Photobiomodulation for knee osteoarthritis: a model-based dosimetry study.
Zefeng Feng1,2, Peipei Wang2,3, Yang Song2
1School of Biomedical Engineering, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China.
Biomedical Optics Express
|April 20, 2023
Summary
Photobiomodulation therapy for knee osteoarthritis (KOA) effectiveness depends on light dose. This study developed an optical model to optimize light delivery for better KOA treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Optics
- Biophotonics
- Osteoarthritis Research
Background:
- LED-based photobiomodulation (LED-PBM) shows promise for knee osteoarthritis (KOA) treatment.
- Accurate light dosimetry is crucial for effective phototherapy but remains challenging in KOA.
- Understanding light penetration and distribution in knee tissues is essential for optimizing LED-PBM.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate dosimetric issues in LED-PBM for KOA.
- To develop and validate an optical model of the knee for phototherapy simulations.
- To determine the influence of light source characteristics on therapeutic light doses in the knee.
Main Methods:
- Development of a knee optical model.
- Monte Carlo (MC) simulations for light transport analysis.
- Validation of the model using tissue phantoms and in vivo knee experiments.
Main Results:
- The optical model accurately simulated light distribution in knee tissues.
- Light source divergence angle and wavelength significantly impact delivered light doses.
- Optimal irradiation of the knee for maximum articular cartilage dose is on either side of the patella.
Conclusions:
- The developed optical model provides a tool for optimizing LED-PBM parameters for KOA.
- Precise control over light source characteristics and irradiation position can enhance phototherapy effectiveness.
- This research aids in developing more targeted and effective photobiomodulation strategies for knee osteoarthritis.
