A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Effects of Low-Level Laser Therapy in the Treatment of Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Abstract

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are considered one of the most aggressive and expensive complications of diabetes. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has been highlighted as a potential modality of treatment to accelerate the healing of ulcers. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the efficacy of LLLT in the treatment of DFU and identify the LLLT application parameters recommended for the treatment of DFU over the past 10 years. A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, BVS, PEDro, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL up to March 31, 2019. Following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) guidelines, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that assessed the effect of LLLT on the treatment of DFU were included. Thirteen RCTs with a total of 361 participants were included in this review. Three RCTs reported a reduction in the percentage size of the ulcers and were included in the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis of the percentage size difference demonstrated a significant reduction in ulcer size in the LLLT group compared with controls (22.96 [95% confidence interval = 18.22-27.69; z = 9.51, P < .0001]). Treatment with 632.8 to 685 nm, 50 mW/cm2, 3 to 6 J/cm2, and irradiation for 30 to 80 seconds, 3 times weekly for a month is of benefit to patients with DFU. LLLT is effective and safe for the treatment of DFU. Additionally, well-designed, high-quality studies are needed to allow its ideal parameterization for clinical practice.