A new treatment protocol using XR3T-1 photobiomodulation for stroke patient

The XR3T-1 device is a rebadged THOR system. I trained Ab Boonswang and the ATA clinic staff in LLLT and the device was used off label for this application.  Our FDA clearance is for temporary relief of muscle and joint pain. We have CE mark for Europe and TGA for Australia. These points were not made clear in the BMJ article.

A couple of minor technical points: There is an error in the technical description of the LED treatment head, the reported spot size of 0.196 cm2 should have been started as “per diode” of which there are 69. The total power was 1390mW (not 1400 as reported) which should be divided by the number of LEDs to get an average : 1390mW/ 69 LEDs / 0.196 each LED = an average power density of approx 100mW/cm2. Some would argue that the way to report power density of a cluster is total power by total area of the array in which case the power density would be approx 50mW/cm2.

Congratulations to Dr Boonswang on getting this published, I look forward to further reports in the future.

Here is the BMJ Case Reports abstract

A new treatment protocol using photobiomodulation and muscle/bone/joint recovery techniques having a dramatic effect on a stroke patient’s recovery: a new weapon for clinicians.

Boonswang NA, Chicchi M, Lukachek A, Curtiss D.

Cardiothoracic Surgery Department, Easton Hospital, Easton, Pennsylvania, USA.

Abstract
The subject of this case study is a 29-year-old woman who suffered a brainstem stroke. She remained severely dizzy, had a non-functional left hand secondary to weakness, severe spasticity in the right hand, a right lateral sixth nerve palsy and was unable to ambulate on presentation. The stroke occurred 2 years before presentation. The subject had been treated for 21 months at two different stroke rehabilitation centres before presentation. Our stroke protocol includes photobiomodulation administered with the XR3T-1 device and ‘muscle/bone/joint/soft tissue’ recovery techniques. The patient was seen once a week for 8 weeks and treatment sessions lasted approximately 60 min. The results were dramatic: after 8 weeks of implementation of our protocol, the patient demonstrated positive change in every area of her deficits as determined by improvements in physical examination findings. The gains achieved at 8 weeks have been maintained to this day and she continues to be treated once every 4 weeks.

http://casereports.bmj.com/content/2012/bcr.08.2011.4689.short?g=w_casereports_current_tab

Posted in Research | 2 Comments

Lasers at the olympics

I know of at least 3 teams using THOR lasers at the London Olympics

GB, USA and Australia.

Who else do you know here with a THOR ?

Posted in Special Feature | on Lasers at the olympics

Low Level Laser Therapy LLLT / Cold Laser Literature watch for June 2012

29 papers published in June for you to review including: a meta-analysis of LLLT on joint pain (one of the best results come from an LED study, but this paper refers to it as a laser!), an RCT on hypothyroidism induced by chronic autoimmune thyroiditis, a review of 9 papers on xerostomia and much more.

Meta-Analysis of Pain Relief Effects by Laser Irradiation on Joint Areas.

Jang, H, Lee H

Department of Information and Communications, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology , Gwangju, Republic of Korea.

Abstract Background: Laser therapy has been proposed as a physical therapy for musculoskeletal disorders and has attained popularity because no side effects have been reported after treatment. However, its true effectiveness is still controversial because several clinical trials have reported the ineffectiveness of lasers in treating pain. Methods: In this systematic review, we investigate the clinical effectiveness of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on joint pain. Clinical trials on joint pain satisfying the following conditions are included: the laser is irradiated on the joint area, the PEDro scale score is at least 5, and the effectiveness of the trial is measured using a visual analogue scale (VAS). To estimate the overall effectiveness of all included clinical trials, a mean weighted difference in change of pain on VAS was used. Results: MEDLINE is the main source of the literature search. After the literature search, 22 trials related to joint pain were selected. The average methodological quality score of the 22 trials consisting of 1014 patients was 7.96 on the PEDro scale; 11 trials reported positive effects and 11 trials reported negative effects. The mean weighted difference in change of pain on VAS was 13.96 mm (95% CI, 7.24-20.69) in favor of the active LLLT groups. When we only considered the clinical trials in which the energy dose was within the dose range suggested in the review by Bjordal et al. in 2003 and in World Association for Laser Therapy (WALT) dose recommendation, the mean effect sizes were 19.88 and 21.05 mm in favor of the true LLLT groups, respectively. Conclusions: The review shows that laser therapy on the joint reduces pain in patients. Moreover, when we restrict the energy doses of the laser therapy into the dose window suggested in the previous study, we can expect more reliable pain relief treatments.

Photomed Laser Surg 2012 Jun 29

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22747309

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Low-level laser in the treatment of patients with hypothyroidism induced by chronic autoimmune thyroiditis: a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

Hofling DB, Chavantes MC, Juliano AG, Cerri GG, Knobel M, Yoshimura EM, Chammas MC

Ultrasound Unit, Department of Radiology, University of Sao Paulo Medical School, Hospital das Clinicas, Sao Paulo, 05403-000, Brazil, dbhofling@uol.com.br.

Chronic autoimmune thyroiditis (CAT) is the most common cause of acquired hypothyroidism, which requires lifelong levothyroxine replacement therapy. Currently, no effective therapy is available for CAT. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in patients with CAT-induced hypothyroidism by testing thyroid function, thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb), thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb), and ultrasonographic echogenicity. A randomized, placebo-controlled trial with a 9-month follow-up was conducted from 2006 to 2009. Forty-three patients with a history of levothyroxine therapy for CAT-induced hypothyroidism were randomly assigned to receive either 10 sessions of LLLT (830 nm, output power of 50 mW, and fluence of 707 J/cm(2); L group, n = 23) or 10 sessions of a placebo treatment (P group, n = 20). The levothyroxine was suspended 30 days after the LLLT or placebo procedures. Thyroid function was estimated by the levothyroxine dose required to achieve normal concentrations of T(3), T(4), free-T(4) (fT(4)), and thyrotropin after 9 months of postlevothyroxine withdrawal. Autoimmunity was assessed by measuring the TPOAb and TgAb levels. A quantitative computerized echogenicity analysis was performed pre- and 30 days postintervention. The results showed a significant difference in the mean levothyroxine dose required to treat the hypothyroidism between the L group (38.59 +/- 20.22 mug/day) and the P group (106.88 +/- 22.90 mug/day, P < 0.001). Lower TPOAb (P = 0.043) and greater echogenicity (P < 0.001) were also noted in the L group. No TgAb difference was observed. These findings suggest that LLLT was effective at improving thyroid function, promoting reduced TPOAb-mediated autoimmunity and increasing thyroid echogenicity in patients with CAT hypothyroidism.

Lasers Med Sci 2012 Jun 21

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22718472

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Effect of the intravascular low energy laser illumination during percutaneous coronary intervention on the inflammatory process in vascular wall.

Derkacz A, Protasiewicz M, Poreba R, Doroszko A, Andrzejak R

Department of Internal Medicine, Occupational Diseases and Hypertension, Wroclaw Medical University, Borowska 213 Street, 50-556, Wroclaw, Poland, arkadiusz.derkacz@am.wroc.pl.

The angioplasty procedure is associated with a release of numerous factors triggering the local inflammatory reaction in vascular wall and leading thus to the restenosis. In this study, we hypothesize that the low-energy laser irradiation may exert beneficial effect by limiting this process. A group of 101 subjects (75 men and 26 women, mean age: 59.1 +/- 10.3) treated with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), were recruited to this study. While 52 patients (40 men and 12 women) were subjected to the intravascular low-energy laser irradiation (lambda = 808 nm) of dilated lesion during the PCI, the remaining patients (35 men and 14 women) constituted the control group. The levels of interleukin 1beta, 6 and 10 (IL 1beta, IL 6 and IL 10) were measured immediately before the procedure, and then at the 6th, 12th hour as well as after 1 month following the PCI. Significantly lower levels of IL 1beta and IL 6 in the irradiated group during each analysis after the procedure were observed. Moreover, significantly lower IL 10 level in irradiated group within 6 and 12 hours after PCI was observed. Irradiation of the lesion with low-energy laser radiation during the PCI procedure results in a decrease in the levels of pro-inflammatory IL 1beta and IL 6 as well as in an increase in the levels of anti-inflammatory IL 10, which may result in decreased risk for restenosis.

Lasers Med Sci 2012 Jun 26

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22733406

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[The effects of low-level laser therapy on xerostomia (mouth dryness)].

Pavlic V

Katedra za parodontologiju i oralnu medicinu, Medicinski fakultet, Univerzitet u Banjaluci. dr.vericapavlic@gmail.com

INTRODUCTION: Xerostomia is a subjective complaint of mouth/oral dryness, caused by a reduction in normal salivary secretion due to different causes. Even though there are many available treatment modalities to enhance salivary flow, the therapy often remains unsatisfactory. The low-level laser therapy (low-level laser irradiation, photo-biomodulation) has been extensively used as a new, non-invasive approach and advantageous tool for reduction of xerostomia. Therefore, the aim of this study is to give a systematic overview on the effects of low-level laser therapy on xerostomia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A systematic review of published articles in PubMed database was carried out using keywords: “low-level laser therapy”, “xerostomia”, “mouth dryness”. RESULTS: In all published articles, which were considered adequate for this overview, positive effects of low-level laser therapy were reported. Low-level laser therapy could significantly enhance salivary secretion and improve antimicrobial characteristics of secreted saliva (increased level of secretory immunoglobulin A; sIgA). Furthermore, low-level laser therapy could improve salivary flow and regeneration of salivary duct epithelial cells. CONCLUSION: The current literature suggests that low-level laser therapy can be safely and effectively used as an advanced treatment modality for reduction of xerostomia. Further in vivo, in vitro and clinical studies using different irradiation parameters are suggested to determine the best laser parameters to be used.

Med Pregl 2012 May-Jun 65(5-6) 247-50

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22730712

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Low-level laser therapy for oral mucous membrane pemphigoid.

Cafaro A, Broccoletti R, Arduino PG

Oral Medicine Section, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Turin, Lingotto Dental School Via Nizza 230, 10126, Turin, Italy.

Lasers Med Sci 2012 Jun 16

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22706567

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[The application of intravenous laser irradiation of the blood for the combined treatment of psoriasis].

Shakhova AS, Kulikov AG, Korsunskaia IM

The objective of the present comparative study was to estimate the efficacy of the treatment of 104 patients presenting with psoriasis with the use of PUVA therapy and intravenous laser irradiation of the blood or the combination of the two methods. It was shown that the latter treatment caused a faster reduction of the inflammatory processes than the former whereas their joint application was especially efficacious in inducing regression of concomitant infiltrative events. Erythrocytes from the patients undergoing intravenous laser irradiation of the blood were characterized by the enhanced activity of antioxidative enzymes that are known to play an important role in the cellular protection from oxidants. At the same time, PUVA therapy caused no appreciable changes in the antioxidtive status. Both treatments increased the levels of antiinflammatory cytokines and decreased those ofproinflammatory ones which suggests their immunomodulatory effect that was especially pronounced in the case of combined therapy. It is concluded that the introduction of intravenous laser irradiation of the blood in the combined treatment of psoriatic patients exerts positive effect on compromised immunoregulation, stimulates the antioxidative system, and improves microcirculation.

Vopr Kurortol Fizioter Lech Fiz Kult 2012 Jan-Feb (1) 24-8

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22693740

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[The use of the medical rehabilitation technology for the correction of microcirculatory disorders in the patients presenting with gonarthrosis].

