This study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes and patient comfort levels after gingival depigmentation using ablative and non-ablative 450 nm diode lasers. Gingival pigmentation is a common esthetic concern that affects patients' self-confidence. Laser-assisted depigmentation has emerged as a popular treatment, with both ablative and non-ablative techniques showing promising results. However, limited comparative data exist regarding their relative efficacy and patient experience. A split-mouth, single-blind, randomized controlled trial was conducted on 20 patients with physiological gingival pigmentation scores of ≥2, based on the Dummett Oral Pigmentation Index (OPI). Each participant received ablative laser treatment on one side of the mouth and non-ablative treatment on the contralateral side. Outcome measures included changes in OPI and Melanin Pigmentation Index at baseline, 1 month, 6 months, and 12 months. Patient-reported pain and discomfort were assessed using a modified McGill Pain Questionnaire. Both techniques achieved successful depigmentation. Ablative laser treatment resulted in immediate pigment removal with lower repigmentation rates but was associated with higher intraoperative discomfort. Non-ablative treatment caused less pain and faster healing but required multiple sessions to achieve comparable results. Statistical analysis confirmed significant differences in repigmentation rates and patient comfort levels between the two modalities. Both ablative and non-ablative 450 nm diode lasers are effective for gingival depigmentation. The choice of technique should be tailored to patient preferences, with ablative lasers favored for immediate results and non-ablative lasers preferred for enhanced comfort and faster recovery.
Inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) sensory disturbance after mandibular third molar extraction can persist and affect speech, mastication, and quality of life. Photobiomodulation (PBM) has been used to promote peripheral nerve recovery, but the most suitable irradiation strategy remains unclear. Laser acupuncture (LA) delivers PBM to predefined acupoints and may provide both local and central neuromodulatory effects. To compare standardized LA with direct nerve-trajectory PBM for post-extraction IAN hypoesthesia in a randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled trial. Adults aged 18-60 years with unilateral IAN hypoesthesia lasting ≥7 days and ≤12 weeks were randomized (1:1:1) to LA, direct PBM along the external IAN projection, or sham treatment. All participants received mecobalamin (0.5 mg, three times daily) for 30 days. PBM was delivered using an 808-nm diode laser (continuous wave, 100 mW; beam area 1.0 cm2), 90 s/site (9 J; 9 J/cm2), every other day for 15 sessions. LA used a fixed 5 + 2 prescription: ST4, ST6, ST7, CV24, Jiachengjiang (EX-HN19), plus LI4 and PC6. Primary outcomes were two-point discrimination (TPD) and Semmes-Weinstein monofilament examination (SWME) at day 30. Secondary outcomes included Visual Analog Scale (VAS) numbness, additional sensory tests, and day-60 follow-up. Sixty participants completed the intervention. Both active groups improved more than sham for TPD and SWME (group × time p < 0.01). Mean TPD change at day 30 was -3.2 ± 1.8 mm (LA) and -2.6 ± 1.7 mm (direct PBM) versus -0.8 ± 1.1 mm (sham). SWME improved by ≥1 grade in 85%, 80%, and 25%, respectively. VAS numbness decreased by 60%, 48%, and 12%, respectively, and the improvement was largely maintained at day 60. No treatment-related adverse events occurred. Under matched PBM dosimetry, both irradiation strategies improved sensory recovery compared with sham. LA produced comparable results and was associated with greater improvement in patient-reported numbness.
To evaluate the clinical, microbiological, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) of Er:YAG laser and photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy compared with conventional mechanical debridement (MD) in the nonsurgical treatment of peri-implantitis. Forty-five patients with peri-implantitis were randomly assigned to MD (control, n = 24) or Er:YAG laser followed by PBM (test, n = 21). Clinical parameters [probing depth (PD), bleeding on probing (BoP), clinical attachment level (CAL), plaque index, recession, suppuration] and levels of Porphyromonas gingivalis and Filifactor alocis were assessed at baseline and 3 months. Treatment success, defined as PD ≤ 5 mm, BoP at ≤ 1 site, and absence of suppuration, was assessed at 3 months. PROMs, including postoperative pain, analgesic use, anesthesia requirement, and satisfaction, were recorded during the first postoperative week. Both groups showed significant clinical improvement (p < 0.001). The laser group demonstrated greater reductions in PD (-2.30 vs. -1.45 mm, p < 0.001), BoP (-73.0% vs. -42.4%, p = 0.004), and CAL (-2.56 vs. -1.47 mm, p = 0.001), with higher treatment success (81% vs. 42%, p = 0.007). P. gingivalis decreased significantly only in the laser group (p = 0.001), while F. alocis changes were not significant in both groups. PROMs favored the laser group, with lower postoperative pain, reduced analgesic use, and higher satisfaction (p < 0.05). Adjunctive Er:YAG and PBM therapy improved clinical outcomes, reduced P. gingivalis, and enhanced patient experience compared with MD. Er:YAG and PBM therapy may improve treatment success, enhance patient comfort, and support more predictable nonsurgical management of peri-implantitis.
