Effects of phototherapy in the treatment of pressure Injuries in older adults: a literature review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62827/fb.v25i6.1041Keywords:
Aged; pressure ulcer; phototherapy; laser therapy; wound healing.Abstract
Introduction: Older adults represent one of the most vulnerable groups to developing pressure injuries (PIs). Skin aging is associated with a slower healing process. Phototherapy has shown potential to aid in PI healing. However, gaps remain regarding its effects on older adults, the definition of optimal parameters, dosimetry, and the injury stages in which the therapy is most effective. Objective: To review the literature on the effects of phototherapy in the treatment of pressure ulcers (PU) in elderly patients and identify the most effective parameters, dosimetry, and stages of PU. Methods: A literature review with a qualitative approach, using the PubMed, SciELO, and PEDro databases. Results: A total of 117 articles were identified. After screening and eligibility assessment, three randomized clinical trials were included. The samples consisted of elderly individuals (≥65 years) with PUs at stages II and/or III. All studies used pulsed monochromatic light at 956nm and 637nm, with irradiances of 55 W/m² and 21 W/m², respectively. The protocols were similar, applying phototherapy five days a week in the first week, with a progressive reduction in frequency in the following weeks. The studies showed that phototherapy accelerated the healing of stage II PUs. The methodological quality was low. Conclusion: Pulsed monochromatic light phototherapy, using 956nm and 637nm, showed promising results in the healing of stage II PUs in elderly patients, but did not present the same effects in stage III lesions. Nonetheless, further studies with more rigorous methodologies are needed to draw more precise conclusions.
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