Kul’chitskaia DB, Konchugova TV, Minenkov AA, kolbaia LI

The objective of the present study was to estimate the efficacy of pulsed laser radiation from a matrix radiator for the treatment of patients suffering osteoarthrosis of the knee joint. A total of 25 patients aged from 50 to 75 years with I-II stage gonarthrosis (GA) were enrolled (20 without synovitis and 5 with mild synovitis). Nineteen patients presented with oligoosteoarthrosis and six with polyosteoarthrosis. The state of capillary blood flow was assessed from the results of laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) using a LAKK-01 laser analyzer of surface capillary blood flow (NPP “LAZMA”, Russia). Prior to the treatment, all the patients with gonarthrosis had microcirculatory disturbances; based on their character, the patients were allocated to two groups in accordance with the classification proposed by V.I. Makolkin. Group 1 was comprised of the patients (92%) with the hyperemic type of microcirculation while group 2 included patients (8%) with its normnnocirculatory type. A single course of pulsed laser therapy resulted in the appearance of the signs of normalization of capillary blood flow. LDF revealed a physiological response of microvessels to pulsed laser radiation that manifested itself in the first place as the improvement of active mechanisms of regulation of microcirculation.

Vopr Kurortol Fizioter Lech Fiz Kult 2012 Jan-Feb (1) 14-6

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22693737

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Laser Therapy may be Better Than Topical Desensitizing Agents for Treating Dentin Hypersensitivity.

Blatz MB

Professor of Restorative Dentistry, Chairman, Department of Preventive and Restorative Sciences, Robert Schattner Center, University of Pennsylvania, School of Dental Medicine, 240 S. 40th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104, Phone: 215-573-3959.

ARTICLE TITLE AND BIBLIOGRAPHIC INFORMATION: Effectiveness of laser therapy and topical desensitising agents in treating dentine hypersensitivity: a systematic review. He S, Wang Y, Li X, Hu D. J Oral Rehabil 2011;38(5):348-58. REVIEWER: Markus B. Blatz, DMD, PhD, Dr med dent habil PURPOSE/QUESTION: To determine the effectiveness of laser therapy as compared with topical desensitizing agents for the treatment of patients with dentin hypersensitivity and the safety of laser application based on the relevant studies SOURCE OF FUNDING: Information not available TYPE OF STUDY/DESIGN: Systematic review LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 2: Limited-quality, patient-oriented evidence STRENGTH OF RECOMMENDATION GRADE: Grade B: Inconsistent or limited-quality patient-oriented evidence.

J Evid Based Dent Pract 2012 Jun 12(2) 69-70

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22726780

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Orofacial granulomatosis treated with low-level laser therapy: a case report.

Merigo E, Fornaini C, Manfredi M, Meleti M, Alberici F, Corcione L, Buzio C, Rocca JP, Ferri T, Vescovi P

Oral Pathology and Laser-Assisted Surgery Unit, University of Parma, Parma, Italy.

OBJECTIVES: We report a case of orofacial granulomatosis successfully treated with low-level laser therapy (LLLT). STUDY DESIGN: LLLT was delivered through a diode laser device (Lasemar Eufoton, Trieste, Italy) with the use of a 4-cm defocalized lens and power of 1 W. Treatment was administered in sessions of 5 irradiations of 1 minute each, with a 1-minute interval between 2 subsequent irradiations (power density 0.08 W/cm(2); fluence/application: 4.8 J/cm(2); fluence/session: 24 J/cm(2)). Laser therapy was repeated 12 times (3 times per week). RESULTS: After 2 weeks of LLLT applications, the patient reported an improvement of symptomatology as well as a decrease of labial swelling. Complete healing was observed after 1 month. The patient was followed for 2 years. No recurrence of swelling was observed during the follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Advantages of the LLLT approach include an absence of side effects, analgesic properties (usually reported after first application), and good patient compliance.

Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol 2012 Jun 113(6) e25-9

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22668714

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[Moderate and severe sudden deafness treated with low-energy laser irradiation combined with auricular acupoint sticking].

Zhou GY

Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical College, Weihui 453100, Henan Province, China. zhouxiaoguo@yahoo.com.cn

OBJECTIVE: To test the therapeutic effect on moderate and severe sudden deafness treated with low-energy laser irradiation on acupoint and external auditory canal combined with auricular point sticking (APS) and as compared with electroacupuncture. METHODS: Two hundred and fifty-eight cases of moderate and severe sudden hearing loss were randomly divided into an observation group 1, an observation group 2 and a control group, 86 cases in each group. In three groups, 10% low molecular Dextran 500 mL were used for intravenous infusion. Based on the above treatment, the observation group 1 was treated with low-energy laser irradiation on acupoint and external auditory canal (such as Ermen (TE 21), Tinggong (SI 19) and Tinghui (GB 2)), combined with APS at Gan (liver), Shen (kidney) and Neifenmi (endorine), etc. The observation group 2 was treated with electroacupuncture at the same acupoints as those point irradiation in observation group 1. Fifteen days made one session. The therapeutic effects were evaluated after one and two sessions. RESULTS: After two sessions, The cured rate was 40.7% (35/86) in observation group 1 and 38.4% (33/86) in observation group 2,which were superior to 25.6% (22/86) in control group (both P < 0.05). Compared with one session, the therapeutic effects after two sessions were better in two observation groups (both P < 0.05), but there was no significant difference between two groups (both P > 0.05). In comparison of the improvements of frequency audiometry and auditory function, the two observation groups were better than those in control group (P < 0.05, P < 0.01), and the improvements after two sessions were better in two observation groups (both P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Both of low-energy laser irradiation on acupoint and external auditory canal combined with APS and electroacupuncture are able to decrease frequency audiometry, improve auditory function, and the therapeutic effects are better with prolongation of treatment time. The clinical efficacy of above two the rapies on moderate and severe sudden deafness is superior remarkably to that of conventional treatment. The therapy of low-energy laser irradiation on acupoint and external auditory canal combined with APS can replace the electroacupuncture therapy in treating moderate and severe sudden deafness.

Zhongguo Zhen Jiu 2012 May 32(5) 413-6

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22650126

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Closure of non-healing chronic ulcer in Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome using low-level laser therapy.

Dixit S, Maiya AG, Umakanth S, Shastry BA

Department of Physiotherapy, MCOAHS, Manipal University, Karnataka, India.

A 69-year-old man diagnosed with Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome (KTS) reported to the physiotherapy outpatient clinic with the complaint of a non-healing ulcer over the right medial malleolus, for a 6-month duration, that was non-granulating and had moderate pus discharge with foul odour at initial assessment. There was a decrease in scores of the Pressure Ulcer Scale of Healing, a significant increase in granulation tissue, a decrease in the amount of discharge and foul odour along with complete closure of the chronic wound after irradiation with a light-emitting diode (LED). This is a novel case study analysing the possible effect of a helium-neon laser and LEDs on non-healing chronic ulcers associated with KTS, where the complete closure of the chronic ulcer that was initially not responsive to standard medical care was observed.

BMJ Case Rep 2012 2012

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22707702

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Short-term multimodal phototherapy approach in a diabetic ulcer patient.

Chandrasekaran B, Chettri R, Agrawal N, Sathyamoorthy C

Pulmonary Rehabilitation, PSG Institute of Pulmonology, PSG Hospital, Peelamedu, Coimbatore 641004, Tamil Nadu, India. bass_99psg@yahoo.co.in.

Foot ulcers increase morbidity and mortality in diabetic patients. Due to poor healing factors, surgical wound healing is questionable in diabetic patients. We report a patient with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, sensory neuropathy and microangiopathy, who had an infected stump of the right three middle digits and subsequent transmetatarsal amputation. The infected postoperative ulcer was treated with complex phototherapy, including laser and ultraviolet C (UVC) radiations. A total of 23 sessions of low-intensity laser therapy and UVC irradiation were administered over a five-week period. The infected surgical wound healed completely. During the three-month follow-up period, there was no recurrence of the ulcer, although the patient’s metabolic profile remained unstable. Multimodal therapy combining UVC and laser may constitute a useful and side-effect-free alternative treatment modality for the induction of wound healing post metatarsal amputation in patients with unhealed diabetic ulcers.

Singapore Med J 2012 Jun 53(6) e122-4

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22711049

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Effect of low-level laser treatment on cochlea hair-cell recovery after acute acoustic trauma.

Rhee CK, Bahk CW, Kim SH, Ahn JC, Jung JY, Chung PS, Suh MW

Dankook University, Medical Laser Research Center, Cheonan, Republic of Korea.

We investigated the effect of low-level laser radiation on rescuing hair cells of the cochlea after acute acoustic trauma and hearing loss. Nine rats were exposed to noise. Starting the following day, the left ears (NL ears) of the rats were irradiated at an energy output of 100 to 165 mW/cm(2) for 60 min for 12 days in a row. The right ears (N ears) were considered as the control group. Frequency-specific hearing levels were measured before the noise exposure and also after the 1st, 3rd to 5th, 8th to 10th and 12th irradiations. After the 12th treatment, hair cells were observed using a scanning electron microscope. Compared to initial hearing levels at all frequencies, thresholds increased markedly after noise exposure. After the 12th irradiation, hearing threshold was significantly lower for the NL ears compared to the N ears. When observed using an electron microscope, the number of hair cells in the middle turn of the NL ears was significantly larger than that of the N ears. Our findings suggest that low-level laser irradiation promotes recovery of hearing thresholds after acute acoustic trauma.

J Biomed Opt 2012 Jun 17(6) 068002

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22734788

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Low-level laser therapy in collagenase-induced achilles tendinitis in rats: Analyses of biochemical and biomechanical aspects.

Marcos RL, Leal-Junior EC, Arnold G, Magnenet V, Rahouadj R, Wang X, Demeurie F, Magdalou J, de Carvalho MH, Lopes-Martins RA

Laboratory of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo (USP), Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 1524, Butantan, Sao Paulo 05508-900, SP, Brazil; Laboratoire de Physiopathologie, Pharmacologie et Ingenierie Articulaires (LPPIA), UMR 7561 CNRS, Nancy-Universite, Nancy, France.

NSAIDs are widely prescribed and used over the years to treat tendon injuries despite its well-known long-term side effects. In the last years several animal and human trials have shown that low-level laser therapy (LLLT) presents modulatory effects on inflammatory markers, however the mechanisms involved are not fully understood. The aim of this study was to evaluate the short-term effects of LLLT or sodium diclofenac treatments on biochemical markers and biomechanical properties of inflamed Achilles tendons. Wistar rats Achilles tendons (n = 6/group) were injected with saline (control) or collagenase at peritendinous area of Achilles tendons. After 1 h animals were treated with two different doses of LLLT (810 nm, 1 and 3 J) at the sites of the injections, or with intramuscular sodium diclofenac. Regarding biochemical analyses, LLLT significantly decreased (p < 0.05) COX-2, TNF-alpha, MMP-3, MMP-9, and MMP-13 gene expression, as well as prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2) ) production when compared to collagenase group. Interestingly, diclofenac treatment only decreased PGE(2) levels. Biomechanical properties were preserved in the laser-treated groups when compared to collagenase and diclofenac groups. We conclude that LLLT was able to reduce tendon inflammation and to preserve tendon resistance and elasticity. (c) 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res.

J Orthop Res 2012 Jun 5

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22674405

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The Effects of Low-Level Laser Therapy, 670 nm, on Epiphyseal Growth in Rats.

de Andrade AR, Meireles A, Artifon EL, Brancalhao RM, Ferreira JR, Bertolini GR

Laboratory of the Study of Injuries and Physiotherapy Resources, State University of Western Parana (UNIOESTE), Rua Universitaria 2069, Jd. Universitario, P.O. Box 711, 85819-110 Cascavel, PR, Brazil.