To systematically evaluate the clinical efficacy, safety, and procedural outcomes of thulium fiber laser (TFL) compared to Holmium:YAG (Ho:YAG) in laser lithotripsy for urinary stones, based on a synthesis of randomized and comparative studies. This systematic review and meta-analysis followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 guidelines. PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Scopus were searched for studies published between January 2010 and March 2025. Eligible studies included randomized controlled trials and cohort studies directly comparing TFL and Ho:YAG in ureteroscopy or retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS). Primary outcomes were stone-free rate (SFR), operative time, complication rate, and retreatment rate. Meta-analyses were performed using a random-effects model; heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic. Twenty-eight studies were included (7 RCTs, 21 cohort studies), encompassing a total of 3672 patients. TFL was associated with a significantly higher SFR (93.5% vs. 87.2%, p < 0.01), shorter operative time (43.2 vs. 52.8 min, p < 0.001), and lower retreatment rates (4.2% vs. 7.6%, p < 0.01). Complication rates were comparable between groups. Heterogeneity among studies was moderate (I² = 62%); subgroup analysis and sensitivity testing were used to explore sources of variability. TFL demonstrates superior procedural outcomes compared to Ho:YAG in endourological management of urinary stones. Further research into next-generation systems-such as the Cyber Ho Magneto, which integrates high-power Ho:YAG output with TFL-like pulse modulation-may provide additional procedural benefits and warrants formal clinical evaluation.
The combination of lasers and acoustic shock waves has shown promising results in accelerating tattoo removal. To assess the effectiveness of treatments combining lasers and shock waves regarding the number of sessions required for successful tattoo removal. A prospective, observational, real-world, single-center study including adults (>18 years) with ≥one professional tattoo of any color on any body part, excluding the head, partially removed or not. Devices were the QS laser RevLite® SI (Cynosure Lutronic, USA), the picosecond laser PicoWay® (Candela, USA), the CO2 laser DUOGlide® with a SCAR 3 scanner (DEKA M.E.L.A. srl, Italy), and the GENTLE Pro® shock waves system (Zimmer MedizinSysteme GmbH, Germany). Treatment protocols consisted of QS/picosecond laser passes alternated with shock wave passes (three each) (classic protocol) and one QS/picosecond laser and one shock wave pass, a QS/picosecond second laser pass, and a final fractional CO2 laser pass (reinforced protocol). Sessions were performed at two-month intervals. We included 22 patients (68.2% women and 68.2% Fitzpatrick phototype III) with a mean (range) age of 42 (22-68) years and 25 tattoos in total. Most tattoos were black (92.0%) and were removed using the picosecond laser (80.0%) and following the classic (40.0%) and the reinforced (60.0%) protocols in a total of 66 treatment sessions. In 22 tattoos undergoing more than one session, results were good or excellent in 68.2% of them after 2-4 sessions, with no adverse effects. Acoustic shock wave therapy constitutes a safe adjuvant treatment to accelerate laser-based tattoo removal.
Laser-assisted irrigation may enhance chemomechanical debridement and improve the sealing of root canals during endodontic treatment. This study aimed to address the scientific deficit in understanding the laser-assisted sequential versus continuous chelation in root canal irrigation. One hundred and twenty single-rooted teeth were prepared using Reciproc R40 instruments and randomly divided into six groups (n = 20) based on the irrigation protocol. In the sequential chelation groups, canals were irrigated with NaOCl during instrumentation, followed by 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid using a needle, ultrasound, or erbium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet laser activation. In the continuous chelation groups, canals were irrigated with a mixture of 2% sodium hypochlorite and 9% hydroxyethylidene diphosphonic acid during and after instrumentation, followed by final activation using the same three techniques. Ten samples per group were used to evaluate sealer penetration with Fluo-3 dye, while the remaining samples underwent push-out bond strength testing. Statistical analyses were conducted using the Kruskal-Wallis and Friedman tests (p < 0.05). No significant differences in sealer penetration were found between sequential and continuous protocols in the apical third when needle or ultrasonic activation was used. However, laser activation combined with continuous chelation resulted in significantly higher sealer penetration and bond strength (p < 0.001). Sealer penetration followed the trend: coronal > middle > apical (p < 0.05) with all irrigation techniques. Continuous chelation protocols, especially when combined with laser activation, were as effective or superior to conventional methods in improving sealer penetration and bond strength. Continuous chelation with laser-assisted irrigation may improve clinical efficiency and shorten treatment time in root canal procedures.
