Efficacy of Laser Therapy on Paralysis and Disability in Patients with Facial Palsy: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

Abstract

(1) Background: Facial palsy is a common health issue which leads to sequelae and disability. This systematic review aimed to assess the efficacy of laser therapy for the treatment of facial palsy. (2) Methods: Only randomized controlled trials comparing the effectiveness of laser therapy to non-laser intervention, no intervention, or placebo were searched for. Relevant studies were searched in seven electronic databases. Studies that examined the use of laser modalities for facial palsy management, with or without acupuncture, were also included. Two authors independently read and scored the methodological quality of the selected texts, and any disagreement was resolved by discussion or by intervention from the third author. (3) Results and conclusions: With five full-text articles, a methodological quality for each included study was assessed (kappa coefficient = 0.75). The laser therapy group in the mean difference measuring FDI showed an effect size of 8.15 compared to the control group; while measuring the paralysis score, an advantage was disclosed with an effect size of 0.22 compared to the control group.