The longitudinal growth of long bones is attributed to epiphyseal growth. However, the effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in such structures has still not been studied extensively in the literature. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the use of LLLT, 670 nm, at three different doses on the epiphyseal growth of the right tibia of rats. Twenty-one Wistar rats, aged four weeks, were subjected to the application of LLLT, with dosage according to the group (G4: were submitted to the application of 4 J/cm(2); G8: were submitted to the application of 8 J/cm(2); G16: were submitted to the application of 16 J/cm(2)). After completion of protocol they were kept until they were 14 weeks of age and then submitted to a radiological examination (evaluation of limb length) and euthanised. The histological analysis of the growth plates (total thickness and hypertrophic and proliferative zones) was then performed. Comparisons were made with the untreated left tibia. No differences were observed in any of the reviews (radiological and histological), when comparing the right sides (treated) to the left (untreated). It was concluded that the treatment with LLLT within the parameters used caused changes neither in areas of the epiphyseal cartilage nor in the final length of limbs.

ScientificWorldJournal 2012 2012 231723

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22654576

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Effects of 830 and 670 nm Laser on Viability of Random Skin Flap in Rats.

Prado RP, Garcia SB, Thomazini JA, Piccinato CE

1 Department of Physiotherapy, Federal University of Goias , Campus Jatai, Goias, Brazil .

Abstract Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effect of 830 and 670 nm diode laser on the viability of random skin flaps in rats. Background data: Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has been reported to be successful in stimulating the formation of new blood vessels and reducing the inflammatory process after injury. However, the efficiency of such treatment remains uncertain, and there is also some controversy regarding the efficacy of different wavelengths currently on the market. Materials and methods: Thirty Wistar rats were used and divided into three groups, with 10 rats in each. A random skin flap was raised on the dorsum of each animal. Group 1 was the control group, group 2 received 830 nm laser radiations, and group 3 was submitted to 670 nm laser radiation (power density=0.5 mW/cm(2)). The animals underwent laser therapy with 36 J/cm(2) energy density (total energy=2.52 J and 72 sec per session) immediately after surgery and on the 4 subsequent days. The application site of laser radiation was one point at 2.5 cm from the flap’s cranial base. The percentage of skin flap necrosis area was calculated on the 7th postoperative day using the paper template method. A skin sample was collected immediately after to determine the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression and the epidermal cell proliferation index (KiD67). Results: Statistically significant differences were found among the percentages of necrosis, with higher values observed in group 1 compared with groups 2 and 3. No statistically significant differences were found among these groups using the paper template method. Group 3 presented the highest mean number of blood vessels expressing VEGF and of cells in the proliferative phase when compared with groups 1 and 2. Conclusions: LLLT was effective in increasing random skin flap viability in rats. The 670 nm laser presented more satisfactory results than the 830 nm laser.

Photomed Laser Surg 2012 Jun 25

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22730913

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What is better in TRAM flap survival: LLLT single or multi-irradiation?

Pinfildi CE, Hochman BS, Nishioka MA, Sheliga TR, Neves MA, Liebano RE, Ferreira LM

Department of Science of Human Movement, University Federal of Sao Paulo-UNIFESP, Campus Baixada Santista, Santos, Sao Paulo, Brazil, cepinfildi@hotmail.com.

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has been used with the aim of improving vascular perfusion of the skin and musculocutaneous flaps. This study evaluated the effect of LLLT on transverse rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flap (TRAM) viability, vascular angiogenesis, and VEGF release. Eighty-four Wistar rats were randomly divided into seven groups with 12 rats in each group. Group 1 received sham laser treatment; group 2, 3 J/cm(2) at 1 point; group 3, 3 J/cm(2) at 24 points; group 4, 72 J/cm(2) at 1 point; group 5, 6 J/cm(2) at 1 point; group 6, 6 J/cm(2) at 24 points; and group 7, 144 J/cm(2) at 1 point. All experimental groups underwent LLLT immediately after the TRAM operation and on the following 2 days; thus, animals underwent 3 days of treatment. The percentage of skin flap necrosis area was calculated on the fourth postoperative day using the paper template method, and two skin samples were collected using a 1-cm(2) punch to evaluate alpha smooth muscle actin (1A4) and VEGF levels in blood vessels. Significant differences were found in necrosis percentage, and higher values were seen in group 1 than in the other groups. Statistically significant differences were not found among groups 3 to 7 (p < 0.292). Groups 5 and 7 showed significantly higher VEGF levels compared to other groups. Groups 3 and 5 had an increase in levels of blood vessels compared to other groups. LLLT at energy densities of 6 to 144 J/cm(2) was efficient to increase angiogenesis and VEGF levels and promote viability in TRAM flaps in rats.

Lasers Med Sci 2012 Jun 22

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22722809

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Effects of low-level laser therapy on ROS homeostasis and expression of IGF-1 and TGF-beta1 in skeletal muscle during the repair process.

Luo L, Sun Z, Zhang L, Li X, Dong Y, Liu TC

School of Physical Education and Sports Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215021, China.

The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on the homeostasis of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and expression of IGF-1 and TGF-beta1 in the gastrocnemius muscles of rats following contusion. Muscle regeneration involves cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation and is regulated by growth factors. A growing body of evidence suggests that LLLT promotes skeletal muscle regeneration and accelerates tissue repair. Adult male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 96) were randomly divided into three groups: control group (no lesion, untreated, n = 6), contusion group (n = 48), and contusion-plus-LLLT group (n = 42). Gallium aluminum arsenide (GaAlAs) laser irradiation (635 nm; beam spot, 0.4 cm(2); output power, 7 mW; power density, 17.5 mW/cm(2); 20 min) was administered to the gastrocnemius contusion for 20 min daily for 10 days. Muscle remodeling was evaluated at 0 h and 1, 2, 3, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days after injury. Hematoxylin and eosin and Van Gieson staining were used to evaluate regeneration and fibrosis; muscle superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were detected via biochemical methods; expression of transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-beta1) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) were investigated via immunohistochemistry. The results showed that LLLT markedly promoted the regeneration of muscle and reduced scar formation. LLLT also significantly enhanced muscle SOD activity and significantly decreased muscle MDA levels 1, 2, and 3 days after injury. LLLT increased the expression of IGF-1 2, 3, and 7 days after injury and decreased the expression of IGF-1 21 and 28 days after injury. LLLT decreased the expression of TGF-beta1 3 and 28 days after injury but increased expression at 7 and 14 days after injury. Our study showed that LLLT could modulate the homeostasis of ROS and of the growth factors IGF-1 and TGF-beta1, which are known to play important roles in the repair process. This may constitute a new preventive approach to muscular fibrosis.

Lasers Med Sci 2012 Jun 20

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22714676

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[Low level laser irradiation in the visible spectra induces HeLa cells proliferation].

Yang HQ, Wang YH, Chen JX, Zheng LQ, Xie SS

Institute of Laser and Optoelectronics Technology, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory for Photonics Technology, Key Laboratory of Opto-Electronic Science and Technology for Medicine of Ministry of Education, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou 350007, China. hqyang@fjnu.edu.cn

The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effects of low level laser irradiation on the proliferation of HeLa cells using 405 nm diode laser, 514 nm argon laser, 633 nm He-Ne laser, or 785 nm diode laser, The cells were seeded on 96-well microplates for 24 h in 5% fetal bovine serum containing medium, then irradiated with the laser at dose of 100 and 1 000 J x m(-2), respectively. At the time point of 24, 48, 72 h after irradiation, cell viability was assessed by MTT assay. The results show that 405, 633 and 785 nm laser irradiation induces wavelength-dependent and time-dependent proliferation. 633 nm laser irradiation results in a stimulatory proliferation effect that is most significant, whereas 514 nm laser irradiation produces little increase in cell proliferation. Low level laser irradiation increases cell proliferation in a dose-dependent manner. 1 000 J x m(-2) laser irradiation is more effective in increasing cell proliferation than 100 J x m(-2) laser irradiation using 405 nm diode laser, 633 nm He-Ne laser, or 785 nm diode laser, but not as effective as using 514 nm argon laser.

Guang Pu Xue Yu Guang Pu Fen Xi 2012 Apr 32(4) 1024-7

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22715777

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Laser therapy of muscle injuries.

Dawood MS, Al-Salihi AR, Qasim AW

Al-Nahrain university, Baghdad, Iraq, monkithsdz51@yahoo.com.

Low-level lasers are used in general therapy and healing process due to their good photo-bio-stimulation effects. In this paper, the effects of diode laser and Nd:YAG laser on the healing process of practically managed skeletal muscle trauma has been successfully studied. Standard impact trauma was induced by using a specially designed mechanical device. The impacted muscle was left for 3 days for complete development of blunt trauma. After that it was irradiated by five laser sessions for 5 days. Two types of lasers were used; 785-nm diode laser and 1.064-nm Nd:YAG laser, both in continuous and pulsed modes. A special electronic circuit was designed and implemented to modulate the diode laser for this purpose. Tissue samples of crushed skeletal muscle have been dissected from the injured irradiated muscle then bio-chemically analyzed for the regeneration of contractile and collagenous proteins using Lowry assay for protein determination and Reddy and Enwemeka assay for hydroxyproline determination. The results showed that both lasers stimulate the regeneration capability of traumatized skeletal muscle. The diode laser in CW and pulsed modes showed better results than the Nd:YAG in accelerating the preservation of the normal tissue content of collagenous and contractile proteins beside controlling the regeneration of non-functional fibrous tissue. This study proved that the healing achieved by the laser treatment was faster than the control group by 15-20 days.

Lasers Med Sci 2012 Jun 20

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22714675

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Survival of Dopaminergic Amacrine Cells after Near-Infrared Light Treatment in MPTP-Treated Mice.

Peoples C, Shaw VE, Stone J, Jeffery G, Baker GE, Mitrofanis J

Discipline of Anatomy & Histology F13, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.

We examined whether near-infrared light (NIr) treatment (photobiomodulation) saves dopaminergic amacrine cells of the retina in an acute and a chronic 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) mouse model of Parkinson disease. For the acute model, BALB/c mice had MPTP (100 mg/kg) or saline injections over 30 hours, followed by a six-day-survival period. For the chronic model, mice had MPTP (200 mg/kg) or saline injections over five weeks, followed by a three-week-survival period. NIr treatment was applied either at the same time (simultaneous series) or well after (posttreatment series) the MPTP insult. There were four groups within each series: Saline, Saline-NIr, MPTP, and MPTP-NIr. Retinae were processed for tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) immunochemistry, and cell number was analysed. In the MPTP groups, there was a significant reduction in TH(+) cell number compared to the saline controls; this reduction was greater in the acute (~50%) compared to the chronic (~30%) cases. In the MPTP-NIr groups, there were significantly more TH(+) cells than in the MPTP groups of both series (~30%). In summary, we showed that NIr treatment was able to both protect (simultaneous series) and rescue (posttreatment series) TH(+) cells of the retina from parkinsonian insult.

ISRN Neurol 2012 2012 850150

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22701184

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Low-level laser treatment accelerated hair regrowth in a rat model of chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA).

Wikramanayake TC, Villasante AC, Mauro LM, Nouri K, Schachner LA, Perez CI, Jimenez JJ

Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1600 NW 10th Avenue, RSMB 2023A, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.

