Low level red laser therapy using wavelength 635nm for diabetic foot ulcers: a prospective study

Abstract

Background: Diabetic foot ulcer is one of the important complications of diabetes. After effective debridement and antibiotic therapy, lasers are used to hasten the healing process. Red laser of wavelength 635nm promotes wound healing. This study will aid us to find out the efficacy of red laser wavelength 635nm in healing of diabetic foot ulcers.Methods: After obtaining informed consent, diabetic foot ulcer patients admitted to Rajiv Gandhi government hospital were selected based on non-probability convenience sampling. Necessary history obtained, clinical examination of the ulcer done, investigations done. Cases are given 30minutes of laser therapy by non-contact method before regular ulcer dressing. Controls are given saline dressing. Ulcer area measured before initiation of therapy and measured at 1st week, 2nd week and 3rd week after initiation of therapy.Results: Wound contraction rate was 39.65% with laser and 11.26% with saline dressing alone (p<0.001). The data were statistically significant; thus, laser have wound healing property.Conclusions: Cases have more mean contraction percentage than controls (37.99% versus 11.68%, p<0.001). So LLLT is an effective therapy to heal diabetic ulcers. Need for additional surgeries can be avoided by using LLLT.