Electrophotobiomodulation: A New Step in the Reconstructive Ladder of Post-Traumatic Defects

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

The Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University

Abstract

Background: Researchers have tried to improve their “reconstructive
ladders” by adding more steps for a larger applicability
that fits most of the situations, as more methods and
technology, such as free tissue transfer, robotic surgery and
vascularized composite allotransplant, have become accessible.
Electrophotobiomodulation was reported as a successful
tool in wound management with very narrow spectrum of
complications.
Objective: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of Electrophotobiomodulation
in reconstruction of post-traumatic defects
and its place in the reconstructive ladder.
Patients and Methods: Between May 2017 and January
2023, 38 patients underwent treatment with Electrophotobiomodulation,
including 17 on the face, 7 on the upper limb, 3
on the upper back, and 11 on the lower limb. Both throughout
sessions and at least six months after the patient’s final session,
photographs of the patient and a post-treatment wound
assessment were evaluated and also patient satisfaction with
the result was assessed.
Results: Regarding post-treatment clinical evaluation of
our patients, it was excellent to good in the majority of cases
(87%). Patient satisfaction rate was also excellent to good in
the majority of patients (84%). Minor issues were experienced
by small percent of patients (8%) including hyperpigmentation,
hypopigmentation, and hypertrophic scarring.
Conclusions: Electrophotobiomodulation is a safe effective
technique that can induce very good wound healing without
the need for any type of flap or skin graft, preserving other
tissues from mutilation and hence it deserves its place in the
reconstructive ladder.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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The Egyptian Journal of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Volume 48, Issue 1
January 2024
Pages 17-23

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