Chemotherapy-induced alopecia (CIA) is one of the most distressing side effects of antineoplastic chemotherapy for which there is no effective interventional approach. A low-level laser (LLL) device, the HairMax LaserComb(R), has been cleared by the FDA to treat androgenetic alopecia. Its effects may be extended to other settings; we have demonstrated that LaserComb treatment induced hair regrowth in a mouse model for alopecia areata. In the current study, we tested whether LLL treatment could promote hair regrowth in a rat model for CIA. Chemotherapy agents cyclophosphamide, etoposide, or a combination of cyclophosphamide and doxorubicin were administered in young rats to induce alopecia, with or without LLL treatment. As expected, 7-10 days later, all the rats developed full body alopecia. However, rats receiving laser treatment regrew hair 5 days earlier than rats receiving chemotherapy alone or sham laser treatment (with the laser turned off). The accelerated hair regrowth in laser-treated rats was confirmed by histology. In addition, LLL treatment did not provide local protection to subcutaneously injected Shay chloroleukemic cells. Taken together, our results demonstrated that LLL treatment significantly accelerated hair regrowth after CIA without compromising the efficacy of chemotherapy in our rat model. Our results suggest that LLL should be explored for the treatment of CIA in clinical trials because LLL devices for home use (such as the HairMax LaserComb(R)) provide a user-friendly and noninvasive approach that could be translated to increased patient compliance and improved efficacy.

Lasers Med Sci 2012 Jun 14

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22696077

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Laser Therapy as an Effective Method for Implant Surface Decontamination: A Histomorphometric Study in Rats.

Salmeron S, Rezende ML, Consolaro A, Sant’ana AC, Damante CA, Greghi SL, Passanezi E

Department of Prosthodontics, Division of Periodontics, Bauru School of Dentistry, University of Sao Paulo, Bauru, SP, Brazil.

Background: A standard protocol for treating peri-implantitis is not yet established. Methods: 150 titanium discs with smooth or rough surfaces contaminated with microbial biofilm were subcutaneously implanted in rats after undergoing one of the treatments: low-intensity laser (LIL), antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT), and toluidine blue O (TBO). Sterile and contaminated discs served as negative (NC) and positive (C) controls, respectively. After 7, 28, and 84 days tissue inflammation was microscopically evaluated by measuring the density of collagen fibers (degree of fibrosis) and concentration of PMNs. Results: surface texture did not affect the degree of inflammation, but the area of reactive tissue was significantly greater for rough implants (2.6 +/- 3.7 x 10(6) mum(2)) than for smooth ones (1.9 +/- 2.6 x 10(6) mum(2)) (p = 0.0377). Group C presented the lowest and NC presented the highest degree of fibrosis with significance only after 7 days. These groups had the highest and lowest scores, respectively, for degree of inflammation. The C group showed the largest area of reactive tissue (9.11 +/- 2.10 x 10(6) mum(2)), but it was not significantly larger than the LIL (p = 0.3031) and TBO (p = 0.1333) groups. The aPDT showed the smallest area (4.34 +/- 1.49 x 10(6) mum(2)) of reactive tissue among the treatment groups. After 28 days, the groups resembled the NC in all the studied parameters. Conclusions: aPDT behaved better than the other methods after 7 days, but over longer periods all methods produced outcomes equivalent to sterile implants.

J Periodontol 2012 Jun 9

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22680303

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High-power helium-neon laser irradiation inhibits the growth of traumatic scars in vitro and in vivo.

Shu B, Ni GX, Zhang LY, Li XP, Jiang WL, Zhang LQ

Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Institute of Field Surgery, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University, No.10, Changjiangzhilu, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400042, China, shubin1017@163.com.

This study explored the inhibitory effect of the high-power helium-neon (He-Ne) laser on the growth of scars post trauma. For the in vitro study, human wound fibroblasts were exposed to the high-power He-Ne laser for 30 min, once per day with different power densities (10, 50, 100, and 150 mW/cm(2)). After 3 days of repeated irradiation with the He-Ne laser, fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis were evaluated. For in vivo evaluation, a wounded animal model of hypertrophic scar formation was established. At postoperative day 21, the high-power He-Ne laser irradiation (output power 120 mW, 6 mm in diameter, 30 min each session, every other day) was performed on 20 scars. At postoperative day 35, the hydroxyproline content, apoptosis rate, PCNA protein expression and FADD mRNA level were assessed. The in vitro study showed that the irradiation group that received the power densities of 100 and 150 mW/cm(2) showed decreases in the cell proliferation index, increases in the percentage of cells in the G0/G1 phase, and decreases in collagen synthesis and type I procollagen gene expression. In the in vivo animal studies, regions exposed to He-Ne irradiation showed a significant decrease in scar thickness as well as decreases in hydroxyproline levels and PCNA protein expression. Results from the in vitro and in vivo studies suggest that repeated irradiation with a He-Ne laser at certain power densities inhibits fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis, thereby inhibits the growth of hypertrophic scars.

Lasers Med Sci 2012 Jun 8

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22678421

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Effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on bone repair in rats: optical densitometry analysis.

Barbosa D, de Souza RA, Xavier M, da Silva FF, Arisawa EA, Villaverde AG

Instituto de Engenharia Biomedica, Universidade Camilo Castelo Branco, UNICASTELO, Rodovia BR-116, 12247-004, Sao Jose dos Campos, Sao Paulo, Brazil.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the process of bone repair in rats submitted to low-level laser therapy using optical densitometry. A total of 45 rats which underwent femoral osteotomy were randomly distributed into three groups: control (group I) and laser-treated groups using wavelengths in the red (lambda, 660-690 nm) and in the infrared (lambda, 790-830 nm) spectra (group II and group III, respectively). The animals (five per group) were killed after 7, 14, and 21 days and the femurs were removed for optical densitometry analysis. Optical density showed a significant increase in the degree of mineralization (gray level) in both groups treated with the laser after 7 days. After 14 days, only the group treated with laser therapy in the infrared spectrum showed higher bone density. No differences were observed between groups after 21 days. Such results suggest the positive effect of low-level laser therapy in bone repair is time- and wavelength-dependent. In addition, our results have confirmed that optical densitometry technique can measure bone mineralization status.

Lasers Med Sci 2012 Jun 6

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22669177

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Patterns of Cell Activity in the Subthalamic Region Associated with the Neuroprotective Action of Near-Infrared Light Treatment in MPTP-Treated Mice.

Shaw VE, Peoples C, Spana S, Ashkan K, Benabid AL, Stone J, Baker GE, Mitrofanis J

Discipline of Anatomy and Histology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.

We have shown previously that near-infrared light (NIr) treatment or photobiomodulation neuroprotects dopaminergic cells in substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) from degeneration induced by 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) in mice. The present study explores whether NIr treatment changes the patterns of Fos expression in the subthalamic region, namely, the subthalamic nucleus (STN) and zona incerta (ZI); both cell groups have abnormally overactive cells in parkinsonian cases. BALB/c mice were treated with MPTP (100-250 mg/kg) or saline either over 30 hours followed by either a two-hour or six-day survival period (acute model) or over five weeks followed by a three-week survival period (chronic model). NIr and MPTP were applied simultaneously. Brains were processed for Fos immunochemistry, and cell number was estimated using stereology. Our major finding was that NIr treatment reduced (30-45%) the increase in Fos(+) cell number evident in the STN and ZI after MPTP insult. This reduction was concurrent with the neuroprotection of dopaminergic SNc cells shown previously and was evident in both MPTP models (except for the 2 hours survival period which showed no changes in cell number). In summary, our results indicated that NIr had long lasting effects on the activity of cells located deep in the brain and had repaired partially the abnormal activity generated by the parkinsonian toxin.

Parkinsons Dis 2012 2012 296875

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22666627

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Low-Level Laser Irradiation Stimulates Tenocyte Migration with Up-Regulation of Dynamin II Expression.

Tsai WC, Hsu CC, Pang JH, Lin MS, Chen YH, Liang FC

Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan County, Taiwan.

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is commonly used to treat sports-related tendinopathy or tendon injury. Tendon healing requires tenocyte migration to the repair site, followed by proliferation and synthesis of the extracellular matrix. This study was designed to determine the effect of laser on tenocyte migration. Furthermore, the correlation between this effect and expression of dynamin 2, a positive regulator of cell motility, was also investigated. Tenocytes intrinsic to rat Achilles tendon were treated with low-level laser (660 nm with energy density at 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 J/cm(2)). Tenocyte migration was evaluated by an in vitro wound healing model and by transwell filter migration assay. The messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expressions of dynamin 2 were determined by reverse transcription/real-time polymerase chain reaction (real-time PCR) and Western blot analysis respectively. Immunofluorescence staining was used to evaluate the dynamin 2 expression in tenocytes. Tenocytes with or without laser irradiation was treated with dynasore, a dynamin competitor and then underwent transwell filter migration assay. In vitro wound model revealed that more tenocytes with laser irradiation migrated across the wound border to the cell-free zone. Transwell filter migration assay confirmed that tenocyte migration was enhanced dose-dependently by laser. Real-time PCR and Western-blot analysis demonstrated that mRNA and protein expressions of dynamin 2 were up-regulated by laser irradiation dose-dependently. Confocal microscopy showed that laser enhanced the expression of dynamin 2 in cytoplasm of tenocytes. The stimulation effect of laser on tenocytes migration was suppressed by dynasore. In conclusion, low-level laser irradiation stimulates tenocyte migration in a process that is mediated by up-regulation of dynamin 2, which can be suppressed by dynasore.

PLoS One 2012 7(5) e38235

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22666495

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Interventions for accelerating orthodontic tooth movement.

Long H, Pyakurel U, Wang Y, Liao L, Zhou Y, Lai W

a Graduate Student, State Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Department of Orthodontics, West China School of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of interventions on accelerating orthodontic tooth movement. Materials and Methods: We searched the databases of PubMed, Embase, Science Citation Index, CENTRAL, and SIGLE from January 1990 to August 2011 for randomized or quasi-randomized controlled trials that assessed the effectiveness of interventions on accelerating orthodontic tooth movement. The processes of study search, selection, and quality assessment were conducted independently in duplicate by two review authors. Original outcome data, if possible, underwent statistical pooling by using Review Manager 5. Results: Through a predefined search strategy, we finally included nine eligible studies. Among them, five interventions were studied (ie, low-level laser therapy, corticotomy, electrical current, pulsed electromagnetic fields, and dentoalveolar or periodontal distraction). Six outcomes were evaluated in these studies (ie, accumulative moved distance or movement rate, time required to move tooth to its destination, anchorage loss, periodontal health, pulp vitality, and root resorption). Conclusion: Among the five interventions, corticotomy is effective and safe to accelerate orthodontic tooth movement, low-level laser therapy was unable to accelerate orthodontic tooth movement, current evidence does not reveal whether electrical current and pulsed electromagnetic fields are effective in accelerating orthodontic tooth movement, and dentoalveolar or periodontal distraction is promising in accelerating orthodontic tooth movement but lacks convincing evidence.

Angle Orthod 2012 Jun 21

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22720793

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Deciphering the Neuronal Circuitry Controlling Local Blood Flow in the Cerebral Cortex with Optogenetics in PV::Cre Transgenic Mice.

Urban A, Rancillac A, Martinez L, Rossier J

Laboratoire de Neurobiologie, Equipe Optogenetics and Brain Imaging, CNRS UMR 7637, Ecole Superieure de Physique et de Chimie Industrielles ParisTech PARIS, France.

Although it is know since more than a century that neuronal activity is coupled to blood supply regulation, the underlying pathways remains to be identified. In the brain, neuronal activation triggers a local increase of cerebral blood flow (CBF) that is controlled by the neurogliovascular unit composed of terminals of neurons, astrocytes, and blood vessel muscles. It is generally accepted that the regulation of the neurogliovascular unit is adjusted to local metabolic demand by local circuits. Today experimental data led us to realize that the regulatory mechanisms are more complex and that a neuronal system within the brain is devoted to the control of local brain-blood flow. Recent optogenetic experiments combined with functional magnetic resonance imaging have revealed that light stimulation of neurons expressing the calcium binding protein parvalbumin (PV) is associated with positive blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) signal in the corresponding barrel field but also with negative BOLD in the surrounding deeper area. Here, we demonstrate that in acute brain slices, channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2) based photostimulation of PV containing neurons gives rise to an effective contraction of penetrating arterioles. These results support the neurogenic hypothesis of a complex distributed nervous system controlling the CBF.

