Photobiomodulation, photomedicine, and laser surgery最新文献

Background: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) combined with biliary stenting reportedly has better efficacy and safety in the treatment of extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (EHC). Considering the shortcomings of traditional PDT methods, we proposed a novel modified approach, defined as initial biliary stent placement followed by PDT, for the treatment of EHC. The study aimed to evaluate the effect and safety of biliary stent placement prior to PDT versus only stent placement on the treatment of EHC. Methods: A total of 30 patients diagnosed with EHC between January 2017 and December 2024 were included in the retrospective study. Ten patients underwent biliary stent placement, followed by PDT (Stenting with PDT group). Survival time, surgical success rate, and postoperative adverse events were compared to 20 patients receiving biliary stent placement alone (Stenting only group). Results: The success rate of all operations in both groups was 100%. After 96 months of follow-up, the stenting with PDT group had significantly longer median survival after stent placement than the stenting only group (10.5 vs. 4.0 months, p = 0.028). There were no statistically significant differences in the rates of postoperative total adverse events (5 [25%] vs. 2 [20%], p = 1.000), asymptomatic hyperamylasemia (1 [5%] vs. 1 [10%], p = 1.000), acute pancreatitis (4 [20%] vs. 1 [10%], p = 0.272), and postoperative acute cholangitis (0 vs. 1 [10%], p = 0.333) between the two groups. Conclusions: Compared with stenting alone, modified stenting combined with PDT resulted in longer survival in patients with unresectable EHC without significant adverse events.

Background: Depression is a prevalent mental disorder characterized by mental suffering and emotional distress. Its pathogenesis involves the concurrent action of multiple factors, including genetic predisposition, stress exposure, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysregulation, imbalances in neurotransmitters and their receptors, inflammatory responses, and mitochondrial malfunction. Photobiomodulation (PBM), a noninvasive therapeutic approach, has shown potential in treating mood disorders such as depression and has emerged as a promising intervention for various pathologies; however, unified standards for PBM irradiation parameters (e.g., based on species, gender, age) are currently lacking. Objective: This review aims to introduce the potential mechanisms underlying depression and summarize the latest pre-clinical and clinical progress of PBM in the treatment of this mood disorder. Materials and Methods: As a narrative review, this work synthesizes and analyzes existing literature on the pathological mechanisms of depression and the application of PBM in depression treatment. Results Polytherapy with PBM targeting multiple biological pathways exerts beneficial effects on depression. Specifically, PBM enhances mitochondrial function in the brain, promotes neurogenesis and synaptogenesis, regulates neurotransmitter homeostasis, and provides neuroprotection through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions, while simultaneously supplying energy to brain tissues. Additionally, the curative effect of PBM is found to be associated with multiple factors, including irradiation parameters, species, gender, and age, highlighting the lack of unified parameter standards in current research. Conclusions: PBM exhibits therapeutic potential for depression by modulating key pathological pathways (e.g., mitochondrial function, neurogenesis, inflammation). The latest pre-clinical and clinical evidence supports its role as a promising noninvasive intervention. However, the establishment of unified PBM irradiation parameters is essential for standardizing its clinical application in depression treatment. Future research should focus on optimizing parameter standards to enhance the efficacy and reproducibility of PBM therapy.

