How has photobiomodulation been studied in skin wounds?
229 papers. Randomized human trials: 44. Controlled human studies, including unspecified allocation: 32. Human studies without a control group: 60. Systematic reviews and meta analyses including human studies: 32. Animal studies, including accompanying cell experiments: 48. Cell and ex vivo studies: 13.
All MED and PMC title and abstract query results through 29 October 2026 were collected to the final cursor page and every available abstract was read. Human studies have no lower year limit; animal, cell and ex vivo studies require a first publication date in 2024 or later. Skin wounds, burns, scars, skin flaps and grafts are included; oral, dental, bone and isolated tendon injuries are excluded. Combined interventions and systematic reviews including human studies are identified. Groups are ordered by first publication date, newest first. Paper counts do not represent unique participants. This is not an inventory of all databases.
Checked 2026-10-29 · 1293 records searched
Randomized human trials44
40 patients with neuropathic foot ulcers were randomized equally to hyperbaric oxygen plus polarized light or standard care, assessing ulcer volume, transcutaneous oxygen and neuropathy questionnaires at baseline, 2 and 4 weeks.
Am J Phys Med Rehabil · 2026 · PMID 42405939
104 women after cesarean section were randomized to control or infrared laser groups of 52; exposure at 5 J/cm² was delivered 12 to 24 hours and 48 hours postpartum, assessing pain and scar scales.
Lasers Med Sci · 2026 · PMID 42342919
59 postpartum women with perineal lacerations or episiotomy were randomized to 660 nm exposure in 30 or placebo in 29, assessing pain, REEDA wound scores and analgesic use with follow up 7 to 15 days postpartum.
Int Urogynecol J · 2026 · PMID 42307744
60 rhinoplasty patients were randomized to control or 660 nm LED exposure 3 times daily for 10 minutes per session over 14 days, assessing bruising, swelling and wound course.
J Lasers Med Sci · 2025 · PMID 41789286
40 children aged 5 to 16 receiving skin grafts for third degree burns were randomized to active or placebo laser, 20 per group, alongside standard wound care 3 times weekly for 3 weeks; donor site area was measured on postoperative days 1, 11 and 21.
J Lasers Med Sci · 2025 · PMID 41789287
A randomized double blinded trial in diabetic foot ulcers compared 3 doses of 660 nm light with 904 nm exposure alongside conventional dressings, twice weekly for 10 weeks, assessing ulcer area. Participant count is not reported in the abstract.
Lasers Med Sci · 2025 · PMID 41028567
24 patients with second degree burns were randomized to 904 nm or sham exposure, 12 per group, alongside standard care twice weekly; epithelialization time, wound area, pain, blood markers and microbial load were measured.
J Biophotonics · 2026 · PMID 40992752
11 patients with peripheral artery disease and diabetic foot ulcers were randomized to photobiomodulation plus resistance exercise or exercise alone for 4 weeks, assessing wound size, skin temperature and 6 minute walking distance.
Life (Basel) · 2025 · PMID 41010333
90 patients after appendectomy were randomized equally to microcurrent, low level laser or sham laser alongside shared physical and medical care; MMP8, MMP9 and TIMP1 were assessed before and after 12 sessions.
Sci Rep · 2025 · PMID 40796926
Hospitalized patients with stage 2 or 3 pressure ulcers were randomized to standard care or additional blue light 3 times weekly for 4 weeks, comparing PUSH wound scores between first and last visits. Participant count is not reported in the abstract.
J Tissue Viability · 2025 · PMID 40158347
Show all · 44 papersShow less
Twenty patients with chronic wounds were randomized to standard care with or without near infrared laser exposure three times weekly for four weeks. A separate human skin experiment compared laser, LED and control conditions with three samples each and assays of 107 genes.
Aesthet Surg J Open Forum · 2025 · PMID 40201332
145 patients after incisional blepharoplasty were randomized to 830 nm LED care in 73 or traditional care in 72, comparing swelling, pain, wound grades and anxiety scales.
Aesthetic Plast Surg · 2025 · PMID 39443322
Patients with grade 1 or 2 diabetic foot ulcers were randomized to red LED, infrared LED, combined exposure or control, with daily home use for 12 weeks and assessments of area, temperature, sensation and pain every 30 days. Participant count is not reported in the abstract.
Lasers Med Sci · 2024 · PMID 39382587
Eighty adults with noninfected diabetic foot ulcers were randomized to 904 nm irradiation at 4, 8 or 10 J/cm² or placebo. Up to 20 sessions accompanied dressings, with ulcer area followed for up to 10 weeks.
Lasers Med Sci · 2024 · PMID 38805069
60 patients with diabetic foot ulcers were randomized equally to visible and infrared laser plus care or conventional care, with 20 sessions of 30 minutes at 3 sessions weekly, assessing ulcer area and Wagner grade.
J Lasers Med Sci · 2024 · PMID 39050995
Thirty patients with grade II diabetic foot ulcers were randomized to 904 nm irradiation or placebo, with 15 per group. Eleven sessions at 2 J/cm² were delivered over four weeks. HIF1α, VEGF, NO, sVEGFR2 and wound area were measured.
Photobiomodul Photomed Laser Surg · 2024 · PMID 38536106
Twenty five healthy volunteers underwent randomized within person comparison of bilateral arm sites after ablative fractional resurfacing. One side received 465, 640 and 880 nm LEDs for 30 minutes three times weekly for four weeks. Photography, pain, discomfort and itching were assessed through day 55.
Lasers Med Sci · 2024 · PMID 38532146
An economic analysis of a randomized trial compared PBM in 13 adults and simulated irradiation in 14 adults with tibial fractures and associated soft tissue wounds. BATES JENSEN scores, wound course in days and hospital costs were assessed.