Front Pharmacol 2012 3 105

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22715327

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Posted in Research | on Low Level Laser Therapy LLLT / Cold Laser Literature watch for June 2012

Low Level Laser Therapy LLLT / Cold Laser Literature watch for May 2012

31 LLLT papers for you from May 2012 including: LLLT after root planing, post episiotomy, and for TMJD, shoulder tendinopathies, dysmenorrhoea, pressure sores and acne vulgaris and much more.

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Short-term clinical and osteoimmunological effects of scaling and root planing complemented by simple or repeated laser phototherapy in chronic periodontitis.

Calderin S, Garcia-Nunez JA, Gomez C

Departamento de Estomatologia III, Facultad de Odontologia, UCM, Madrid, Spain.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical, anti-inflammatory, and osteoimmunological benefits of the single (PT) and repeated laser phototherapy (rPT) as an adjunctive treatment of inflamed periodontal tissue. Twenty-seven patients with chronic periodontitis were randomly divided into three groups of nine patients each in order to undergo scaling and root planing (SRP), SRP followed by one session of adjunctive PT (Day 1; SRP + PT), or SRP followed by adjunctive repeated PT five times in 2 weeks (Days 1, 2, 4, 7, and 11; SRP + rPT). For phototherapy session, a diode laser (lambda = 670 nm, 200 mW, 60 s/tooth) was applied into the sulcus. Clinical parameters, including full-mouth plaque score, full-mouth bleeding score, probing pocket depth, and clinical attachment level were recorded. Samples of gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) were taken at baseline, 4, and 8 weeks after treatment. Interleukin 1beta (IL-1beta), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), receptor activator of nuclear factor kappaBeta ligand (RANKL), and osteoprotegerin (OPG) levels in the collected GCF were measured. PT used in a single or repeated doses, does not produce a significant reduction in the clinical parameters essayed (p > 0.05). Levels of IL-1beta in GCF were significantly reduced in SRP + PT and SRP + rPT groups compared with the SRP group (p < 0.05). However, the SRP + rPT group showed a significant reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-alpha and RANKL/OPG ratio at 4 weeks post-treatment compared with the SRP + PT and SRP groups (p < 0.05). SRP + PT group also showed a significant reduction in TNF-alpha and RANKL/OPG ratio at 8 weeks post-treatment compared with the SRP group (p < 0.05). PT exerts a biostimulative effect on the periodontal tissue. Multiple sessions of PT showed a faster and greater tendency to reduce proinflammatory mediators and RANKL/OPG ratio.

Lasers Med Sci 2012 May 1

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22546942

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Effectiveness of Physiotherapy and GaAlAs Laser in the Management of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders.

Dostalova T, Hlinakova P, Kasparova M, Rehacek A, Vavrickova L, Navratil L

1 Department of Paediatric Stomatology, 2nd Medical Faculty, Charles University , Prague, Czech Republic .

Abstract Objective: Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is a treatment method commonly used in physiotherapy for musculoskeletal disorders. The aim of this study was to monitor the function of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and surrounding tissues and compare the objective measurements of the effect of LLLT. Background data: LLLT has been considered effective in reducing pain and muscular tension; thus improving the quality of patients’ lives. Materials and Methods: TMJ function was evaluated by cephalometric tracing analysis, orthopantomogram, TMJ tomogram, and computer face-bow record. Interalveolar space between central incisors before and after therapy was measured. Patients evaluated pain on the Visual Analog Scale. LLLT was performed in five treatment sessions (energy density of 15.4 J/cm(2)) by semiconductive GaAlAs laser with an output of 280 mW, emitting radiation wavelength of 830 mm. The laser supplied a spot of approximately 0.2 cm(2). Results: Baseline comparisons between the healthy patients and patients with low-level laser application show that TMJ pain during function is based on anatomical and function changes in TMJ areas. Significant differences were seen in the posterior and anterior face height. The results comparing healthy and impaired TMJ sagittal condyle paths showed that patients with TMJ pain during function had significantly flatter nonanatomical movement during function. After therapy, the unpleasant feeling was reduced from 27.5 to 4.16 on the pain Visual Analog Scale. The pain had reduced the ability to open the mouth from 34 to 42 mm. Conclusions: The laser therapy was effective in the improvement of the range of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and promoted a significant reduction of pain symptoms.

Photomed Laser Surg 2012 May 30(5) 275-80

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22551049

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Low-level laser therapy for pain relief after episiotomy: a double-blind randomised clinical trial.

Santos JD, de Oliveira SM, da Silva FM, Nobre MR, Osava RH, Riesco ML

Authors: Jaqueline de O Santos, PhD, CNM, Assistant Lecturer, Instituto de Ciencias da Saude da Universidade Paulista; Sonia MJV de Oliveira, PhD, CNM, Assistant Professor and Flora MB da Silva, CNM, MSN, Doctoral Candidate – CNPq Scholarship, School of Nursing, University of Sao Paulo; Moacyr RC Nobre, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor, Medical School Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Heart Institute (InCor), University of Sao Paulo; Ruth H Osava, PhD, CNM, Assistant Lecturer, School of Arts, Sciences and Humanities, EACH, University of Sao Paulo; Maria LG Riesco, PhD, CNM, Assistant Professor, School of Nursing, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.

Aims and objectives. To evaluate the effectiveness of a low-level laser therapy for pain relief in the perineum following episiotomy during childbirth. Background. Laser irradiation is a painless and non-invasive therapy for perineal pain treatment and its effects have been investigated in several studies, with no clear conclusion on its effectiveness. Design. A double-blind randomised controlled clinical trial. Method. One hundred and fourteen women who underwent right mediolateral episiotomies during vaginal birth in an in-hospital birthing centre in Sao Paulo, Brazil and reported pain >/=3 on a numeric scale (0-10) were randomised into three groups of 38 women each: two experimental groups (treated with red and infrared laser) and a control group. The experimental groups were treated with laser applied at three points directly on the episiotomy after suturing in a single session between 6-56 hours postpartum. We used a diode laser with wavelengths of 660 nm (red laser) and 780 nm (infrared laser). The control group participants underwent all laser procedures, excluding the emission of irradiation. The participants and the pain scores evaluator were blinded to the type of intervention. The perineal pain scores were assessed at three time points: before, immediately after and 30 minutes after low-level laser therapy. Results. The comparison of perineal pain between the three groups showed no significant differences in the three evaluations (p = 0.445), indicating that the results obtained in the groups treated with low-level laser therapy were equivalent to the control group. Conclusions. Low-level laser therapy did not decrease the intensity of perineal pain reported by women who underwent right mediolateral episiotomy. Relevance to clinical practice. The effect of laser in perineal pain relief was not demonstrated in this study. The dosage may not have been sufficient to provide relief from perineal pain after episiotomy during a vaginal birth.

J Clin Nurs 2012 May 30

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22642607

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Skin adhesive low-level light therapy for dysmenorrhoea: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, pilot trial.

Shin YI, Kim NG, Park KJ, Kim DW, Hong GY, Shin BC

Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Pusan National University School of Medicine, Research Institute for Convergence of Biomedical Science and Technology, Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital, Yangsan, Korea.

PURPOSE: The cause of dysmenorrhoea is an abnormal function of smooth muscles in the uterus due to long-term deficient blood supply into smooth muscle tissue. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of skin adhesive low-level light therapy (LLLT) in participants with dysmenorrhoea. METHODS: Thirty-one women were included in this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, pilot trial. Twenty-one women were treated with active LLLT and ten women were treated with placebo one. The therapy was performed in a laboratory room for 20 min a day over a period of 5 days prior to the expected onset of menstruation. The outcome was measured using a visual analog scale (VAS) for each participant’s dysmenorrhoeal pain severity. VAS of each subject was measured every month for 6 months. RESULTS: In the active LLLT group, 16 women reported successful results during their first menstrual cycle just after active LLLT and 5 women had successful results from the second menstrual cycle after active LLLT. The pain reduction rate was 83 % in the active LLLT group, whereas there was only a slight and temporary reduction in pain in the placebo LLLT group. Changes of VAS within 6 months of LLLT showed statistical significance (p = 0.001) over placebo control. CONCLUSIONS: Our study suggests that skin adhesive LLLT on acupuncture points might be an effective, simple and safe non-pharmacological treatment for dysmenorrhoea.

Arch Gynecol Obstet 2012 May 31

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22648444

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Interferential light therapy in the treatment of shoulder tendinopathies: a randomized controlled pilot study.

Montes-Molina R, Martinez-Rodriguez ME, Rodriguez AB, Martinez-Ruiz F, Prieto-Baquero A

Unit of Physiotherapy and Clinical Electrotherapy, Hospital University Ramon y Cajal, IRICYS, Madrid, Spain.

Objectives: To test the safety of the diode light therapy and evaluate the advantages of the interferential effect of two light probes versus a conventional light probe in the relief of shoulder pain and disability caused by shoulder tendinopathies.Design: Randomized single-blind pilot study.Setting: Clinical electrotherapy unit.Participants: A total of 30 patients with shoulder pain from tendinopathies.Interventions: The patients were randomly assigned into two groups. Group 1 (n = 15) received interferential light therapy generated by two independent and identical cluster probes composed of light emitting and superluminescent diodes. Similarly, two applicators were applied in group 2 (n = 15), but only one was active, as in conventional clinical therapy. Each multi-diode cluster probe was composed of seven light-emitting diodes at 600 nm and 12 superluminescent diodes at 950 nm.Main outcome measures: Pain was evaluated by visual analogue scale (VAS) at day, at night and during several shoulder movements. Shoulder functional status was measured by means of the University California Los Angeles scale (UCLA).Results: Comparison between both treatments using the Mann-Whitney U-test showed better results for the interferential treatment. There were significant differences in pain reduction during abduction (P < 0.05) and external rotation (P < 0.05), with pain reductions in abduction and external rotation of 1.5 (+/- 1.3) and 0.5 (+/- 1.0) respectively.Conclusion: Interferential light therapy was safe and effective regarding the shoulder pain reduction during abduction and external rotation movements. The estimated size sample needed for future two-treatment parallel-design studies will require about 60 patients.

Clin Rehabil 2012 May 29

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22643725

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A Comparative Study on Effectiveness of Ultrasound Therapy and Low Level Laser Therapy in the Management of Second Stage Pressure Sores

Muragod Anil Rachappa 1, P Sreekumaran 2, U Danesh K2,

1KLEU Institute of Physiotherapy Belgaum, Mangalore India 2Nitte Institute of Physiotherapy, Mangalore India

Objective The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of Ultrasound and Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) on second stage pressure sores so as to be able to deliver better therapy for pressure sore patients on wound healing. Methods Forty subjects were taken for the study along with the routine medical management. 20 subjects receive the pulsed ultrasound therapy three times a week for four weeks with frequency of 3 MHz, and intensity of 0.5W/cm2 to 0.8 W/cm2, for five min with direct technique using hydrogel sheet. Another 20 subjects received the LLLT. The laser emission device used was Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) (904 nm) laser. It was made of a semiconductor infrared radiation source. The non contact method of application was used with 0.5 to 4.0 J/cm2 for 2 min for three times a week for 4 weeks. The wounds were traced before starting the treatment and after 4 weeks of treatment, on transparent paper and wound area was calculated with digitizer (AutoCAD software). Results The results showed a significant (p = 0.001) decrease in pressure sore surface area in both ultrasound and laser group. When both the groups were compared, the laser therapy is found to be more beneficial than the ultrasound therapy (p=0.046). Conclusion Both ultrasound and laser can be used in the management of pressure sores. However in the present study it is seen that LLLT is more beneficial than the ultrasound therapy in the management of pressure sores.

