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Innovative, non-invasive and painless, photobiomodulation is also called low energy laser/LED therapy. It is used by dentists, dermatologists or physiotherapists, but above all has an application in oncology, where it can prevent or even treat certain side effects of treatments.
In oncology, the adverse effects generated by treatments – chemo and radiotherapy – can handicap the quality of life of patients. The photobiomodulation technique, also called low energy laser/led therapy, seems to represent a solution in certain situations.
What is photobiomodulation?
Photobiomodulation is a laser therapy. “It is a non-invasive method, with no side effects identified so far, with proven clinical results in indications that have no other therapeutic alternatives” defines Dr. Camelia Billard-Sandu, medical oncologist at Gustave Roussy. The establishment, convinced by this technique, has also announced that it has equipped itself with a fourth photobiomodulation device.
Photobiomodulation involves exposing cells or tissues to light of specific wavelengths to stimulate their activity. The wavelengths of light used, red or near infrared, are absorbed by the mitochondria of the cells.
This has the effect of producing cellular energy and stimulating their activity. It is therefore a technicalinnovative, non-invasive and painless“, which would present properties at once”analgesic, anti-inflammatory and healing“according to the press release of the Institute.
What are the applications in oncology?
According to Dr. Billard-Sandu, “in oncology, photobiomodulation is used to help heal damaged tissue, improve the immune response, reduce inflammation and thus prevent or treat certain side effects of conventional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Several international learned societies (MASCC /ISOO or ESMO) recommend this technique in the prevention of mucositis (inflammation of the oral mucosa) radio or chemo-induced in onco-haematology”.
Photobiomodulation could also be used in the management of other side effects such as:
- Radiodermatitis, which are skin burns induced by radiotherapy;
- Peripheral neuropathies induced by certain chemotherapies, with tingling, tingling or loss of sensitivity);
- Cutaneous fibrosis, with cardboard effect of the skin after radiotherapy;
- Lymphedema, which is tissue swelling;
- Mouth dryness;
- Trismus, a constant and involuntary contraction of the jaw muscles.
These potential indications are currently the subject of clinical research.
Make this technique better known
“The ease of use of photobiomodulation devices, the very interesting clinical results of this technique in many indications will make it possible to disseminate photobiomodulation in oncological support care” adds Camelia Billard-Sandu who is also responsible for the University Diploma in Photobiomodulation in oncological support care created at the University of Paris-Saclay in 2020.
Moreover, for medical and paramedical personnel who would like to know more, the School of Cancer Sciences will organize a seminar on photobiomodulation next June.