glaucoma patients, including safety profile, post-operative transient intraocular pressure (IOP) spikes, long-term efficacy and prognostic factors in terms of IOP-lowering. Methods: This was a retrospective observational cohort study. Medical records of all patients who consecutively underwent MP-TLT between May 2019 and February 2023 at a tertiary referral centre were scrutinised and relevant data were retrospectively analysed. Results: A total of 131 patients (138 eyes) with a mean age of 73.2 ± 14.2 years were included. Mean pre-interventional IOP was 24.1 ± 9.1 mmHg. Within 6-12 h following the intervention on the same day, an IOP spike was regularly observed, reaching on average 31.7 ± 10.3 mmHg (p < 0.001 to baseline). Two years after the intervention, mean IOP was 16.1 ± 5.6 mmHg (p < 0.005 to baseline). In 18 eyes, the treatment was repeated, and the IOP lowering effect was more durable after the second intervention compared to the first one (Cox-Mantel test, p=<0.005). Apart from the transient post-interventional IOP spikes, no severe complications were observed. Conclusions: MP-TLT is associated with significant IOP spikes in the first post-operative hours. Thus, close post-interventional IOP monitoring or even preventive (additional) IOP-lowering treatment may be considered. In the long term, the procedure yields favourable outcomes in terms of safety and IOP reduction. Repeated MP-TLT treatment, if necessary, seems to achieve more sustained IOP reduction than the initial treatment.

Preventive and reparative effects of low-level laser therapy on orthodontically induced inflammatory root resorption-An animal study.

BACKGROUND: Orthodontically induced inflammatory root resorption (OIIRR) is one of the most important side effects of orthodontic treatment. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is a useful way to reduce the orthodontic treatment duration and may have some effect on preventing and repairing OIIRR. However, the specific effects of LLLT on OIIRR remain unknown. OBJECTIVE: Our research aimed to evaluate the Dentin Sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) expression level and root resorption volume during treatment and retention to explore the role of LLLT in preventing and repairing OIIRR. METHODS: Thirty-seven 6-week-old male Sprague-Dawley rats were selected to establish an OIIRR model; the rats were divided into Group B (blank), Group F (force), Group F(LLLT) (force and LLLT), Group F+R (force and retention) and Group F+R(LLLT) (force, retention and LLLT). The root resorption volume of the distal buccal root and mesial root in the maxillary left first molar was calculated by micro-CT, and the DSPP expression level on the compression side of the periodontal ligament was analysed by immunohistochemical staining. RESULTS: The resorption volume in Group F was greater than that in Group F(LLLT). For the mesial root, the volume in Group F was greater than that in Groups F+R and F+R(LLLT). For the distal buccal root, the volume in Groups F and F+R was greater than that in Group F+R(LLLT). The DSPP level in Group F(LLLT) was greater than that in Group F and there was no difference between Groups F+R and F+R(LLLT). CONCLUSIONS: LLLT has a certain preventive effect and a limited reparative effect on OIIRR in rats.

Photodynamic therapy in management of cutaneous leishmaniasis: A systematic review.

This systematic review evaluated the efficacy and safety of photodynamic therapy (PDT) in the management of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL). The electronic search for identification of relevant studies, adhered to the PICOS (Population, Intervention, Comparator, Outcomes and Study type) framework, was conducted through PubMed, Google scholar, Dimensions, X-mol, and Semantic Scholar till December 2023. All types of studies reporting PDT in the management of CL with no language restriction were included. Methodological quality appraised of the selected studies was performed using Jadad index. Of the 317 identified studies, 21 reported PDT for the treatment of CL lesions, consisting of two randomized controlled trials (RCTs), four single-center open study, one case series and 14 case reports. Collectively, these studies presented a total of 304 patients with ages ranging from 1 to 82 years, undergoing varying number of PDT sessions (3-28) and follow-up durations spanning 4 weeks to 24 months. The CL lesions predominantly manifested on the exposed body areas, such as face, limbs, neck, ear and nose, and characterized with the use of clinical variables, such as plaques, papules, erythema and ulceration. PDT protocols differed in the photosensitizer type, incubation time, light source characteristics (e.g., wavelength, output power, and energy density), duration of light illumination, number of PDT sessions and their respective frequencies. Treatment response was assessed through the clinical presentation (i.e., at the baseline and after PDT completion) or by the absence of Leishmania parasites. Adverse effects comprised of pain, burning and tingling sensation experienced during PDT, followed by erythema, pigmentation changes and edema post-treatment. This systematic review revealed that PDT is an efficacious and safe modality for the treatment of CL, with mild and transient side effects.