To assess the effectiveness of photobiomodulation therapy for managing oral lichen planus (OLP) and recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS), including their outcomes and patient satisfaction with the safety profile. A systematic review was conducted by searching electronic databases like PubMed Central, PubMed, Cochrane, CrossRef, Google Scholar, and Embase. Articles published until June 2025 were reviewed using MeSH (Medical Subject Heading) and various combinations of the keywords: oral lichen planus, Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis, photobiomodulation therapy, and conventional drug therapy. We considered two different outcomes, such as pain and the size of the lesion. Due to the heterogeneity of the data, we did not conduct any statistical analysis. Initially, 560 publications were selected for this review article, and after analyzing all these, only 12 articles fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria. In all those studies, the laser wavelength, power output, and duration of irradiation changed between 630-980 m, 20-30 mW, and 10 sec-15 min have been described. Topical medications used in the comparative group were amlexanox, triamcinolone acetonide, granofurin, and socosenyl. Our findings showed that the photobiomodulation laser group is more effective for decreasing the pain and lesion size of RAS and OLP in comparison with the topical medication group. We can conclude that photobiomodulation therapy was better for treating RAS and OLP with greater healing, patient satisfaction, and lower recurrence rate in comparison with other topical drug therapies.
Background: Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory skin disease, and photo-based therapies have been adopted as noninvasive alternatives to pharmacological treatment.Objective: To systematically evaluate the therapeutic strategies and biological mechanisms of photo-based therapies in the management of acne vulgaris, focusing on sebum modulation, inflammation control, and the treatment of acne sequelae to inform phenotype-oriented clinical decision-making.Methods: Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, a systematic search was conducted in PubMed and Web of Science for studies published between 2005 and 2025. From an initial 2,218 records, 64 articles comprising 42 clinical trials and 22 experimental studies were selected for inclusion based on their focus on the efficacy, safety, and molecular mechanisms of light-emitting diodes (LED), intense pulsed light (IPL), laser systems, and photodynamic therapy (PDT).Results: Analysis revealed that photo-based modalities target acne through three primary pathways: 1. Sebum Modulation: Aminolevulinic acid (ALA)-PDT demonstrates superior, durable efficacy in moderate-to-severe acne by inducing sebocyte apoptosis and downregulating lipogenesis via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR and OLR1-Wnt/β-catenin pathways. 2. Inflammation Control: Blue and red light (LED) and IPL provide gradual anti-inflammatory effects suitable for mild-to-moderate acne by reducing C. acnes colonization and modulating cytokines such as TGF-β1, IL-10, and TNF-α. 3. Tissue Remodeling: For acne sequelae, fractional CO2 and picosecond lasers promote collagen remodeling to improve atrophic scars, while vascular-targeted lasers (PDL, Nd:YAG) and IPL effectively reduce post-inflammatory erythema (PAE) and hyperpigmentation (PIH).Conclusions: Photo-based therapies are phenotype-specific rather than interchangeable. Strategies targeting sebaceous activity and inflammation are central to treating active lesions, while tissue-remodeling interventions are most effective for managing sequelae. This review establishes a strategy-oriented framework that supports personalized, evidence-based treatment planning in routine clinical practice.
