Efficacy of low-level laser therapy and microsurgery on neurosensory recovery following inferior alveolar and lingual nerve injuries: A systematic review

Gharam Alharbi ¹, Jingade Krishnojirao Dayashankara Rao ², Tariq Alnaim ³

⁰College of Dentistry, Qassim University, Qassim, Saudi Arabia.

Journal of Oral Biology and Craniofacial Research +

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September 12, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) shows promise for nerve injury recovery, even after six months. Microsurgery also aids recovery, with early intervention recommended for best results in inferior alveolar and lingual nerve injuries.

Area Of Science

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Regenerative Medicine
Neurosurgery

Background

Iatrogenic injuries to the inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) and lingual nerve (LN) can cause significant neurosensory deficits.
Sustained injuries (>6 months) present challenges for neurosensory recovery.
Current treatment options include microsurgery, but effectiveness for chronic injuries varies.

Purpose Of The Study

To systematically review and compare the effectiveness of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) and microsurgery for neurosensory recovery.
To evaluate treatment outcomes for iatrogenic IAN and LN injuries sustained more than six months prior.
To assess the potential of LLLT as a therapeutic option for delayed nerve repair.

Main Methods

A systematic review of six relevant studies was conducted.
Studies included assessments of both subjective and objective neurosensory function.
Four studies focused on LLLT, and two on microsurgery, all involving patients with >6-month-old IAN/LN injuries.

Main Results

Both LLLT and microsurgery demonstrated positive outcomes in neurosensory recovery.
LLLT showed efficacy even when initiated more than six months post-injury.
Microsurgery also showed improvement, with a general recommendation for early intervention.

Conclusions

LLLT presents a promising, minimally invasive option for neurosensory rehabilitation in chronic nerve injuries.
Microsurgery is effective, particularly with early intervention.
Further high-quality randomized controlled trials are needed to optimize LLLT protocols and confirm its long-term efficacy.

Keywords:

Inferior alveolar nerve damage Lingual nerve damage Low level laser therapy Micro neurosurgery Neurosensory disturbance Photobiomodulation therapy Superpulsed low level laser therapy