EFFECT OF LOW-LEVEL LASER THERAPY ON PATIENTS WITH CLOSED REDUCTION OF CONDYLE FRACTURE ON PAIN AND MOUTH OPENING

Abstract

Background: Condyle fractures are common maxillofacial injuries that often result in pain and limited mouth opening. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has shown promise in managing pain and promoting tissue healing. This study investigates the effects of LLLT on patients with closed reduction of condyle fractures in terms of pain reduction and improved mouth opening.

Materials and Methods: A total of 20 patients were divided into two groups: Group A (n=10) received closed reduction alone, while Group B (n=10) received closed reduction combined with LLLT. Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores for pain were recorded preoperatively and on the 1st, 3rd, and 7th days postoperatively. LLLT was administered using a specific protocol, including wavelength, energy density, and duration. Statistical analysis was performed to compare the two groups. Student's t-test was utilized to compare VAS scores and mouth opening measurements between Group A and Group B at each time point. Statistical significance was defined as p < 0.05.

Results: In Group A, the mean VAS scores decreased gradually over the postoperative days: preoperative (7.2 ± 0.6), 1st day (5.8 ± 0.9), 3rd day (4.3 ± 0.7), and 7th day (2.1 ± 0.5). In Group B, patients experienced a more rapid reduction in pain: preoperative (7.4 ± 0.5), 1st day (3.2 ± 0.6), 3rd day (1.7 ± 0.4), and 7th day (0.8 ± 0.3). Group B showed significantly lower VAS scores than Group A at all time points (p < 0.05). Additionally, Group B exhibited greater mouth opening compared to Group A on the 1st, 3rd, and 7th postoperative days.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates that LLLT, when combined with closed reduction, significantly reduces postoperative pain and improves mouth opening in patients with condyle fractures. The more rapid pain reduction and enhanced mouth opening observed in the LLLT group suggest that LLLT can be a valuable adjunctive therapy in the management of these fractures. Further research is needed to optimize LLLT protocols and evaluate long-term outcomes.