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(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Effects of Low-Level Laser Therapy as a Therapeutic Strategy for Patients With Tinnitus: A Systematic Review

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Author(s):
Ferreira, Maria Carolina [1] ; de Matos, Izabella Lima [1] ; de Toledo, Isabela Porto [2] ; Honorio, Heitor Marques [3] ; Capoani Garcia Mondelli, Maria Fernanda [4]
Total Authors: 5
Affiliation:
[1] Univ Sao Paulo, Bauru Sch Dent, Speech Therapy Program, Sao Paulo - Brazil
[2] Univ Brasilia, Hlth Sci Fac, Brasilia, DF - Brazil
[3] Univ Sao Paulo, Bauru Sch Dent, Dept Pediat Dent Orthodont & Community Hlth, Sao Paulo - Brazil
[4] Univ Sao Paulo, Bauru Sch Dent, Speech Therapy Dept, Sao Paulo - Brazil
Total Affiliations: 4
Document type: Review article
Source: JOURNAL OF SPEECH LANGUAGE AND HEARING RESEARCH; v. 64, n. 1, p. 279-298, JAN 2021.
Web of Science Citations: 0
Abstract

Purpose: This systematic review aimed to analyze the effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on the severity of tinnitus when compared to no therapy or other modalities of therapies. Method: A systematic review protocol was registered at the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) under the Registration Number CRD42019119376. A search was performed in each of the following databases: EMBASE, LILACS, PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and ProQuest. The inclusion criteria consisted of studies in adults over 16 years of age, randomized clinical trials in which subjects presented chronic (>= 6 months) and subjective tinnitus (unilateral or bilateral) as well as with or without bilateral sensorineural hearing loss, and studies that used only LLLT for treatment of tinnitus compared to no-therapy group or other modalities of therapy. No language or time restrictions were stipulated. The references were managed by Endnote Web and Rayyan QCRI. Results: After the screening process, seven studies remained that attained the eligibility criteria. Regarding the risk of bias, only one study was categorized as low risk of bias; the six remaining studies were classified as moderate risk of bias. The seven included studies mainly assessed the LLLT effects on tinnitus by Visual Analogue Scale, Tinnitus Handicap Inventory, pitch and loudness matching, minimum masking level, and pure-tone audiometry. All the seven selected studies found different degrees of significant results regarding tinnitus severity; however, there was no consensus among the results. Conclusion: Even though the LLLT showed positive effects in the tinnitus severity in some studies, it is not possible yet to make any recommendation over its uses for the treatment of tinnitus severity. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 18/16349-6 - Auditory training in subjects with tinnitus
Grantee:Maria Carolina Ferreira
Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master