Treatment of Ulcerative Lesions with Low-level Laser Therapy in a Patient with SARS-CoV-2.

Ulcerated lesions have been observed in SARS-CoV-2 patients and their treatment is a challenge. We aim to report the treatment of oral lesions with low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in a patient with SARS-CoV-2. The patient diagnosed with COVID-19 was admitted to the intensive care unit, on mechanical ventilation, and on a nasogastric tube diet that persisted due to oral lesions. Painful ulcerated lesions, clinically diagnosed as viral ulcer, were found on the tongue, palate, labial commissure, and oropharynx during the oral evaluation. An antimicrobial photodynamic therapy with methylene blue and red laser (high energy) was performed, followed by treatment with LLLT with red laser. Significant clinical improvement of the lesions was observed after seven sessions of LLLT, with the oral diet being reestablished. Oral mucosal lesions in patients with COVID-19 are usually symptomatic and with onset after systemic symptoms. LLLT has been used in the management of these lesions, with promising results.

In-vitro study on type I collagen synthesis in low-level laser therapy on the early ligament fibroblasts' healing process.

BACKGROUND: Low-level Laser Therapy (LLLT) has demonstrated its potential in promoting fiber matrix maturation, collagen synthesis, and fibroblast proliferation, contributing to tissue regeneration. Our study aimed to investigate the impact of LLLT on collagen type I synthesis, cell proliferation, and viability in human ligament fibroblasts derived from the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL). METHODS: Tissue samples were obtained from individuals undergoing arthroscopic ACL reconstruction surgery. Primary human fibroblasts were isolated, and immunohistochemical assays confirmed their characteristics. LLLT at 850 nm was administered in three groups: Low dose (1.0 J/cm²), High dose (5.0 J/cm²), and Control (0.0 J/cm²). Cell viability was calculated using a membrane integrity assay, proliferation was determined by automated counting, and collagen type I concentration in cell culture was measured using an immunoassay. RESULTS: Fibroblasts showed decreased viability after low and high doses of LLLT, increased proliferation at the low dose, and increased collagen synthesis at the high dose on day 10 for both sexes after treatment. CONCLUSION: Our study demonstrated that LLLT may improve the early ligament healing process by increasing cell proliferation at the low dose and enhancing collagen type I synthesis at the high dose in human ligament fibroblasts.

Examining the impact of varying low-level laser dose on cardiac failure.

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has been targeted as a promising tool that can mitigate post-infarction cardiac remodeling. However, there is no gold standard energy delivered to the heart and few studies have evaluated the impact of LLLT on cardiac performance. This study evaluated effects of repeated LLLT applications with different energies delivered to the infarcted myocardium. Echocardiography and hemodynamic measurements were applied to evaluate left ventricular (LV) performance in rats with large infarcts. ELISA, Western blot and biochemical assays were used to assess LV inflammation and oxidative stress. An 830-nm Laser Photon III semiconductor aluminum gallium arsenide diode (DMC, São Carlos, SP, Brazil) was applied transthoracically three times a week for 4 weeks based on the energy (i.e., 10J, 20J, and 40J; respectively). LLLT on 10J and 20J had a similar action in attenuating pulmonary congestion and myocardial fibrosis. Moreover, 10J and 20J attenuated LV end-diastolic pressure and improved +dP/dt and -dP/dt. All LLLT groups had lower levels of inflammatory mediators, but only the 10J group had normalized oxidative stress. All LLLT doses improved superoxide dismutase levels; however, only the 20J group showed a high content of the catalase. There was a lower level of sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ ATPase 2a in the infarcted myocardium, which it was normalized in the 20J and 40J groups. A higher phospholamban content was found in the 10J group. This study supports the beneficial LLLT role post-infarction. Apparently, the 10J and 20J doses show to be chosen for clinical translation.

