Low-level laser treatment applied at auriculotherapy points to reduce postoperative pain in third molar surgery: A randomized, controlled, single-blinded study

Author(s):Show less -

Sampaio-Filho, Helio ^[1] ; Bussadori, Sandra Kalil ^{[1, 2]} ; Leal Goncalves, Marcela Leticia ^[1] ; Teixeira da Silva, Daniela de Fatima ^[1] ; Borsatto, Maria Cristina ^[3] ; Tortamano, Isabel Peixoto ^[4] ; Longo, Priscila Larcher ^[5] ; Pavani, Christiane ^[1] ; Santos Fernandes, Kristianne Porta ^[1] ; Mesquita-Ferrari, Raquel Agnelli ^{[1, 2]} ; Ratto Tempestini Horliana, Anna Carolina ^[1]

Affiliation

^[1] Univ Nove Julho, UNINOVE, Postgrad Program Biophoton Appl Hlth Sci, Sao Paulo, SP - Brazil

^[2] Univ Nove Julho, UNINOVE, Postgrad Program Rehabil Sci, Sao Paulo, SP - Brazil

^[3] Univ Sao Paulo, Dept Odontopediat Clin, Ribeirao Preto, SP - Brazil

^[4] Univ Sao Paulo, Dept Estomatol, Sao Paulo, SP - Brazil

^[5] Univ Sao Paulo, Dept Microbiol, Sao Paulo, SP - Brazil

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: PLoS One; v. 13, n. 6 JUN 19 2018.
• Web of Science Citations: 1

Abstract

Objective Evaluate the effectiveness of LLL (Low level laser therapy) in auriculotherapy points for pain reduction following lower third molar extractions. Study design Randomized, controlled, single-blinded study. Methods Eighty-four bilateral, symmetrical third molar surgeries were performed in 42 healthy patients using a split-mouth design. In the immediate postoperative period, each side was randomly treated in a single-blind method with an LLL at the auriculotherapy points or simulation of its use (contralateral side) over a 21-day interval. This protocol was repeated 24 and 48 hours after surgery. All patients used the same analgesic (paracetamol) but only in case of pain. The primary variable was postoperative pain according to the visual analogue scale, and the secondary variables were mouth opening, edema, local temperature, dysphagia, and the presence of infection (systemic temperature, lymphadenopathy). These variables were evaluated at baseline and at 24 hours, 48 hours and seven days after surgery. Adverse effects were recorded and reported. Results There was no difference between the groups in relation to any of the evaluated parameters (p>0.05). Conclusion For this experimental model, application of a low-intensity laser at auriculotherapy points did not prevent postoperative pain following lower third molar surgery. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 15/20535-1 - Evaluation of periodontal treatment in bronchiectasic patients
• Grantee: Anna Carolina Ratto Tempestini Horliana
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants