Page 47 - Demo

Analgesic effects of preinjection low-level laser/light therapy453Low-level light/laser therapy (LLLT)LLLT was performed using a commercially available LX2 Control Unit with a single-laser dental probe (810 nm, 200 mW; THOR Photomedicine Ltd., Chesham, UK). LLLT instruments typically use lasers that emit wavelengths ranging from 600 nm (red) to 1000 nm (near-infrared; NIR). LLLT power densities range from 5 mW/cm2 to 5 W/cm2 as the instruments can deliver as little as 1 mW and up to 10 W. Treatment time is generally in the range of 30-60 s per target point. LLLT produces no heat and does not damage any tissue. The delivered light energy is believed to provoke a reaction mechanism comparable to photosynthesis. All intraoral preinjection sites were irradiated twice, with 30 s intervals, for 30 s with 198 mW continuous wave with a 0.088 cm2 focal spot at an applied energy of 5.94 J and a fluence of 67.50 J/cm2.Experimental proceduresAll third molar surgeries were performed by two experienced OMFS (JT and JL). Before the initiation of experimental procedures, all patients completed the first two parts of the questionnaire in the waiting room. The three fingers required for sensor attachment were cleaned and disinfected with 70% alcohol and dried. Then, the BVP and SC/GSR sensors were connected for data acquisition. After the patients were coupled to the NeXus-10, the OMFS pointed to the precise points of needle insertion. A surgical marker was used to make a mark just lateral to the injection insertion sites, such that the purple ink would not affect the LLLT path of irradiation. One study investigator (always the same person, ZK) observed the surgeon as he pointed out the injection insertion sites. After indicating the injection insertion points, the OMFS left the treatment room, such that the surgeon was blinded to the LLLT randomization of each patient. A computer model randomly assigned patients to receive LLLT or placebo (no LLLT). A second investigator (again, always the same person, IM) administered LLLT pretreatment to the patients in the LLLT group.To ensure that patients were blinded to their LLLT group assignment, all patients were fitted with protective eyewear. For each maxillary or mandibular region targeted by LLLT, two sites were irradiated. For maxillary third molar extractions, the first irradiated site targeted the posterior superior alveolar nerve, treating the first injection insertion site on the mucosa, at the mucobuccal fold just superior to the maxillary second molar. The second irradiated site targeted the