Objective: This in vitro study aimed to compare the antibacterial properties of 2% chlorhexidine (CHX) and 0.2% nano chitosan, with and without Er:YAG laser activation using a side-firing tip, against Enterococcus faecalis. It evaluates their potential to improve disinfection in endodontic treatments and assesses the impact of laser activation on antimicrobial efficacy. Background: Successful endodontic treatment relies on effective root canal disinfection, often hindered by E. faecalis, which invades dentinal tubules. While sodium hypochlorite is effective, it can cause cytotoxicity and dentin damage. CHX is a biocompatible alternative, and nanochitosan offers promising antimicrobial properties with low toxicity. However, conventional irrigation methods are often insufficient. Er:YAG laser activation enhances irrigant penetration into dentinal tubules, improving antimicrobial effects. Method: Extracted human premolars were inoculated with E. faecalis and divided into four groups: Group A (2% CHX), Group B (0.2% nano chitosan), Group C (2% CHX + Er:YAG laser), and Group D (0.2% nano chitosan + Er:YAG laser). Bacterial counts were measured using colony-forming units on Mueller Hinton agar. Results: CHX showed superior antibacterial efficacy compared with nanochitosan. Laser activation significantly enhanced the antimicrobial effect of both irrigants, with Group C (CHX + laser) showing the greatest reduction in bacterial colonies. Conclusion: Er:YAG laser activation improves the antimicrobial effectiveness of both CHX and nano chitosan, particularly in combination, offering a promising approach for root canal disinfection. Furthermore, clinical studies are needed to confirm these findings in vivo.

Objective: Investigate the effects of transcranial plus intranasal photobiomodulation (PBM) treatment on cognitive function, using an 810 nm light emitting diode headset and intranasal applicator every other day for 8-10 weeks. Background Data: An effective gold standard for the rehabilitation of repetitive head acceleration events (RHAEs) does not yet exist. Methods: Forty-four participants with a history of RHAEs completed a battery of cognitive tests before and after PBM treatment. Data were analyzed at the group level (paired samples t-tests, controlling for multiple comparisons) and on the individual-person level (reliable change indices). Results: On a group level, participants demonstrated statistically significant improvements with moderate-to-large effect sizes in fluid cognition, verbal learning and memory, attention and working memory, and aspects of executive function following PBM treatment. Specific improvements were observed in verbal learning/encoding and delayed recall, sustained attention, errors of omission and commission, working memory, inhibition, and cognitive switching. On the individual level, 0-36% of participants showed reliable improvement across cognitive measures, depending on the subtest; changes were greatest on measures of attention and memory. Conclusions: Results suggest that PBM treatment may be a promising intervention for improving cognitive function in individuals with a history of RHAEs. Observed improvements in cognitive function following PBM treatment may have important implications for the prevention and treatment of cognitive impairments associated with RHAEs. Further studies with more robust research designs that utilize clinical trial methodologies are needed to confirm and extend these findings.

Background: Transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) is a promising noninvasive neuromodulation modality with potential therapeutic benefits for neurodegenerative diseases. Infrared light delivered by a tPBM device penetrates the cortex, stimulating neuronal activity by increasing mitochondrial adenosine triphosphate production and enhancing regional cerebral blood flow. Objective: This study investigated the efficacy and safety of a self-administered, at-home, wearable tPBM device for improving cognitive function in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) due to Alzheimer's disease (AD). Methods: Individuals with MCI due to AD, diagnosed according to the National Institute on Aging and Alzheimer's Association criteria, with a Korean version of Mini-Mental State Examination-2 (K-MMSE2) score of 23-27 and a global Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) score of 0.5-1.0 were enrolled. Subjects self-administered tPBM six times per week for 12 weeks. Assessments were conducted at weeks 7 and 13 using the Korean version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (K-MoCA), K-MMSE2, the Korean version of the Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's Disease, and the Geriatric Depression Scale. Results: A total of 26 participants were enrolled. The treatment group showed a statistically significant improvement in K-MoCA scores at week 13 (p < 0.05) compared with the sham group. Although K-MMSE2 scores improved in the treatment group, the difference was not statistically significant. No serious adverse events were reported. Conclusion: Findings suggest that tPBM is an effective and safe home-use intervention for individuals with MCI, with promising therapeutic and preventative roles in Alzheimer's dementia.

Background: Photobiomodulation (PBM), a noninvasive therapy using red and near-infrared light, has shown promising benefits in neuropathology. However, the transmission of PBM to the central nervous system through the scalp's soft tissues and skull is unknown. We hypothesize that decompressive craniectomy (DC) for moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) improves PBM penetrance and enhances neurorehabilitation. Method: Adult male and female Long-Evans rats were utilized to evaluate PBM tissue penetrance and its efficacy on motor deficit recovery following TBI and DC. TBI was induced using a hit-and-run closed-head model, which replicates clinical closed-head trauma. PBM transmittance was measured ex vivo using rat scalp soft tissue and hemicranium samples, with optical power and energy meter readings to quantify penetrance. Functional motor recovery was assessed using a beam walk test to quantify limb deficits defined by forelimb and hindlimb slips. Results: Analysis demonstrated attenuation of 660 nm and 850 nm PBM intensity during transcranial transmission, with scalp skin and cranial bone reducing irradiance from 70.5 mW/cm² to 3.96 mW/cm² for 660 nm PBM and from 82 mW/cm² to 4.96 mW/cm² for 850 nm PBM. Beam walk testing revealed significantly fewer hindlimb slips in PBM-treated rats (660 nm: 1.54, 850 nm: 1.86) compared with untreated TBI controls (4.3 slips), suggesting improved motor recovery. Conclusion: Our study indicates that both PBM are attenuated by both scalp soft tissues and the hemicranium, yet both penetrate sufficiently following DC for moderate-to-severe TBI. Our findings suggest that PBM enhances neurorehabilitation outcomes with improved motor recovery in rats with TBI.

Aim: To investigate the efficacy of diode laser (DL), photodynamic therapy (PDT), and ozone water on the removal of smear layer (SL) and its assessment via scanning electron microscope (SEM) following its effect on shear bond strength (SBS) on carious affected dentin. Materials and Methods: Sixty-six caries-affected dentin (CAD) samples were obtained from the dental outpatient department. The occlusal enamel and infected dentin of the included samples were meticulously excised using a water-cooled, slow-speed device, resulting in a flat mid-coronal CAD surface. Based on the effectiveness of SL removal techniques, the samples were categorized into groups (n = 11 each). Group 1: no treatment, Group 2: DL, Group 3: PDT-activated methylene blue (MB), Group 4: 16 ppm ozonated water, Group 5: 17% ethylenediamine tetra-acetic acid (EDTA), and Group 6: 37% phosphoric acid (PA). One pair of samples from each group was assessed under SEM following different conditioning regimes. The remaining samples underwent the application of an adhesive 7th-generation single-bottle adhesive and composite placement. All bonded samples were aged, and SBS assessment was performed via a universal testing machine, and unbonded surfaces were assessed under a stereomicroscope. A one-way analysis of variance was employed, followed by Tukey honestly significant difference (HSD) post hoc tests. Statistical significance was established at a p value of less than 0.05. Results: The highest SL removal efficiency was observed in the PA group. The lowest SL removal efficacy was examined in the no-treatment group. SL removal efficiency via DL and EDTA was found to be comparable (p > 0.05) and significantly lower than samples conditioned with PA (p < 0.05). Samples conditioned with PDT-activated MB and ozonated water had comparable micro (μ)- SBS scores (p > 0.05). Samples conditioned via EDTA, PA, and diode demonstrated cohesive failure predominantly. Conclusions: PA is considered the benchmark for effectively removing the SL from dentin affected by caries, as it also enhances bonding strength. Nonetheless, EDTA and DLs present viable alternatives to phosphoric acid.

