Effects of ILIB on anxiety and physiological parameters during third molar surgery: a pilot randomized trial

This pilot study aimed to investigate the effects of intravascular laser irradiation of blood (ILIB) on anxiety levels and vital signs in patients undergoing third molar extraction. A randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted with 26 patients who underwent mandibular third molar extraction. Participants were allocated to either the placebo group (n = 13) or the ILIB group (n = 13). ILIB was applied via transcutaneous over the radial artery for 30 min before the surgical procedure. Anxiety levels were assessed using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-Y, state subscale) at baseline and four minutes after local anesthesia. Vital signs, including heart rate (HR), systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and oxygen saturation, were also recorded at these two time points. There was no significant difference in anxiety status between the ILIB and placebo groups. However, the ILIB group demonstrated a statistically significant HR stability after local anesthesia compared to the placebo group. All parameters remained within normal limits throughout the procedure. Despite its pilot nature and small sample size, this study indicates that ILIB is feasible in routine clinical practice. Although it did not reduce anxiety compared to a placebo, ILIB helped stabilize HR after local anesthesia, suggesting a potential physiological benefit. Further research is needed to assess its clinical relevance, especially in patients with severe anxiety or systemic conditions. Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry - REBEC no. RBR-9ycg67p. Registration, March 10^th, 2023.