Laser therapy

Overview of Treatment

Laser therapy is a medical technique that uses high-energy light beams to act on human tissues, primarily aimed at promoting tissue repair, alleviating pain, or improving skin conditions. Depending on the wavelength and energy intensity, it can be divided into low-energy laser therapy (Laser Therapy) and high-energy surgical treatments. This technology is characterized by its non-invasiveness and high precision, and is commonly used in physical therapy, dermatology, and surgical assistance.

The core principle involves the interaction between laser photons and cells, which can stimulate cellular metabolism, promote angiogenesis, and regulate inflammatory responses. Compared to traditional medications or surgery, this treatment reduces tissue damage and shortens recovery time, making it an increasingly important option in modern medicine.

Types and Mechanisms of Treatment

Laser treatments are mainly divided into two categories: "Therapeutic Lasers" and "Surgical Lasers":

• Low-energy Laser (Laser Therapy): Uses wavelengths between 500-1064nm to promote cell repair through non-thermal effects, commonly used for anti-inflammatory and pain relief.
• High-energy Lasers (such as CO2, YAG lasers): Use high energy to destroy or vaporize tissue, suitable for surgical cutting, skin remodeling, or removal of abnormal tissue.

The mechanisms include:

• Photobiomodulation: Photons stimulate ATP synthesis, enhancing cellular energy metabolism.
• Vasodilation and improved blood circulation: Promotes local blood and lymphatic flow, accelerating tissue repair.
• Nerve modulation: Reduces nerve conduction pain signals, achieving analgesic effects.

Indications

Laser therapy is suitable for various medical and cosmetic needs, including:

• Chronic pain management: such as arthritis, neck and shoulder pain, or fibromyalgia.
• Wound healing: burns, diabetic foot ulcers, or post-surgical wounds.
• Skin issues: acne scars, sunspots, vascular dilation, or hair removal.
• Ophthalmic treatments: YAG laser treatment for posterior capsule opacification after cataract surgery.

Additionally, it is commonly used in ENT (e.g., vocal cord nodules treatment), dentistry (periodontal disease treatment), and aesthetic medicine (skin regeneration). Selection of appropriate laser wavelength and energy parameters depends on the depth and nature of the lesion.

Application Methods and Dosage

The treatment methods vary depending on the type of therapy:

• Low-energy therapy: Usually involves contact with the skin using a probe, with each session lasting about 5-20 minutes, requiring 3-10 sessions per course, spaced 2-3 days apart.
• Surgical laser: Performed in a sterile environment, directly targeting the tissue by the physician, with energy parameters precisely controlled by the device.

Dosage settings should consider tissue type and patient constitution, for example:

• Skin treatment: Energy density typically ranges from 0.5-5 J/cm².
• Deep tissue treatment: May require more penetrative near-infrared light (980nm).

Benefits and Advantages

Main advantages include:

• Non-invasive: Most treatments do not require incisions, reducing infection risk.
• High precision: Can target specific tissue layers, minimizing damage to surrounding tissues.
• Rapid recovery: Usually no downtime after a single treatment.

Long-term benefits include reducing reliance on pain medications and enhancing the body's natural repair capacity. In dermatology, it can also improve skin quality and promote collagen production, achieving a combined aesthetic effect.

Risks and Side Effects

Possible short-term side effects include:

• Transient redness or a burning sensation (resolving within 1-3 days).
• Increased skin sensitivity, possibly to sunlight.

Serious risks include:

• High-energy treatments may cause tissue charring or vascular injury.
• Risk of eye damage: protective goggles must be worn during treatment.
• Deep tissue treatments may cause temporary nerve paralysis.

Precautions and Contraindications

Before treatment, attention should be paid to:

• Inform the physician of all existing conditions, especially bleeding disorders or autoimmune diseases.
• Any sunburn, infection, or open wounds at the treatment site must be addressed beforehand.

Contraindications include:

• Pregnant women (especially for treatments involving the abdomen or pelvis).
• Patients with electronic pacemakers should avoid high-energy treatments.
• Direct irradiation within 3cm of skin cancer lesions is prohibited.

Interactions with Other Treatments

Regarding drug interactions:

• Oral anticoagulants may increase bleeding risk; treatment parameters should be adjusted accordingly.
• When combined with chemotherapy drugs, tissue tolerance should be evaluated.

Differences from surgical treatments include:

• Laser therapy can serve as an adjunct to wound healing after surgery.
• In some cases, it can replace traditional electrocautery or excision, reducing tissue damage.

Effectiveness and Evidence

Clinical studies show:

• Low-energy laser therapy achieves a 60-80% relief rate in chronic pain.
• Treatment of diabetic foot ulcers can shorten healing time by up to 40%.

Long-term follow-up indicates:

• Skin regeneration treatments maintain pigmentation uniformity for 12-18 months.
• Arthritis patients show an average improvement in joint mobility of 25-35% after treatment.

Alternative Options

Depending on the condition, alternative therapies include:

• Chronic pain: consider electrical stimulation, ultrasound therapy, or medication.
• Skin issues: options include microneedling, chemical peels, or oral medications.

Alternative surgical options include:

• Traditional electrocautery excision as a substitute for some laser procedures.
• Medications (such as antibiotics) to treat infectious wounds, though healing may be slower.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What preparations are needed before undergoing laser treatment?

Prior to treatment, a skin examination should be performed to assess skin condition and sensitivity. It is recommended to avoid using irritating cosmetics or ointments 24 hours before treatment, and inform the physician if you have a history of photosensitivity or are taking medications (such as tetracycline antibiotics). Additionally, the skin surface should be cleaned, and all metal jewelry removed to ensure safety during treatment.

How should skin reactions after treatment be handled?

Post-treatment may include mild redness or swelling, which usually subsides within 24-48 hours. If blisters or significant pain occur, avoid squeezing and follow medical advice for cold compresses or low-dose steroid ointments. If symptoms persist beyond 72 hours or are accompanied by fever, a follow-up consultation is necessary.

What daily care should be taken during the treatment period?

Within 72 hours after treatment, avoid sun exposure, use SPF30 or higher sunscreen, and wear a hat. Use fragrance-free, low-irritation skincare products, and avoid applying makeup directly on the treated area. If exercising, choose indoor environments and keep the treatment area dry.

How are treatment sessions scheduled, and what is the interval?

The number of sessions depends on the treatment goal. For example, acne scars may require 3-6 sessions, spaced 4-6 weeks apart to allow tissue repair. Sensitive skin or superficial treatments may have intervals extended to 6-8 weeks. The physician will adjust subsequent plans based on skin recovery, and patients should attend regular follow-ups to evaluate effectiveness.

When can noticeable results be seen, and how long do they last?

Most patients notice improvements after 3-4 sessions, such as fading pigmentation or reduced wrinkles, with more stable results after completing the full course. The duration of skin collagen regeneration varies with individual skincare, generally lasting 1-3 years. Continued sun protection and skincare can prolong treatment effects.