Effects of phototherapy in patients with idiopathic facial palsy: Scoping review

Abstract

Phototherapy has emerged as a promising treatment for Bell’s palsy, offering potential improvements in facial nerve function and overall well-being. In this study, we selected seven relevant studies involving 306 patients with subacute or acute Bell’s palsy from PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Scopus before June 5, 2024. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) efficacy for facial nerve paralysis was assessed in seven studies. Two studies lacked standard deviation data, precluding meta-analysis. Sunnybrook scores favored LLLT (mean difference [MD] = 17.42, 95 % confidence interval [CI]: 4.00–30.84, p = 0.011). However, Facial Disability Index results showed no significant difference (MD = 12.16, 95 % CI: −0.60 to 24.92, p = 0.061) between LLLT and control. LLLT, particularly with wavelengths of 830 or 850 nm administered over 6 weeks, may lead to beneficial outcomes. Combining LLLT with exercise therapy appears to be effective．LLLT demonstrates promise as a management option for Bell’s palsy, potentially offering advantages over other treatments, particularly in patients with comorbidities, such as diabetes. Phototherapy devices currently used in Japan offer non-invasive treatment with minimal patient burden. The safety and therapeutic efficacy of these devices have been confirmed as a potential treatment for facial nerve paralysis.