Low-Level Laser Therapy in Maxillofacial Trauma: A Prospective Single-Arm Observational Study

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Regenerative Medicine
• Neurology

Background:

• Maxillofacial trauma surgery can cause iatrogenic nerve injuries, commonly affecting the infraorbital, inferior alveolar, and mental nerves.
• Paresthesia is a frequent complication due to the vulnerable anatomical location of these nerves.
• Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is an emerging treatment with potential benefits for nerve repair.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prospectively evaluate the efficacy of LLLT in promoting nerve recovery after maxillofacial trauma surgery.
• To assess sensory recovery using validated clinical tests following LLLT intervention.

Main Methods:

• A prospective observational study involving 21 participants undergoing maxillofacial surgery.
• LLLT was administered postoperatively along the pathways of injured nerves using a specific device.
• Nerve function was monitored using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Brush Stroke Direction (BSD) test.

Main Results:

• Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores demonstrated significant reductions by LLLT sessions 7 and 10 compared to baseline.
• Brush Stroke Direction (BSD) test responses indicated improved sensory recovery over the course of LLLT treatment.
• A statistically significant improvement was noted at the 10th session after accounting for multiple comparisons.

Conclusions:

• Multi-session LLLT appears feasible for managing nerve recovery post-maxillofacial trauma.
• The observational data support LLLT as a potential therapeutic modality.
• Further controlled clinical trials are necessary to definitively establish the efficacy of LLLT for these nerve injuries.