2012 Indian Journal of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy – An International Journal V6, Iss1 11 – 13

http://www.indianjournals.com/ijor.aspx?target=ijor:ijpot&volume=6&issue=1&article=004

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Comparison of Red and Infrared Low-level Laser Therapy in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris.

Aziz-Jalali MH, Tabaie SM, Djavid GE

Department of Dermatology, Hazrat-e Rasool University Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Acne vulgaris is a very prevalent skin disorder and remains a main problem in practice. Recently, phototherapy with various light spectrums for acne has been used. There are some evidences that low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has beneficial effect in the treatment of acne lesions. In this study, two different wavelengths of LLLT (630 and 890 nm) were evaluated in treatment of acne vulgaris. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was a single-blind randomized clinical trial. Patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris and age above 18 years and included were treated with red LLLT (630 nm) and infrared LLLT (890 nm) on the right and left sides of the face respectively, twice in a week for 12 sessions, and clinically assessed at baseline and weeks 2, 4, 6, and 8. RESULTS: Twenty-eight patients were participated in this study. Ten weeks after treatment acne lesion were significantly decreased in the side treated by 630 nm LLLT (27.7+/-12.7 to 6.3+/-1.9) (P0.05). CONCLUSION: Red wavelength is safe and effective to be used to treat acne vulgaris by LLLT compared to infrared wavelength.

Indian J Dermatol 2012 Mar 57(2) 128-30

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22615511

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Body contouring: the skinny on noninvasive fat removal.

Jalian HR, Avram MM

Laser and Cosmetic Center and Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA; Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA.

Historically, the approach to body contouring has largely involved invasive procedures, such as liposuction. Recently, several new devices for noninvasive fat removal have received clearance by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of focal adiposity. Modalities are aimed primarily at targeting the physical properties of fat that differentiate it from the overlying epidermis and dermis, thus selectively resulting in removal. This review will focus on 3 novel approaches to noninvasive selective destruction of fat.

Semin Cutan Med Surg 2012 Jun 31(2) 121-5

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22640432

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Effects of neuromuscular electrical stimulation, laser therapy and LED therapy on the masticatory system and the impact on sleep variables in cerebral palsy patients: a randomized, five arms clinical trial.

Giannasi LC Dr, Matsui MT Dr, Batista SR Prof, Hardt CT Prof, Gomes CP Prof, Amorim JB Dr, Aguiar IC Prof, Collange L Prof, Oliveira EF Prof, Santos IR Prof, Dias IS Prof, Nassif SR Prof, Oliveira CS Dr, Oliveira LV Dr, Gomes MF Dr

ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND: Few studies demonstrate effectiveness of therapies for oral rehabilitation of patients with cerebral palsy (CP), given the difficulties in chewing, swallowing and speech, besides the intellectual, sensory and social limitations. Due to upper airway obstruction, they are also vulnerable to sleep disorders. This study aims to assess the sleep variables, through polysomnography, and masticatory dynamics, using electromiography, before and after neuromuscular electrical stimulation, associated or not with low power laser (Gallium Arsenide- Aluminun, = 780nm) and LED ( = 660 nm) irradiation in CP patients. Methods/Design: 50 patients with CP, both gender, aged between 19 and 60 years will be enrolled in this study. The inclusion criteria are: voluntary participation, patient with hemiparesis, quadriparesis or diparetic CP, with ability to understand and respond to verbal commands. The exclusion criteria are: patients undergoing / underwent orthodontic, functional maxillary orthopedic or botulinum toxin treatment. Polysomnographic and surface electromyographic exams on masseter, temporalis and suprahyoid will be carry out in all sample. Questionnaire assessing oral characteristics will be applied. The sample will be divided into 5 treatment groups: Group 1: neuromuscular electrical stimulation; Group 2: laser therapy; Group 3: LED therapy; Group 4: neuromuscular electrical stimulation and laser therapy and Group 5: neuromuscular electrical stimulation and LED therapy. All patients will be treated during 8 consecutive weeks. After treatment, polysomnographic and electromiographic exams will be collected again. Discussion: This paper describes a five arm clinical trial assessing the examination of sleep quality and masticatory function in patients with CP under non-invasive therapies.

BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2012 May 15 13(1) 71

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22587485

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Complementary and alternative medicine in osteoarthritis.

De Luigi AJ

Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, National Rehabilitation Hospital, Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC(dagger).

The intent of this focused clinical review is to assess the current literature on a variety of complementary and alternative medicine treatments for osteoarthritis. This review assesses acupuncture techniques, moxibustion, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, low-level laser therapy, and massage. These treatment methods are growing in popularity among the general public. It is important that providers become aware of the existing literature regarding the efficacy of these alternative methods for the treatment of osteoarthritis to adequately respond to the inquiries of our patients.

PM R 2012 May 4(5 Suppl) S122-33

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22632691

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Methyl aminolevulinate plus red light vs. placebo plus red light in the treatment of photodamaged facial skin: histopathological findings.

Sanclemente G, Correa LA, Garcia JJ, Barrera M, Villa JF, Garcia HI

Group of Investigative Dermatology (GRID) IPS Universitaria Academic Group of Clinical Epidemiology (GRAEPIC), University of Antioquia Medellin, Antioquia, Colombia.

Background. Improvement in the morphological appearance of collagen and elastic fibres has been reported after the use of trichloroacetic acid, dermabrasion and laser therapy, but the histopathological changes occurring after photodynamic therapy are less understood. Aim. To assess the histological changes that occur after methyl aminolevulinate (MAL) plus red-light therapy for facial photodamage. Methods. This was a prospective, double-blind, double-arm, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of MAL plus red light in patients with facial photodamage. A 3-mm punch biopsy was taken from each side of the face before randomization and start of therapy. A dermatopathologist blinded to the treatment assessed epidermal and dermal layer thickness, perivascular inflammation, solar elastosis, perifollicular fibrosis, telangiectasias, number of elastic and collagen fibres, and grade of reticular degeneration. Results. In total, 65 women were initially screened for eligibility, but skin samples from only 38 of these were analysed. The change in dermal thickness from baseline to postintervention was significant (P < 0.01, Wilcoxon signed rank test). Although there was a trend for the epidermis to be thinner after MAL plus red light vs. placebo plus red light (46.25 mum vs. 55.50 mum, respectively), the difference was not significant (P = 0.64, Mann-Whitney U-test). Similarly, the changes in dermal thickness obtained with the two treatments were not significant (P = 0.99, Mann-Whitney test). Histological improvement was seen using stains for collagen, elastic tissue, and perifollicular fibrosis after MAL plus red light therapy. Discussion. Dermal thickness increased after the use of MAL plus red light, and there was improvement in collagen, elastic tissue and perifollicular fibrosis. Although these differences were not significant, most of the histopathological features examined in our study improved after treatment with MAL plus red light. The lack of significance might be due either to the low power of this study or to the failure of our scoring method to detect significant histopathological differences.

Clin Exp Dermatol 2012 Jun 37(4) 379-86

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22582911

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Photoactivation of bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells with diode laser: Effects and mechanisms of action.

Giannelli M, Chellini F, Sassoli C, Francini F, Pini A, Squecco R, Nosi D, Bani D, Zecchi-Orlandini S, Formigli L

Odontostomatologic Laser Therapy Center, Via dell’Olivuzzo 162, Florence, Italy.

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are a promising cell candidate in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Their proliferative potential can be increased by low-level laser irradiation (LLLI), but the mechanisms involved remain to be clarified. With the aim of expanding the therapeutic application of LLLI to MSC therapy, in the present study we investigated the effects of 635 nm diode laser on mouse MSC proliferation and investigated the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms, focusing the attention on the effects of laser irradiation on Notch-1 signal activation and membrane ion channel modulation. It was found that MSC proliferation was significantly enhanced after laser irradiation, as judged by time lapse videomicroscopy and EdU incorporation. This phenomenon was associated with the up-regulation and activation of Notch-1 pathway, and with increased membrane conductance through voltage-gated K(+) , BK and Kir, channels and T-and L-type Ca(2+) channels. We also showed that MSC proliferation was mainly dependent on Kir channel activity, on the basis that the cell growth and Notch-1 up-regulation were severely decreased by the pre-treatment with the channel inhibitor Ba(2+) (0.5mM). Interestingly, the channel inhibition was also able to attenuate the stimulatory effects of diode laser on MSCs, thus providing novel evidence to expand our knowledge on the mechanisms of biostimulation after LLLI. In conclusions, our findings suggest that diode laser may be a valid approach for the preconditioning of MSCs in vitro prior cell transplantation. J. Cell. Physiol. (c) 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

J Cell Physiol 2012 May 24

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22628164

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Suppressive effect of low-level laser therapy on tracheal hyperresponsiveness and lung inflammation in rat subjected to intestinal ischemia and reperfusion.

de Lima FM, Vitoretti L, Coelho F, Albertini R, Breithaupt-Faloppa AC, de Lima WT, Aimbire F

Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Universidade Nove de Julho, UNINOVE, Rua Vergueiro, 235, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.

Intestinal ischemia and reperfusion (i-I/R) is an insult associated with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). It is not known if pro- and anti-inflammatory mediators in ARDS induced by i-I/R can be controlled by low-level laser therapy (LLLT). This study was designed to evaluate the effect of LLLT on tracheal cholinergic reactivity dysfunction and the release of inflammatory mediators from the lung after i-I/R. Anesthetized rats were subjected to superior mesenteric artery occlusion (45 min) and killed after clamp release and preestablished periods of intestinal reperfusion (30 min, 2 or 4 h). The LLLT (660 nm, 7.5 J/cm(2)) was carried out by irradiating the rats on the skin over the right upper bronchus for 15 and 30 min after initiating reperfusion and then euthanizing them 30 min, 2, or 4 h later. Lung edema was measured by the Evans blue extravasation technique, and pulmonary neutrophils were determined by myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. Pulmonary tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin-10 (IL-10), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), and isoform of NO synthase (iNOS) mRNA expression were analyzed by real-time PCR. TNF-alpha, IL-10, and iNOS proteins in the lung were measured by the enzyme-linked immunoassay technique. LLLT (660 nm, 7.5 J/cm(2)) restored the tracheal hyperresponsiveness and hyporesponsiveness in all the periods after intestinal reperfusion. Although LLLT reduced edema and MPO activity, it did not do so in all the postreperfusion periods. It was also observed with the ICAM-1 expression. In addition to reducing both TNF-alpha and iNOS, LLLT increased IL-10 in the lungs of animals subjected to i-I/R. The results indicate that LLLT can control the lung’s inflammatory response and the airway reactivity dysfunction by simultaneously reducing both TNF-alpha and iNOS.

Lasers Med Sci 2012 May 5

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22562449

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Effect of cerebral cortex sulci on near-infrared light propagation during monitoring and treatment

Ting Li, Qingming Luo, and Steven L. Jacques

Oregon Health and Science University, United States Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China

Central sulcus substantially affects NIRS/NIRI spatial sensitivity and LLLT fluence rate in the study of light transport within a high-resolution 3D anatomical head structure, allowing deeper penetration of light than previous models predicted.

Biomedical Optics Conference Paper, BIOMED, New Spectroscopic Techniques and Applications (BW4B) Miami, Florida April 28, 2012

http://www.opticsinfobase.org/abstract.cfm?URI=BIOMED-2012-BW4B.6

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Far-infrared therapy induces the nuclear translocation of PLZF which inhibits VEGF-induced proliferation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells.