Outstanding user reported satisfaction for light emitting diodes under-eye rejuvenation.

The under-eye region is an area of significant cosmetic concern. Photobiomodulation (PBM) has emerged as an effective, safe, inexpensive, and convenient treatment for skin rejuvenation. Herein, we aim to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a LED under-eye device for under-eye rejuvenation, as measured by objective and patient reported outcomes. Eleven participants self-administered treatment using a commercially available LED device emitting red (633 nm) and near infrared (830 nm) light for six weeks. Standardized photographs and questionnaires were administered at baseline and six weeks. Photographic digital analysis indicated an improvement in under-eye wrinkles at six weeks compared to baseline, with a reduction in wrinkle score from 20.05 to 19.72. However, this finding was not statistically significant. Participants self-reported consistent improvements in under-eye wrinkles, texture, dark circles, bags, pigmentation, and erythema. All participants reported a high degree of comfortability, ease of use, and satisfaction with the eye device. The participants noted no moderate or severe adverse events and few reports of transient expected outcomes such as mild erythema. The participants' self-reported improvements and high user satisfaction, and the device's favorable safety profile, highlights the benefits of at-home LED devices for under-eye rejuvenation. Future randomized controlled trials with larger sample sizes could further establish the safety and efficacy of at-home LED under-eye treatments.

Peripheral PRP in the Operating Room vs Standard Clinic PRP for the Initial Treatment of PDR.

Purpose: To compare the long-term outcomes of standard panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) performed in the operating room (OR) with peripheral PRP performed in the clinic in treatment-naïve patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). Methods: Consecutive cases from 2017 to 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Exclusion criteria included previous PRP, pars plana vitrectomy performed at the time of the initial PRP, PRP performed in another setting within 3 months of the initial treatment, a documented plan for future PRP at the time of the initial treatment, and less than 3 years of follow-up. Negative binomial regressions were used to compare the number of subsequent interventions between the 2 groups and t tests to compare the visual acuity (VA) outcomes. Results: Of the 961 eyes of 679 patients screened, 82 eyes of 53 patients met the inclusion criteria. The initial PRP was performed in the OR (OR cohort) in 57 eyes of 38 patients and in the clinic (clinic cohort) in 25 eyes of 15 patients. The OR cohort had a mean of 0.4 subsequent surgeries and 0.8 subsequent PRP treatments and the clinic cohort, 0.8 subsequent surgeries (P < .05) and 1.8 subsequent PRP treatments (P < .05). No significant between-group difference was found in the VA outcomes over the long-term follow-up (mean, 44.2 months). Conclusions: Peripheral PRP performed in the OR resulted in fewer subsequent interventions than standard PRP in the clinic and may afford better control of PDR.

The Mechanism of 540 nm Green Light in Promoting Salivary Secretion.

Background: Although low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is a widely used noninvasive treatment because of photobiomodulation effects, its application for xerostomia remained uncertain. Tight junctions (TJs), mainly composed of claudins, occludin, and ZO family members, are crucial structures that determine material transport through paracellular pathway in salivary gland epithelial cells. This work aimed to investigate whether LLLT affected salivary secretion through epithelial TJs. Methods: Transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) measurement and paracellular permeability assay were applied to evaluate paracellular permeability in submandibular gland (SMG)-C6 cells after irradiation with 540 nm green light. Immunofluorescence and western blot were used to detect the expression of TJ proteins. Quantitative phosphoproteomics were performed to explore possible intracellular signals. Results: We found that irradiation with 540 nm green light significantly decreased TER values while increased paracellular transport in SMG-C6 cells. 540 nm green light-induced redistribution of claudin-1, -3, and -4, but not occludin or ZO-1. Moreover, above phenomena were abolished by preincubation with capsazepine, an antagonist of transient receptor potential vanilloid subtype 1. Notably, irradiation with 540 nm green light on the skin covering the whole submandibular gland regions promoted salivary secretion and attenuated lymphocytic infiltration in 21-week-old non-obese diabetic mice (n = 5 per group), a xerostomia animal model for Sjögren's syndrome. Through in-depth bioinformatics analysis and expression verification, ERK1/2 and EphA2 served as potential canonical and noncanonical signals underlying 540 nm green light. Conclusions: Our findings uncovered the novel therapeutic effects of 540 nm green light on xerostomia through regulation on the expression and distribution of TJs.

