Fekrazad, R., & Chiniforush, N. (2014). Oral mucositis prevention and management by therapeutic laser in head and neck cancers. Journal of Lasers in Medical Sciences, 5, 1–7.
Purpose
STUDY PURPOSE: To assess the effect of low level laser therapy (LLLT) for oral mucositis
TYPE OF STUDY: Systematic review
Search Strategy
Literature Evaluated
Sample Characteristics
- FINAL NUMBER STUDIES INCLUDED = 24
- TOTAL PATIENTS INCLUDED IN REVIEW = 1,383
- SAMPLE RANGE ACROSS STUDIES: 1–221 patients
- KEY SAMPLE CHARACTERISTICS: Patients who have had hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT), patients with head and neck cancer receiving chemotherapy and radiation therapy, patients with other tumor types receiving chemotherapy, and two studies including pediatric cases
Phase of Care and Clinical Applications
PHASE OF CARE: Active antitumor treatment
APPLICATIONS: Pediatrics
Results
Most evidence showed a positive effect of LLLT on oral mucositis in delayed time of onset, lower peak severity, and shortened duration. One study in children showed no benefit of LLLT when optimal dental and oral care were provided.
Conclusions
LLLT is beneficial for the management of oral mucositis; however, ideal wavelengths, timing, and frequency of treatment are unclear.
Limitations
- Limited search
- No study quality evaluation
Nursing Implications
LLLT has been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of oral mucositis in patients undergoing transplantation and those receiving treatment for head and neck cancer. The specifics for optimal LLLT timing, duration, and so forth have not been determined. Further research on these aspects is needed.