Background: Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a well-established, noninvasive therapeutic modality supported by a robust scientific foundation and extensive case studies. Objectives: However, in recent years, researchers have reported that low-intensity light could also help slow down degenerative processes resulting from unbalanced or epigenetically exacerbated aging. Methods: We present data that support the use of PBM in addressing some of the primary degenerative diseases that significantly impact patients' quality of life. Results: Chronic diseases highlight the importance of emerging approaches utilizing low-power light sources, whether applied locally, systemically, or remotely. Conclusions: We conclude that PBM holds significant promise for patients suffering from chronic and debilitating conditions, offering potential therapeutic benefits. As the science of biophotonic continues to evolve, further advancements in light-based therapies are expected to enhance healing processes and improve the quality of life for patients worldwide. The growing body of evidence suggests that PBM is well-prepared to face the challenges imposed by degenerative diseases.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of 980 nm diode laser therapy as an adjunct to conventional treatment for acute pericoronitis. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study analyzed 108 patients with acute pericoronitis treated between June 2022 and June 2024. Participants were stratified into two groups: laser group (n = 69; 33 males, 36 females; mean age: 26.55 ± 6.05 years) and control group (n = 39; 20 males, 19 females; mean age: 26.08 ± 5.63 years). All patients initially underwent alternating irrigation with 0.9% NaCl and 3% H₂O₂ in pericoronal pockets, accompanied by oral hygiene instruction. The laser group was exposed to a 980-nm diode laser (Denlas-10BM; Wuhan Gigaa Optronics Technology Co. Ltd., China) irradiation at 1.5 W power with a 400-μm fiber tip, delivering 30-sec irradiation to the buccal, lingual, and occlusal aspects of inflamed pericoronal tissues, respectively, in combination with conventional therapy. The control group received conventional treatment alone (antibiotics, analgesics, and chlorhexidine). Clinical outcomes included maximum mouth opening (MMO), lymph node status, gingival inflammation area (GIA: Grade I-III), and pain levels assessed via visual analog scale (VAS; 0 = no pain to 10 = worst pain). Results: The laser group demonstrated significantly greater GIA improvement than controls (p < 0.05). Female patients in the control group exhibited smaller changes in GIA (p < 0.05). MMO improvement showed no intergroup difference (p > 0.05). VAS pain scores decreased from 5.49 ± 1.68 to 0.71 ± 1.59 in the laser group versus 5.54 ± 1.63 to 1.95 ± 2.37 in controls (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The 980 nm diode laser, as an adjunct to conventional therapy, provides significant benefits in treating acute pericoronitis, reducing inflammation, alleviating pain, and promoting faster recovery. This minimally invasive treatment shows promise as an effective option in dental practice.

Objective: Bone defects present a significant clinical challenge, often requiring surgical intervention due to delayed healing. Terahertz (THz) radiation, a noninvasive physical energy-based therapy, has shown potential in promoting bone regeneration through biomolecular interactions. This study aims to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of THz irradiation in enhancing bone repair using a pre-clinical rat tibial fracture defect model. Methods: A standardized tibial bone defect model was created in rats, with daily THz irradiation (0.1 THz, 20 min/session) administered continuously for 28 days. Micro-computed tomography (CT) evaluations were performed weekly throughout the study period, while histological assessments (hematoxylin and eosin [HE] and Masson staining), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) immunohistochemistry, and serum biomarker analyses were exclusively conducted at the 28-days endpoint. Micro-CT imaging, histopathological staining, and tyramide signal amplification analyses were conducted to assess bone volume fraction, collagen deposition, and angiogenesis. Blood biochemical markers were also evaluated to determine systemic metabolic effects. Results: By week 4, the THz-treated group demonstrated a higher new bone formation compared with control group. Micro-CT analysis revealed significantly improved cortical continuity and bone volume fraction at weeks 3 and 4 (p < 0.05). HE and Masson staining showed enhanced collagen alignment and trabecular organization. The IF test indicated increased VEGFA expression in local new bone (p < 0.01), suggesting augmented angiogenesis. No significant changes were observed in serum biochemistry markers, indicating localized rather than systemic effects. Conclusions: THz radiation effectively accelerates bone defect healing by enhancing osteoblast activity and vascularization without systemic metabolic alterations. These findings highlight the potential of THz therapy as a novel, noninvasive approach for bone regeneration, warranting further research for clinical translation.