Clinical trials in the UK which prove the effectiveness of PBM (Photobiomodulation Therapy) – otherwise known as Low Level Laser Therapy – look set to increase. Last year NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) approved therapeutic laser for oral mucositis (OM), one of the common side effects caused by radiotherapy and chemotherapy for cancer patients.

Clinicians at Southampton University Hospital carried out clinical trials to show the effectiveness of therapeutic laser for oral mucositis, to prevent the symptoms created from the side effect of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and / or to treat the symptoms of oral mucositis, which include inflammation and pain. NICE subsequently approved low-level laser as a safe and effective treatment for oral mucositis in the UK.

Laser Therapy for Oral Mucositis, also known as Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT) or Red Light Therapy, uses specific light wavelengths in the 600-1,000nm range of visible and invisible light (infrared and near infrared) to trigger a biological process of photobiomodulation,. Photobiomodulation generates energy at a mitochondrial level and angiogeneses (the formation of new blood capillaries) to intensify the healing process and reduce inflammatory conditions.

Laser Therapy has become more commonly known in recent years as Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT) and Red Light Therapy.Therapeutic Laser emits specific wavelengths into the skin, to create an increase in the production of ATP (energy) within the mitochondria at a cellular level within the dermis, which promotes an accelerated healing of damaged tissue. Low Level Laser is non-thermal, which means that is does not create heat within tissue. A treatment is without sensation, and may actually relieve pain at the same time as healing, because of a rise in endorphins and a reduction in pain receptors, also triggered by the process of Photobiomodulation Therapy.

Therapeutic Laser is used to treat many inflammatory conditions and is effective in management of acute and chronic pain. In America the FDA has approved low-level laser for many conditions.

Please find more information on the Laser Medicine Laser Therapy for Oral Mucositis Service.

Read more about the Southampton University low-level research trial here.

BOOK A CONSULTATION