Hsu YH, Chen YC, Chen TH, Sue YM, Cheng TH, Chen JR, Chen CH

Department of Internal Medicine, Taipei Medical University-Shuang Ho Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan.

Many studies suggest that far-infrared (FIR) therapy can reduce the frequency of some vascular-related diseases. The non-thermal effect of FIR was recently found to play a role in the long-term protective effect on vascular function, but its molecular mechanism is still unknown. In the present study, we evaluated the biological effect of FIR on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-induced proliferation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). We found that FIR ranging 3 approximately 10 microm significantly inhibited VEGF-induced proliferation in HUVECs. According to intensity and time course analyses, the inhibitory effect of FIR peaked at an effective intensity of 0.13 mW/cm(2) at 30 min. On the other hand, a thermal effect did not inhibit VEGF-induced proliferation in HUVECs. FIR exposure also inhibited the VEGF-induced phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases in HUVECs. FIR exposure further induced the phosphorylation of endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase (eNOS) and NO generation in VEGF-treated HUVECs. Both VEGF-induced NO and reactive oxygen species generation was involved in the inhibitory effect of FIR. Nitrotyrosine formation significantly increased in HUVECs treated with VEGF and FIR together. Inhibition of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) by wortmannin abolished the FIR-induced phosphorylation of eNOS and Akt in HUVECs. FIR exposure upregulated the expression of PI3K p85 at the transcriptional level. We further found that FIR exposure induced the nuclear translocation of promyelocytic leukemia zinc finger protein (PLZF) in HUVECs. This induction was independent of a thermal effect. The small interfering RNA transfection of PLZF blocked FIR-increased PI3K levels and the inhibitory effect of FIR. These data suggest that FIR induces the nuclear translocation of PLZF which inhibits VEGF-induced proliferation in HUVECs.

PLoS One 2012 7(1) e30674

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22292015

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Effect of Low-Level Laser Therapy (660 nm) on Acute Inflammation Induced by Tenotomy of Achilles Tendon in Rats.

Laraia EM, Silva IS, Pereira DM, Dos Reis FA, Albertini R, de Almeida P, Leal Junior EC, de Carvalho PD

Post Graduate Program for Health and Development of the Central-West Region, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil Post Graduate Program in Rehabilitation Sciences, Nove de Julho University (UNINOVE), Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil Post Graduate Program in Biophotonics, Nove de Julho University (UNINOVE), Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.

In this study we aimed to analyze the effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) (660 nm) on levels of protein expression of inflammatory mediators after cutting Achilles tendon of rats. Thirty Wistar male rats underwent partial incisions of the left Achilles tendon, and were divided into three groups of 10 animals according to the time of euthanasia after injury: 6, 24 and 72 hours. Each group was then divided into control group and LLLT group (treated with 100 mW, 3.57 W/cm(2) , 0.028 cm(2), 214 J/cm(2) , 6 J, 60 sec, single point). In LLLT group animals were treated once time per day until the time of euthanasia established for each group. The group treated with LLLT showed a significant reduction of IL-1beta compared to control groups at three time points (6h: p=0.0401; 24h: p=0.0015; 72h: p=0.0463). The analysis of IL-6 showed significant reduction only in the LLLT group at 72 h compared to control group (p=0.0179) while IL-10 showed a significant increase in the treated group compared with control group at three experimental times (6h: p=0.0007; 24h: p=0.0256; 72h: p
Photochem Photobiol 2012 May 21

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Technical Parameters for Laser Acupuncture to Elicit Peripheral and Central Effects: State-of-the-Art and Short Guidelines Based on Results from the Medical University of Graz, the German Academy of Acupuncture, and the Scientific Literature.

Litscher G, Opitz G

The Stronach Research Unit for Complementary and Integrative Laser Medicine, Research Unit of Biomedical Engineering in Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, and TCM Research Center Graz, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 29, 8036 Graz, Austria.

The scientific literature in the area of laser acupuncture is rather large; however, the actual mechanisms and effects have not yet been proven in detail. Since the early days of laser acupuncture, there are still many open questions concerning technical parameters of this innovative technique. In this paper, we report about the most important technical parameters (wavelength, output power, power density, energy density, dose range, and continuous or pulsed laser) for laser acupuncture and present quantitative results for optimal laser stimulation, which allow eliciting reproducible effects in the periphery and in the brain. There are several position statements on laser acupuncture and also several review articles in scientific literature concerning clinical effectiveness of laser acupuncture. For example, the Australian Medical Acupuncture College stated recently that “the optimal energy density for laser acupuncture and biostimulation, based on current clinical experience, is 4 J/cm(2)”. However, our results of previous research studies and of this paper clearly show that dose must be adjusted according to the individual responses.

Evid Based Complement Alternat Med 2012 2012 697096

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22619693

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The influence of red laser irradiation timeline on burn healing in rats.

Nunez SC, Franca CM, Silva DF, Nogueira GE, Prates RA, Ribeiro MS

Centro de Lasers e Aplicacoes, IPEN-CNEN/Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) promotes biomodulation of wound healing and literature reports that light delivery during the inflammation could play a different role compared with latter phases of the healing process. The objective of this study was to investigate whether single dose of a red laser (lambda = 660 nm) is different from fractionated delivery protocol in full thickness burns. Two lesions were inflicted on the back of 36 rats. In the fractionated dose group (FG), the lesions were irradiated with 1 J/cm(2) on days 1, 3, 8, and 10 post-wounding. In the single dose group (SG), the lesions were irradiated with 4 J/cm(2) on day 1, immediately after injury. Control lesions (CG) received no light and were left to heal spontaneously. Blood flow was measured on days 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, and 21 using laser Doppler flowmetry. Animals were killed on days 3, 8, 10, 15, and 21. Skin specimens were obtained and routinely processed for hematoxylin and eosin. The specimens were evaluated according to differential leukocyte counting and angiogenesis. Statistical analysis was performed, and significance was accepted at p < 0.05. Irradiated groups showed a peak of new vessels on day 15 while, for CG, the peak was on day 21. On day 21, FG exhibited a significantly greater number of cumulative neutrophils while SG showed a higher number of mononuclear cells. Our results confirm that both protocols used accelerate angiogenesis and stimulate leukocyte chemotaxis on burn treatment. In addition, this work suggests that a single-dose LLLT accelerates the inflammatory phase of skin repair.

Lasers Med Sci 2012 May 23

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22618156

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The Low Level Laser Therapy Effect on the Remodeling of Bone Extracellular Matrix.

de Souza Merli LA, de Medeiros VP, Toma L, Reginato RD, Katchburian E, Nader HB, Faloppa F

Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology Department of Biochemistry Department of Morphology and Genetics from Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil.

The low level laser therapy (LLLT) has been used as an option to accelerate the regeneration of bone tissue. In this study, both femurs of male Wistar rats (30 animals) were injured with a drill and the effect of LLLT using a laser diode (100 mW at 660 nm) in the bone matrix on the left paw measured. LLLT effect on the healing bone tissue matrix was evaluated by a combination of immunohistochemical histomorphometry, confocal immunofluorescence microscopy, and isolation and characterization of glycosaminoglycans. Histomorphometric analysis showed that LLLT increased bone matrix and showing more organized. Alcian Blue and PAS staining seems to suggest differential glycosaminoglycans and glycoproteins. The data showed increased expression of chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid, after reduction as the LLLT and mature bone, resembling the expression of osteonectin and biglycan. The difference in expression of siblings (DMP-1, OPN and BSP) is in accordance with the repair accelerated bone formation after the application of LLLT as compared to control. The expression of osteonectin and osteocalcin supports their role in bone mineralization protein, indicating that LLLT accelerates this process. The overall data shows that LLLT bone changes dynamic array, shortening the time period involved in the bone repair. (c) 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Photochemistry and Photobiology (c) 2012 The American Society of Photobiology.

Photochem Photobiol 2012 May 14

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22582845

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Effect of low level laser therapy and zoledronate on the viability and ALP activity of Saos-2 cells.

Bayram H, Kenar H, Tasar F, Hasirci V

Hacettepe University, Fac. of Dentistry, Dept. of OMFS, Ankara, Turkey.

A limited number of clinical studies indicate the supportive role of low level laser therapy (LLLT) on medical and/or surgical approaches carried out in treatment modalities for bisphosphonate related necrosis of jaws (BRONJ), the most common side effect of bisphosphonates used to inhibit bone resorption. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of LLLT on cell proliferation and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity of human osteoblast-like cells (Saos-2) treated with different doses of zoledronate, the most potent bisphosphonate. Saos-2 cells were treated with different concentrations of zoledronate and were irradiated with diode laser (wavelength 808nm, 10s, 0.25 or 0.50W). Cell numbers and ALP activity of the cells were determined. LLLT mildly increased the proliferation rate or ALP activity, while zoledronate reduced both. When applied together, LLLT lessened the detrimental effects of zoledronate and improved cell function and/or proliferation. Based on the results of this study, it was concluded that LLLT has biostimulative effects on Saos-2 cells, even after treatment with zoledronate. LLLT may serve as a useful supportive method for BRONJ treatment through enhancement of healing by osteoblasts.

Int J Oral Maxillofac Surg 2012 May 7

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22571861

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Sino-European transcontinental basic and clinical high-tech acupuncture studies-part 3: violet laser stimulation in anesthetized rats.

Gao XY, Litscher G, Liu K, Zhu B

Stronach Research Unit for Complementary and Integrative Laser Medicine, Research Unit of Biomedical Engineering in Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, TCM Research Center Graz, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 29, 8036 Graz, Austria.

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of violet laser stimulation on three acupuncture points in anesthetized rats and to test the hypothesis that violet laser light can modulate neurovegetative parameters like heart rate (HR), heart rate variability (HRV), and mean arterial blood pressure (MAP). Recordings were performed in 10 male anesthetized rats under three conditions in Beijing, and monitored with equipment from Graz, where also data analysis was performed. For stimulation a violet laser (emitted wavelength 405 nm, laser output 1 mW, continuous mode) was used. The electrocardiograms were recorded by an HRV Medilog AR12 system during laser acupuncture stimulation of the head, ear, and body (Baihui, “heart” ear acupoint, Zusanli). HR changed significantly only during (P = 0.013) and after (P = 0.038) stimulation at Baihui. Total HRV and the low frequency/high frequency ratio showed insignificant changes. There was an insignificant decrease in MAP after stimulation of Baihui acupoint. Violet laser stimulation offers a method to induce acute effects in HR and HRV in rats. Although the precise mechanism of this effect remains to be determined, alterations are significant. Violet laser stimulation on the Baihui acupoint could readily be translated to clinical studies.

Evid Based Complement Alternat Med 2012 2012 402590

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22570672

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Low-level laser therapy induces the expressions of BMP-2, osteocalcin, and TGF-beta1 in hypoxic-cultured human osteoblasts.

Pyo SJ, Song WW, Kim IR, Park BS, Kim CH, Shin SH, Chung IK, Kim YD

Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Dentistry, Pusan National University, Beomeo, Mulgum, Yangsan, 626-770, Republic of Korea.