Cultural beauty ideals in South Asia favor both lighter skin and hair pigmentation, creating demand for various lightening procedures. The skin- and hair-lightening products currently on the market carry substantial health risks, including cutaneous adverse effects and systemic toxicity. Given these safety concerns, there's a critical need for safer alternatives. This study sought to explore the deliberate application of the Q-switched 1064-nm neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (QS 1064-nm Nd:YAG) laser for hair bleaching and to evaluate its concurrent effects on pigmentary clearance and skin rejuvenation in Indian subjects. This retrospective study analyzed 25 Indian subjects treated with a 1064 nm QS Nd:YAG laser for purposes including hair bleaching, lentigo removal, and skin toning. Participants received 1-3 monthly sessions, with efficacy assessed via clinical photography and a five-point hair lightening scale. Adverse events were documented to monitor safety. The cohort was predominantly female (96%) with higher skin phototypes. "Significant" hair lightening was achieved in 68% of cases, with "maximum" lightening in 8%. Larger spot sizes correlated with greater hair lightening. Beyond hair bleaching, 84% achieved "good" or "excellent" pigmentary clearance, and all saw at least "good" skin rejuvenation. Adverse events were mild and transient, with no significant hypo- or hyperpigmentation. Retinol/tretinoin use was linked to increased post-treatment erythema. All participants reported treatment satisfaction, with 69% achieving moderate to excellent satisfaction levels and no subjects reporting dissatisfaction. This study demonstrates that 1064 nm QS laser treatment effectively bleaches hair with an acceptable safety profile, offering a medically supervised alternative to hazardous chemical products. Its additional benefits for pigmentary clearance and skin rejuvenation position it as a promising aesthetic therapeutic modality.
Cervicogenic headache (CGH) is a secondary disorder caused by cervical musculoskeletal dysfunction in the cervical vertebrae, with involvement of the upper three cervical segments. The pain initiates in the neck and is often intensified by head or neck movements. This condition imposes a considerable socioeconomic burden, affecting both community well-being and public health systems. To explore how high-power laser therapy influences pain intensity, suboccipital muscle activity, functional disability, and quality of life (QoL) in patients with CGH. A randomized controlled trial was conducted on 40 participants (both males and females) diagnosed with CGH for a duration of at least 6 months, experiencing unilateral neck pain radiating to the suboccipital region. Participants were randomly allocated into two equal groups. The study group (A) received high-power Laser therapy in addition to a conventional physical therapy program, while the control group (B) received a placebo laser alongside the same conventional physical therapy program. Both groups received 3 times per week for 6 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 45-60 min. Outcome measures included the visual analog scale for pain intensity measurement, electromyography (EMG) to assess suboccipital muscle myoelectric activity, the Headache Impact Test-6 questionnaire to assess participants' functional health and well-being, the Neck Disability Index to assess functional impairment, and the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey to evaluate QoL. Assessments were performed before and after the intervention (6 weeks). Group A showed statistically significant improvements in pain intensity, EMG parameters, functional disability, headache impact, and QoL compared with Group B. High-power laser therapy, when used alongside conventional physiotherapy, may be an effective approach for reducing symptoms and improving functional outcomes in patients with CGH.
To investigate the impact of different post space sterilants, namely methylene blue (MB) photosensitizer (PS)-loaded chitosan nanoparticles (CHNPs), sepiolite nanoparticles (SepNPs), and Er, Cr: YSGG laser (ECL), on the smear layer (SL) removal and push-out bond strength (PBS) of glass fiber posts (GFPs) to canal dentin. A total of 52 single-rooted premolars were carefully selected, crowns were decoronated, and endodontic therapy was performed; subsequently, the samples were prepared for post space utilizing Gates-Glidden instruments. The specimens were categorized into four cohorts based on the disinfection regime (n = 13): Group 1: 2.5% NaOCl + ethylenediamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA), Group 2: MB-CHNPs-PDT + EDTA, Group 3: MB-SepNPs-PDT + EDTA, and Group 4: ECL + EDTA. SL removal analysis and PS-loaded nanoparticle characterization were executed using scanning electron microscopy. Self-cure resin cement was used for bonding GFP, followed by thermocycling. The evaluation of bond strength and the analysis of the fracture mode were conducted utilizing a universal testing machine and stereomicroscope, respectively. Data analysis was conducted using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and a post hoc test (p < 0.05). The cervical section of Group 2 (MB-CHNPs-PDT + EDTA) test specimens displayed the maximum cleaning of SL (1.22 ± 0.23) and the highest PBS (11.23 ± 0.12 MPa). However, the apical third of Group 1 (MB-SepNPs-PDT + EDTA) reported minimum SL removal (4.53 ± 0.17) and the lowest bond strength (6.65 ± 0.13 MP). Group 1 (2.5% NaOCl + EDTA) and Group 4 (ECL + EDTA) presented no significant variation in SL elimination and PBS of GFP. Using EDTA co-application, the MB-loaded CHNP protocol was associated with lower smear layer scores and higher PBS compared with the other tested groups.
To evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of Er:YAG laser for disinfection of softened carious dentin using subablative parameters. Current literature lacks robust scientific evidence supporting the use of Er:YAG laser for disinfection of the entire carious dentin without mechanical removal. Ninety permanent third molars were used; 75 were allocated to microbiological evaluation and 15 to scanning electron microscopy. Artificial dentin carious lesions were produced using a microcosm biofilm model, and specimens were randomly assigned to five groups according to the cavity disinfection protocol (n = 15): Group C (positive control)-carious lesions with no disinfection procedure; Group antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT, negative control)-application of 0.005% methylene blue followed by low-level laser irradiation delivering 9 J of energy; Group Er:YAG, parameter A-irradiation with Er:YAG laser at 50 mJ of energy; Group Er:YAG, parameter B-irradiation at 40 mJ; and Group Er:YAG, parameter C-irradiation at 20 mJ. A repetition rate of 15 Hz was used for all Er:YAG-irradiated groups. Microbiological outcomes (CFU/mL) were analyzed using the nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis test followed by Dunn's post hoc test, with a significance level set at 5%. A significant microbial reduction in dentin carious lesions was observed after irradiation with Er:YAG laser at 50 mJ (parameter A) and aPDT (p < 0.0001). In contrast, irradiation at 40 mJ (parameter B) and 20 mJ (parameter C) did not result in a significant reduction of the cariogenic microbiota (p > 0.05). No significant difference was detected between the microbial reduction achieved with Er:YAG laser at 50 mJ (parameter A) and aPDT (p > 0.05). Er:YAG laser irradiation at 50 mJ demonstrated antimicrobial efficacy comparable with aPDT for disinfection of softened carious dentin, with a shorter operative time, supporting its potential use as an alternative treatment in minimally invasive dentistry.
Lumbar disc herniation (LDH) is a prevalent major cause of low back pain and radicular syndromes in the lower extremities. Elevated disc herniation volumes and the subsequent progression of spinal canal compromise are positively correlated with higher severity of radicular symptoms, functional disability, and neurological deficits. To investigate the impact of high-intensity laser therapy (HILT) on disc size and functional outcomes in patients with LDH. This study enrolled 40 patients of both sexes (40% male and 60% female), ages from 30 to 45 years, all presenting with lumbosacral radiculopathy secondary to L4-L5 or L5-S1 disc herniation. Participants were randomly assigned to two equal groups. Group A (study group) received HILT group treated with a combined standard physical therapy exercise program, while Group B (control group) underwent a sham HILT procedure alongside the same physical therapy exercise program. Interventions were conducted three times a week over 6 weeks. The primary outcome was the change in disc herniation size in anteroposterior, transverse, and posterior vertical diameter as measured by magnetic resonance imaging. The secondary outcomes included pain intensity assessed by the visual analogue scale (VAS) and functional disability assessed by the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). The HILT group demonstrated statistically significant reductions in all disc size parameters compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Additionally, the HILT group showed significantly higher reduction in VAS scores (63.88% vs. 26.04%) and ODI scores (53.5% vs. 24.58%) compared with the control group (p < 0.001). HILT serves as a potent noninvasive modality for reducing the herniated lumbar discs size and providing significant pain relief and improving functional outcomes in individuals with lumbosacral radiculopathy.
Total knee and hip arthroplasty (TKA/THA) effectively alleviate chronic pain and improve joint function and quality of life. However, postoperative recovery is often hindered by pain, edema, restricted range of motion (ROM), and muscle weakness, necessitating structured physical rehabilitation. Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT) has been proposed as an adjunct modality to enhance rehabilitation outcomes. This systematic review evaluates the efficacy of PBMT in reducing postoperative pain and edema as well as improving ROM and functional performance compared with placebo or standard physical therapy in post-arthroplasty patients. A systematic search of PubMed, ProQuest, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar was conducted from inception to May 31, 2025. Only prospective controlled trials assessing PBMT effects on postoperative pain, swelling, ROM, or functional performance following TKA or THA were included. Case reports, uncontrolled studies, and trials focusing on unrelated outcomes were excluded. Article selection involved title, abstract, and full-text screening, with additional studies identified through reference lists. The review is registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251123169). Four randomized controlled trials (RCTs; n = 133 participants) met the inclusion criteria, three studies focused on TKA, and one study examined THA. PBMT significantly improved postoperative pain and edema reduction in three trials, while two studies demonstrated enhanced ROM and functional outcomes compared with control or placebo interventions. PEDro scores ranged from 8 to 10, indicating moderate-to-high methodological quality. PBMT shows promising short-term benefits in reducing postoperative pain and swelling and improving functional performance after knee or hip arthroplasty. However, due to heterogeneity in treatment parameters and limited high-quality trials, conclusive evidence remains insufficient. Future large-scale RCTs with standardized PBMT parameters and extended follow-up are warranted to confirm its clinical efficacy.