Unravelling the Complexity of Mucormycosis-A Rare Case Report.

Rationale: Mucormycosis is a rare, life-threatening, invasive fungal infection often referred to as black fungus. It has gained significant attention due to its increasing incidence during the coronavirus pandemic of 2019. Patient Concern: An 8-month-old child, whose identity is being withheld, arrived at our clinic with her parents with the chief complaint of swelling in the upper lip and cheek. Diagnosis: Various laboratory procedures, including blood cultures and imaging scans were performed to determine the presence of mucormycosis. Treatment: Under general anaesthesia, decortication and resection was done surgically, followed by an intraoral elastomeric impression made over the resected region. Soft silicone splints as oral seals for the suckling reflex were made postoperatively within a week. Immediate post-operative therapeutic low-level laser therapy was done. Outcome: Wound healing has been achieved. Take-away Lessons: Multidisciplinary intervention provides the best outcomes for the successful treatment and rehabilitation of paediatric patients with mucormycosis of the facial region.

Acquired Bilateral Nevus of Ota-Like Macules: A Case Report.

Facial melanoses (FM) present complex diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, particularly in the setting of dermal melanocytoses (DM). We present a case that illustrates these challenges as it does not fit within existing classification frameworks. Initially considered as Ota nevus, characterized by blue or dark pigmentation and scleral involvement, histopathological findings suggested acquired bilateral nevus of Ota-like macules (ABNOM). While ABNOM, more common in Asians, rarely affects the sclera or children, recent studies indicate that it may be underdiagnosed in these groups. Differential diagnosis ruled out other FM causes due to mucosal involvement. Correct classification is essential for epidemiological accuracy and treatment decisions, especially given varying responses to Q-switched laser therapy and melanoma risks associated with Ota nevus and ABNOM. While the pathogenesis remains unclear, a two-hit model involving shared melanoma mutations in melanocytes has been proposed and warrants further molecular study.

Regenerative Retinal Laser and Light Therapies (RELITE): Proposal of a New Nomenclature, Categorization, and Trial Reporting Standard.

OBJECTIVES: Numerous laser and light therapies have been developed to induce regenerative processes in the choroid/retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)/photoreceptor complex, leaving the neuroretina undamaged. These therapies are applied to the macula for the treatment of various diseases, most prominently diabetic maculopathy, retinal vein occlusion, central serous chorioretinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration. However, the abundance of technologies, treatment patterns, and dosimetry protocols has made understanding these therapies and comparing different approaches increasingly complex and challenging. To address this, we propose a new nomenclature system with a clear categorization that will allow for better understanding and comparability between different laser and light modalities. We propose this nomenclature system as an open standard that may be adapted in future toward new technical developments or medical advancements. METHODS: A systematic literature review of reported macular laser and light therapies was conducted. A categorization into a standardized system was proposed and discussed among experts and professionals in the field. This paper does not aim to assess, compare, or evaluate the efficacy of different laser or dosimetry techniques or treatment patterns. RESULTS: The literature search yielded 194 papers describing laser techniques, 50 studies describing dosimetry, 272 studies with relevant clinical trials, and 82 reviews. Following the common therapeutic aim, we propose "regenerative retinal laser and light therapies (RELITE)" as the general header. We subdivided RELITE into four main categories that refer to the intended physical and biochemical effects of temperature increase (photothermal therapy, PTT), RPE regeneration (photomicrodisruption therapy, PMT), photochemical processes (photochemical therapy, PCT), and photobiomodulation (photobiomodulation therapy, PBT). Further, we categorized the different dosimetry approaches and treatment regimens. We propose the following nomenclature system that integrates the most important parameters to enable understanding and comparability: Pattern-Dosimetry-Exposure Time/Frequency, Duty Cycle/Irradiation Diameter/Wavelength-Subcategory-Category. CONCLUSION: Regenerative retinal laser and light therapies are widely used for different diseases and may become valuable in the future. A precise nomenclature system and strict reporting standards are needed to allow for a better understanding, reproduceable and comparable clinical trials, and overall acceptance. We defined categories for a systematic therapeutic goal-based nomenclature to facilitate future research in this field.