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on the cell viability and the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1s (HIF-1s), bone morphogenic protein-2 (BMP-2), osteocalcin, type I collagen, transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1), and Akt in hypoxic-cultured human osteoblasts. Human fetal osteoblast cells (cell line 1.19) were cultured under 1 % oxygen tension for 72 h. Cell cultures were divided into two groups. At the experimental side, low-level laser (808 nm, GaAlAs diode) was applied at 0, 24, and 48 h. After irradiation, each cell culture was incubated 24 h more under hypoxia. Total energy was 1.2, 2.4, and 3.6 J/cm(2), respectively. Non-irradiated cultures served as controls. Comparisons between the two groups were analyzed by t test; a p value
Lasers Med Sci 2012 May 3

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22552925

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Low-Level Laser Therapy and Calcitonin in Bone Repair: Densitometric Analysis

Tatiana Pinto Ribeiro,1 Simone Bustamante Nascimento,1 Claúdia Alessandra Cardoso,1 Raduan Hage,2 Janete Dias Almeida,3 and Emilia Angela Loschiavo Arisawa4

1Universidade do Vale do Paraíba (UNIVAP), 12244-000 São José dos Campos, SP, Brazil 2Health Science Faculty, Universidade do Vale do Paraíba (UNIVAP), 12244-000 São José dos Campos, SP, Brazil 3Department of Biosciences and Oral Diagnosis, São José dos Campos Dental School, São Paulo State University (UNESP), 12245-000 São José dos Campos, SP, Brazil 4Biomedical Vibrational Spectroscopy Laboratory, Research and Development Institute (IP&D), Universidade do Vale do Paraíba (UNIVAP), 12244-000 São José dos Campos, SP, Brazil

The aim of this work was to evaluate the association of low-level laser therapy (LLLT, 830 nm) and calcitonin in bone repair considering that bone healing remains a challenge to health professionals. Calcitonin has antiosteoclastic action and LLLT is a treatment that uses low-level lasers or light-emitting diodes to alter cellular function. Both are used to improve bone healing. Densitometry is a clinical noninvasive valuable tool used to evaluate bone mineral density (BMD). Sixty male rats were submitted to bone defect with a trephine bur, randomly divided into four groups of 15 animals each: control (C); synthetic salmon calcitonin (Ca); LLLT (La); LLLT combined with calcitonin (LaCa). Animals from Ca and LaCa received 2 UI/Kg synthetic salmon calcitonin intramuscularly on alternate days after surgery. Animals from groups La and LaCa were treated with infrared LLLT (830 nm, 10 mW, 20 J/cm2, 6 s, contact mode). Five animals from each group were euthanized 7, 14, and 21 days after surgery and bone defects were analyzed by densitometry. Statistical analysis showed a significant difference in BMD values in LaCa group at 7 and 21 days ( = 0,005). The results of the densitometric study showed that LLLT (830 nm) combined with calcitonin improved bone repair.

International Journal of Photoenergy Volume 2012 (2012), Article ID 829587, 5 pages

http://www.hindawi.com/journals/ijp/2012/829587/

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Topical therapies for Oral Lichen Planus management and their efficacy: a narrative review.

Bagan J, Compilato D, Paderni C, Panzarella V, Picciotti M, Lorenzini G, Di Fede O

Valencia University. Chairman Service of Stomatology. University General Hospital. Valencia. Avda de Tres Cruces s/n 46014 – Valencia, Spain. bagan@uv.es.

Oral Lichen Planus (OLP) is a chronic inflammatory condition implicating T cell-mediated cytotoxicity, and involving oral mucosal surfaces. Several therapeutic regimens have been evaluated to treat OLP and pain related, but often without high level of evidence. Topical formulations are the favourite for the majority of cases; bioadhesive formulations have been considered very useful and practical for local drug delivery in oral mucosa, due to the increased residence time on the oral mucosa of the dosage forms and better therapeutic efficacy. In this narrative review, authors try to illustrate the current topical managements for OLP from the accessible literature on this topic. Steroids are very helpful in discomfort and making better quality of life: they are considered the first-line treatment even if they could cause secondary candidosis, and sometimes bad taste, nausea, dry mouth, sore throat or swollen mouth. Other substances or devices by topical administration are adopted especially when the first line approach is refractory, this is the case when retinol with its synthetic and natural analogues (retinoids), hyaluronic acid, or Aloe Vera are chosen. Recent topical applications for OLP therapy include phototherapy and low/high energy pulsing light; the treatment with extracorporeal photochemotherapy is also reasonable and promising. Finally, calcineurin inhibitors (i.e. cyclosporine, tacrolimus and pimecrolimus), antioxidant and biologics (i.e alefacept, efalizumab, basiliximab, TNF-a inhibitors – infliximab, rituximab) may be alternative approaches when OLP does not respond to the standard protocols. In this scenario, there are several studies on molecules different from glucocorticosteroids, but not sufficient or statistically adequate to justify their evidence based use in OLP; large randomized placebo controlled trials are required to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of these non conventional therapies. In conclusion, since OLP is a chronic disease and requires long-term management, the dental/medical practitioner, who treats OLP patients, needs to know the natural history of OLP, how to monitor, and how to treat, taking in account all of the available modalities conventional and not, with pros and cons.

Curr Pharm Des 2012 May 25

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22632394

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Abstracts of the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery. April 18-22, 2012. Kissimmee, Florida, USA.

Lasers Surg Med 2012 Mar 44 Suppl 24 1-94

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22430604

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The diode laser in treating ulcerative oral lesions.

van As G

Dent Today 2011 Dec 30(12) 112

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22324112

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Present and new techniques and devices in the treatment of DFU: a critical review of evidence.

Gottrup F, Apelqvist J

Department of Dermatology, D42, Copenhagen Wound Healing Center, Bispebjerg University Hospital, Copenhagen NV, Denmark. fgottrup@post4.tele.dk

Management of foot ulcer in individuals with diabetes remains a major therapeutic challenge throughout the world. We performed a critical review of evidence of present and new techniques and devices in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcer. The golden standard for optimal evidence in the Cochrane system is level I – randomized controlled trials, and meta-analyses of several randomized controlled trials. Available evidence on different types of wound debridement; use of antimicrobials; use of dressings in wounds; topical negative pressure, hyperbaric oxygen treatment; electrical, electromagnetic, laser, shockwave, and ultrasound therapies; growth and cell biology factors; cell products and tissue engineering; bioengineered skin and skin grafts; and adjuvant therapies were evaluated. The results of this review show that there is limited evidence on the highest level to justify a change in routine clinical practice. There is a paucity of high-quality evidence, because the studies are often based on inadequate sample size, short follow-up, nonrandom allocation to treatment arms, nonblinded assessment of outcomes, poor description of control, and concurrent intervention. The heterogeneity of the population (of both people and ulcers), with multiple factors contributing to both ulcer onset and failure to heal, makes the trial design difficult in this field. Another fundamental reason for the lack of evidence is the general use of the outcome measure ‘complete healing’. In conclusion, when the results of this updated review are taken together with those of the earlier reports, they provide limited evidence to justify a change in routine clinical practice. For this reason, there is an urgent need to increase the quality of clinical studies. A re-evaluation of which type of research is acceptable for producing evidence in the wound area may be important in the future.

Diabetes Metab Res Rev 2012 Feb 28 Suppl 1 64-71

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22271726

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Laser dentistry, current advantages, and limits.

Nammour S

Photomed Laser Surg 2012 Jan 30(1) 1-4

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22217257

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Simple Low Level Laser Therapy device approach

S Stanescu and P.D Cristea

Low Level Laser Therapy is an application of light over the injuries or lesions to improve the healing. When the correct intensity and treatment times are used, laser light can reduce oxidative stress and increases the Adenosine Tri-Phosphate which improves cell’s metabolism and increases its health. The aim of this work is to develop a genuine low level laser therapy device consisting of a main unit and four probes which allow the user to select the modulation frequency, the exposure time and the laser power density delivered to the irradiated surface. It were designed a seven convergent beams probe which provides a wavelength of 655 nm, a single beam probe with a wavelength of 808 nm and another two probes consisting of 19 and 13 laser diodes at a wavelength of 635 nm. The hardware has a simplified approach while the device has a comprehensive genuine embedded firmware achieved in Flowcode®-4, a visual programming tool for microcontrollers

2012 Systems, Signals and Image Processing (IWSSIP), 2012 19th International Conference pp. 44–47

http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/xpl/login.jsp?tp=&arnumber=4054359&url=http%3A%2F%2Fieeexplore.ieee.org%2Fxpls%2Fabs_all.jsp%3Farnumber%3D4054359

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Conservative Treatment: LASER (Biostimulation and Minimally Invasive Surgical Treatment)

Paolo Vescovi

Several studies have shown a positive effect of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) using different wavelengths (argon, CO2, He-neon, Er:YAG, diode, Nd:YAG, and KTP) on the healing process in a wide range of cutaneous, mucosal, and bone disorders. LLLT reportedly stimulates osteoclast activity to promote bone resorption and remodeling. Soft-tissue healing is also improved by LLLT. The transformation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts can accelerate the healing of skin and mucosa. In particular, in conditions characterized by avascular necrosis, such as bisphosphonates-induced osteonecrosis of the jaw (BIONJ), it is essential to stimulate vascularization and soft-tissue tropism through an increase in blood flow by means of angiogenesis, capillary growth, and an increase in growth factor release. Laser can be used in the conservative surgical treatment of BIONJ patients. The procedure involves the vaporization of necrotic bone until healthy bone is reached. The minimal penetration of the erbium laser (0.1 mm) guarantees safety and allows for precise, minimally invasive surgery, inducing a much lower increase in bone temperature than conventional rotary tools (cold ablation). One undoubted advantage of this technique for BIONJ patients is the bactericidal action of the laser beam, in particular versus Actinomyces and anaerobes species. These considerations support the effectiveness of LLLT in the treatment of jawbone and mucosal defects related to BIONJ development or following tooth extractions in patients under bisphosphonates therapy. Thus, minimally invasive laser-assisted surgical treatment appears to be a promising approach for BIONJ management.

http://rd.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-88-470-2083-2_12

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Surgical Approach and Laser Applications in BRONJ Osteoporotic and Cancer Patients.

Vescovi P, Merigo E, Meleti M, Manfredi M, Fornaini C, Nammour S

Oral Medicine, Pathology and Laser-Assisted Surgery Unit and Section of Dentistry, Department of ENT/Dental/Ophthalmological and Cervico-Facial Sciences, University of Parma, Via Gramsci, 14-43100 Parma, Italy.

Bisphosphonates-related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (BRONJ) has been reported with increasing frequency in literature over last years, but its therapy is still a dilemma. One hundred ninety patients affected by BRONJ were observed between January 2004 and November 2011 and 166 treated sites were subdivided in five groups on the basis of the therapeutical approach (medical or surgical, traditional or laser-assisted approach, with or without Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)). Clinical success has been defined for each treatment performed as clinical improvement or complete mucosal healing. Combination of antibiotic therapy, conservative surgery performed with Er:YAG laser and LLLT applications showed best results for cancer and noncancer patients. Nonsurgical approach performed on 69 sites induced an improvement in 35 sites (50.7%) and the complete healing in 19 sites (27.5%), while surgical approach on 97 sites induced an improvement in 84 sites (86.6%) and the complete healing in 78 sites (80.41%). Improvement and healing were recorded in 31 (81.5%) and 27 (71.5%) out of the 38 BRONJ sites treated in noncancer patients and in 88 (68.75%) and in 69 (53.9%) out of the 128 in cancer patients.

J Osteoporos 2012 2012 585434

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&dopt=Citation&list_uids=22645701

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Posted in Research | on Low Level Laser Therapy LLLT / Cold Laser Literature watch for May 2012

Dogs, cats and horses get THOR LLLT / Low Level Laser Therapy treatment

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How LLLT Low Level Laser Therapy Works (video cartoon)

Posted in Special Feature, Video of the Week | on How LLLT Low Level Laser Therapy Works (video cartoon)

Two tigers and a bear get THOR LLLT / Low Level laser Therapy

As you probably know, LLLT / Low Level laser Therapy can be used on horses, dogs and cats. What about big cats and grizzly bears?
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