This study evaluated how photobiomodulation caused by laser irradiation influences the osseointegration of titanium dental implants installed in rat tibiae. A titanium implant was inserted after a bone defect was created in each tibia of 18 rats. The right tibia was treated with low-level laser therapy (LLLT) using a Nd:YAG laser (LT group) every other day until sacrifice, with the opposite side serving as a control (Control group). At 2, 3, and 4 weeks after implantation, tibiae were collected, and a torque test was performed. After performing X-ray and micro-computed tomography, bone volume (BV) and bone mineral density (BMD) of new bone formation in the defects after implant removal were calculated from three-dimensional images, and all tibiae were analyzed histologically. BV and BMD were highest in the LT group at 2 weeks and decreased at 3 and 4 weeks. Removal torque values in both groups were lowest at 2 weeks and increased at 3 and 4 weeks. There were significantly higher removal torque values of the LT group than in the Control group at 2 and 3 weeks, whereas no significant differences between groups were evident at 4 weeks. This suggested that LLLT using a Nd:YAG laser significantly accelerated bone formation during the healing process at 2 weeks, and osseointegration between bone and the implant body may have been enhanced at 2 and 3 weeks. Nd:YAG laser therapy appears effective for promoting bone formation and osseointegration of implants in rat tibiae.
Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a noninvasive light therapy that penetrates deeper skin layers, using wavelengths such as near-infrared. Different wavelengths target specific cellular components and pathways, influencing wound healing. Light absorption by both mitochondria and light-sensitive ion channels increases intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, thereby affecting inflammation, platelet activation, angiogenesis, tissue remodeling, and cell viability. Concurrent use of multiple wavelengths has an advantage, activating distinct pathways involved in the wound-healing process. This in vitro study aimed to investigate the effects of concurrent PBM on fibrablasts using a dual-wavelength system (655 nm and 808 nm). The effects of concurrent PBM application at three energy densities on cell viability, intracellular ROS levels, and cell migration were assessed using two modalities: single- and triple-treatment protocols. Three different energy densities (0.5, 1, and 2 J/cm2) of a dual wavelength system were used, and applications were performed using single or triple applications. Cellular responses were evaluated by assessing viability, ROS generation, and migration. Concurrent PBM application at an energy density of 1 J/cm2 showed a synergistic effect, increasing cell viability by 3%, intracellular ROS levels by 20%, and accelerating wound closure by 89% compared with the untreated group. Concurrent dual-wavelength PBM application may reduce treatment duration and enhance wound healing, offering a promising approach for targeting multiple layers and substructures of complex biological tissue in in vivo models and clinical applications.