Advances in the Management of Localized Scleroderma: A Systematic Review of Laser Therapy and Injectable Filler Approaches.

Localized scleroderma (LS), commonly known as morphea, presents a significant clinical challenge due to its chronic, inflammatory nature affecting the skin and potentially underlying tissues. This systematic review explores the innovative approach of combining laser therapy and injectable fillers, specifically hyaluronic acid, for the treatment of LS. We conducted a comprehensive literature review following PRISMA guidelines, examining articles from MEDLINE/PubMed to assess the combined efficacy of these treatments in improving both esthetic and functional outcomes for LS patients. The search yielded 64 articles, with six selected for in-depth analysis for a total of nine patients, covering a range of patient demographics and treatment types. Our review highlights cases where fractional CO2 laser therapy promoted long-term tissue remodeling and instances where hyaluronic acid fillers effectively addressed skin atrophy and volume loss, enhancing both immediate and long-lasting esthetic improvements. The synergy between these treatments suggests a promising dual approach, aiming to maximize esthetic outcomes and to improve the quality of life for LS patients. This review underscores the necessity of further research to establish a comprehensive, evidence-based clinical pathway integrating both treatments for managing LS, thereby enhancing patient satisfaction and addressing the multifaceted nature of this challenging dermatological condition.

Role of Low-Level Laser Therapy in the Management of Temporomandibular Joint Arthralgia.

To study the efficacy of low-level laser therapy in the management of temporomandibular joint arthralgia. Design Interventional study (pre-post study), Setting Meenakshi Medical College And Hospital, Research Institute. Subjects 50 patients with temporomandibular joint arthralgia were evaluated for pain, mouth opening and clicking sound while mouth opening before and after treatment. Method Patients are subjected to undergo low-level laser therapy with Infrared and red rays with a therapeutic dosage ranging from 8 J/cm2 to 15 J/cm2 up to 3-5 sessions for a month each session lasts for 15-20 min. The patients are to be followed up regularly after 1, 3, 6 and 8 months in the study.The study measured the range of mouth opening in patients before and after undergoing low-level laser therapy. Before treatment, the range of mouth opening was from 2.78 to 3.97 cm, with a mean value of 2.78 cm and a standard deviation of 0.22. After treatment, the range of mouth opening was from 2.78 to 3.97 cm, with a mean value of 3.97 cm and a standard deviation of 0.24. The study also measured the VAS score for pain, with a mean and standard deviation of 7.9 ± 0.73 before treatment and 0.88 ± 0.718 after treatment. There was a significant difference between the pretreatment and post-treatment VAS scores, with a P-value of 0.05. Low-level laser therapy is an effective non invasive treatment modality for temporomandibular joint arthralgia. The patients who underwent this procedure had symptomatic relief and no remissions were observed.

Effectiveness of Low-Level Laser Therapy in reducing postoperative pain after dental implant surgery: A randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: A clinical trial was conducted to measure the effectiveness of a combined wavelength of 660 nm and 808 nm Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) in reducing postoperative pain in partially and totally edentulous patients who underwent dental implant surgery. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included 20 blinded individuals divided in a randomized split-mouth fashion; the experimental group in one hemiarch and the control group in the other hemiarch. The experimental group received a total of 22.5 Joules (J) of LLLT divided into 5 points per implant immediately after surgery. The control group received a placebo treatment. At 24 h, 72 h, and 7 days, a blinded surveyor administered a pain questionnaire using a Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) combined with a Verbal Rating Scale (VRS) to assess pain onset after surgery, duration of the first pain episode, and pain evolution. Group data were analyzed with an ANOVA test for repeated measures and a paired t-test at defined time intervals. RESULTS: The experimental group showed a significant decrease in postoperative pain at 24 h and at 72 h for fully edentulous patients. There was a non-significant difference in the duration of the first pain episode. The mean pain levels decreased over time for both the experimental and control treatments, but only statistically significantly for the experimental group in the 24-72 h and 24 h to 7 days intervals. The same was true for the control group when comparing 24 and 72 h and between 24 h and 1 week. The time range between 72 h and 1 week showed no statistically significant differences. CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of this study, a single dose of 22.5 J LLLT per implant helps to decrease postoperative pain in dental implant surgery at 24 h for partially edentulous patients and at 24 and 72 h for fully edentulous patients.

Ultrasound-assisted laser therapy for selective removal of melanoma cells.

The current study explores the potential of ultrasound-assisted laser therapy (USaLT) to selectively destroy melanoma cells. The technology was tested on an ex vivo melanoma model, which was established by growing melanoma cells in chicken breast tissue. Ultrasound-only and laser-only treatments were used as control groups. USaLT was able to effectively destroy melanoma cells and selectively remove 66.41% of melanoma cells in the ex vivo tumor model when an ultrasound peak negative pressure of 2 MPa was concurrently applied with a laser fluence of 28 mJ/cm2 at 532 nm optical wavelength for 5 min. The therapeutic efficiency was further improved with the use of a higher laser fluence, and the treatment depth was improved to 3.5 mm with the use of 1,064 nm laser light at a fluence of 150 mJ/cm2. None of the laser-only and ultrasound-only treatments were able to remove any melanoma cells. The treatment outcome was validated with histological analyses and photoacoustic imaging. This study opens the possibility of USaLT for melanoma that is currently treated by laser therapy, but at a much lower laser fluence level, hence improving the safety potential of laser therapy.

Effectiveness of Low-Level Laser Therapy in Orchialgia After Varicocelectomy Surgery.

Introduction: The management of chronic groin and scrotal content pain (orchialgia) is a complex condition after varicocelectomy that is encountered by most practicing clinicians. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in orchialgia after varicocelectomy surgery. Methods: This study was performed as a double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial in which sixty patients with orchialgia after varicocelectomy were randomly divided into three groups of 20 as follows: (1) low-level laser group with red (650 nm, 50 mW), (2) low-level laser group with infrared (IR) (820 nm, 100 mW), and (3) laser placebo group. The treatment protocol consisted of 15 minutes, three times a week, for only 12 sessions. Then, the patients were evaluated for pain and sexual satisfaction during the 12-week follow-up. Results: The pain score in the two groups of low-level laser with red light and IR spectra showed a significant relief (P<0.05) 6 and 12 weeks after starting the treatment, In addition, a significant increase was observed in the level of sexual satisfaction in the red and infrared spectra LLLT groups (P<0.05). Conclusion: We concluded that the use of LLLT with red light (650 nm, 50 mW)/IR (820 nm, 100 mW) spectra with power of 6-25 J/cm2/day in 15 minutes, three times a week, for 12 sessions can significantly reduce pain and increase sexual satisfaction in these patients.

Efficacy of High-Intensity and Low-Level Laser Therapy Combined With Exercise Therapy on Pain and Function in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis.

Introduction: High-intensity laser therapy (HILT) and low-level laser therapy (LLLT) combined with exercise therapy (ET) have emerged as effective treatment options for musculoskeletal pain. However, there have remained uncertainties regarding the magnitude of their effects in reducing pain and improving function in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Hence, we performed a systematic review and network meta-analysis of available evidence in the literature to answer this query. Methods: A literature search was carried out in Embase, PubMed, and Scopus databases without any language restrictions from 1 January 1990 to 31 December 2023. We examined randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies that investigated the efficiency of HILT or LLLT plus knee osteoarthritis ET in pain and functional improvement of the knee. We performed a network meta-analysis and provided the standardized mean difference (SMD) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) by pooling the continuous data on the visual analogue scale (VAS) pain score and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) function score using a random-effects model. Results: In total, 11 eligible RCTs were included. Our analysis revealed significant improvements in the VAS pain and WOMAC function scores on weeks 4 and 8 after interventions in groups treated with LLLT+ET and HILT+ET compared with placebo+ET. Moreover, HILT+ET showed a greater reduction in the VAS pain score (SMD=-1.41; 95% CI: -2.05 to -0.76) and improvement in the WOMAC function score (SMD=-2.20; 95% CI: -3.21 to -1.19) than LLLT+ET in week 8. Conclusion: Based on our findings, both HILT+ET and LLLT+ET treatments effectively reduced pain and improved function, but HILT+ET showed a more significant improvement in both outcomes compared to LLLT+ET.