Conventional root canal therapy relies on mechanical instrumentation and chemical irrigation; however, the complex anatomy of the root canal system often compromises complete disinfection, particularly of anaerobic bacterial biofilms, resulting in persistent or recurrent infections. Laser-assisted endodontic therapy has emerged as an effective adjunct, enhancing antimicrobial efficacy through photothermal effects, photodynamic action, and cavitation, thereby improving disinfection in anatomically inaccessible regions. In addition, laser therapy has been shown to stimulate stem cell proliferation, modulate inflammatory responses, reduce postoperative pain, and promote apical tissue regeneratiojn. Currently, Er:YAG, diode, Nd:YAG, and CO2 lasers are widely used for refractory infection control, smear layer removal, and dentin hypersensitivity reduction. Moreover, laser-nanoparticle interactions further enhance antibacterial efficacy. This narrative review summarizes the applications of laser technology in root canal disinfection, pulp regeneration, and pain management, providing a scientific and clinical basis for the treatment of persistent fistulas and refractory root canal infections.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of intravenous laser irradiation of blood (ILIB) therapy as an adjunct treatment for patients with ischemic stroke. Despite the diverse medical applications of ILIB, there was no strong evidence on the efficacy of ILIB for improving the clinical outcomes of ischemic stroke. A total of 22 patients with ischemic stroke were randomly assigned to either the ILIB or the control group. The ILIB group received intravenous laser therapy, whereas the control group received the same intervention but without the output power. The after outcome measures were assessed at baseline and at 3 days, 1 month, and 3 months post intervention: National Institute of Health Stroke Scale score, modified Rankin Scale score, Stroke Impact Scale (SIS) score, Fugl-Meyer assessment-Motor Function (FMA-MF) score, and 6-minute walking test (6-MWT) performance. In total, 10 and 12 participants were randomized to the ILIB and control groups, respectively. Compared with the control group, the ILIB group showed significantly better SIS scores at the 3-month follow-up (p = 0.019), significantly higher FMA-MF scores at the 3-day and 3-month follow-ups (p = 0.003 and p = 0.022), and significantly better 6-MWT performance at the 3-day follow-up (p = 0.018). ILIB therapy provided short-term improvements in functional outcomes, including SIS, FMA-MF scores, and 6-MWT, in patients with ischemic stroke.
Demodex folliculorum infestation is an important contributor to meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) and chronic ocular surface disease. This study evaluated and compared the therapeutic efficacy of intense pulsed light (IPL) and eyelid hygiene (ELH) for Demodex-associated MGD. In this prospective, randomized comparative trial, 50 patients (100 eyes) with Demodex-associated MGD were allocated to two arms. Group A (n = 25) received three Eyesis IPL sessions at baseline, week 2, and week 4. Group B (n = 25) performed daily eyelid hygiene with OCuSOFT Lid Scrub for 6 weeks. Ocular surface parameters, including ocular surface disease index (OSDI), tear film lipid layer thickness (TFLL), noninvasive tear film break-up time (NITBUT), meibomian gland dropout, meibum quality and expressibility, corneal fluorescein staining (CFS), Schirmer's I, and Demodex count, were assessed from baseline to week 6. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and intraocular pressure (IOP) were recorded at each visit. Both treatments significantly improved OSDI, NITBUT, TFLL, Schirmer's I, and CFS over 6 weeks (all p < 0.001). Compared with ELH, IPL achieved larger and earlier reductions in symptoms, greater increases in TFLL, and superior improvements in meibum quality and expressibility from week 4 onward (between-group p ≤ 0.021). Demodex counts decreased significantly in both groups with no between-group difference at week 6. BCVA, IOP, and adverse events remained stable, indicating a favorable short-term safety profile. IPL and ELH are effective for Demodex-related MGD, but IPL provides faster and more pronounced improvements in meibomian gland function, tear film stability, and patient-reported symptoms over 6 weeks.
Prostate cancer ranks highest in male diagnoses and second in cancer-related deaths. Conventional treatments necessitate exploration of new modalities due to their side effects. Sonophotodynamic therapy (SPDT) represents a potential anticancer approach that integrates both sonodynamic and photodynamic therapies to improve the efficacy of cancer treatments. This study aims to evaluate and compare the mechanisms and anticancer efficacy of photodynamic therapy, sonodynamic therapy, and SPDT using methylene blue (MB) and aluminum phthalocyanine (AlPc) in the androgen-sensitive and androgen-insensitive prostate cancer cell lines. Cells were cultivated using different concentrations of MB and AlPc, followed by the exposure to ultrasound and/or light irradiation. Cell metabolic activity was assessed using the MTT assay, which evaluates mitochondrial enzyme function as an indicator of viability rather than clonogenic survival. Additionally, apoptosis was evaluated using Hoechst staining and Western blot analysis of apoptotic proteins, while reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant levels were determined through biochemical assays. Results showed significant proliferation inhibition, with SPDT exhibiting the highest efficacy. MB demonstrated superior efficiency compared to AlPc. The treatment groups displayed a greater quantity of apoptotic cells, indicating elevated levels of caspase-3, caspase-8, PARP, and Bax proteins, whereas levels of caspase-9 and Bcl-2 were lower compared to the control groups. Additionally, the treatments resulted in increased levels of ROS and malondialdehyde, while antioxidant activities were diminished. In summary, SPDT mediated by MB and AlPc presents promising potential for treating prostate cancer and may significantly contribute to apoptotic mechanisms.