PLoS One · 2023 · PMID 38064443
240 women after cesarean section were randomized equally to 810 nm laser or control, recording pain, analgesic use, suture removal timing and postoperative course through 6 weeks.
Maedica (Bucur) · 2023 · PMID 38023759
Twenty seven hospitalized adults with tibial or ankle fractures and soft tissue injuries were randomized to multiwavelength PBM or control. Daily BATES JENSEN wound scores, pain, pin site infections and the course before surgery were assessed.
J Biophotonics · 2023 · PMID 36640122
Ten healthy adults underwent randomized within person comparison of seven forearm areas after fractional laser ablation. Two irradiances each of 590, 630 and 850 nm LEDs and placebo were applied on three consecutive days. Erythema, transepidermal water loss and photography were assessed through day 21.
Lasers Surg Med · 2022 · PMID 34529859
Twenty patients with comorbidities and osteomyelitis associated diabetic foot ulcers were randomized to home 808 nm irradiation or sham, ten per group. Daily exposure at 8.8 J/cm² continued for up to 12 weeks, with wound size and adverse events recorded.
Lasers Med Sci · 2022 · PMID 34052927
Forty three patients with stage III or IV pressure ulcers were randomized to dressings plus 20 laser exposures or dressings alone. Infrared thermography and wound course were assessed at baseline and weeks 2 and 4.
J Wound Care · 2020 · PMID 33320753
After ablative CO2 laser resurfacing, 17 participants underwent a randomized split face comparison and 19 additional participants served as controls. Erythema and transepidermal water loss were assessed over seven days following 830/590 nm LED exposure.
Lasers Med Sci · 2019 · PMID 30074109
Fifteen children aged 2 to 10 with hypertrophic burn scars underwent randomized comparison of scar halves receiving HeNe laser plus topical care or topical care alone. Scar scales, ultrasound and Doppler perfusion were assessed before and after three months.
Lasers Med Sci · 2018 · PMID 29974280
Eighteen adults aged 30 to 59 with chronic diabetic foot wounds were randomized to two groups. The protocol used 660 nm exposure every 48 hours for four weeks, with image based wound area, PUSH scale and pain measurements.
Photomed Laser Surg · 2018 · PMID 29882738
Nine skin graft patients with similar bilateral third degree burns on hands or feet had one side randomly assigned to irradiation. The wound bed received 655 nm at 2 J/cm² and the margins 808 nm daily for seven days. Wound dehiscence was assessed.
J Lasers Med Sci · 2018 · PMID 30026900
Eighteen donor sites in 11 skin graft patients with third degree burns were randomly divided into irradiation and control areas. A 655 nm laser at 2 J/cm² was applied on the operative day and days 3, 5 and 7, with donor wound area measured.
Lasers Med Sci · 2018 · PMID 29368069
Fifteen children aged 2 to 10 with burn scars underwent randomized comparison of scar halves receiving diode laser plus topical care or topical care alone. Scar scales, ultrasound and Doppler perfusion were assessed before and after three months.
Lasers Med Sci · 2018 · PMID 29177979
Thirty nine diabetic and 40 nondiabetic patients with chronic lower limb wounds were randomized to 625, 660 and 850 nm LED or broadband light. Microcirculation and wound bed scores were measured during eight weeks of three weekly sessions.
Lasers Med Sci · 2017 · PMID 28342007
Twenty four patients with venous leg ulcers were randomized to 635 nm irradiation (13) or placebo (11), with 24 sessions over 12 weeks and measurements of wound closure, ulcer area and pain.
Int J Low Extrem Wounds · 2017 · PMID 28682676
Thirty patients with type 2 diabetes and foot ulcers were randomized equally to 660 nm low level laser plus conventional care or conventional care alone. Wound area was measured at baseline and two weeks.
Lasers Med Sci · 2017 · PMID 27896528
Eighty five patients undergoing open bariatric surgery were randomized to laser exposure, 43 patients, or placebo, 42 patients. Ten scar points received three sessions, with wound temperature, pain, blood markers and digital photographs assessed.
Photomed Laser Surg · 2016 · PMID 27841968
Ninety patients after coronary bypass surgery were randomized equally to control, placebo or 660 nm exposure. Sessions occurred on postoperative days 2, 4, 6 and 8, with sternotomy photographs used to assess hyperemia and wound closure.
Lasers Med Sci · 2016 · PMID 27649961
One hundred twenty coronary bypass patients were randomized to control, placebo, laser or LED groups of 30. Exposure occurred on postoperative days 2 to 8. Day 8 sternotomy photographs were assessed for hyperemia, bleeding and dehiscence, with analysis by preoperative glucose status.
Photomed Laser Surg · 2017 · PMID 27564925
Sixty eight patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic foot ulcers were randomized equally to low level laser plus conventional care or conventional care alone, with ulcer area recorded over 15 days.
Indian J Surg · 2012 · PMID 24082586
Twenty three patients with diabetic foot wounds present for at least three months were randomized to 685 nm exposure (13) or placebo (10). Ulcer size and wound closure were followed for 20 weeks alongside conventional care.
Photomed Laser Surg · 2011 · PMID 21214368
Fifty one patients with ulcers related to leprosy sequelae were assessed, and 25 were randomized to low level laser or control. Ulcer area, depth and PUSH scores were measured during a 12 week protocol with three weekly sessions.
BMC Infect Dis · 2010 · PMID 20698989
A trial randomized 138 burn patients equally to systemic red light plus routine care or routine care alone. Daily 30 minute sessions were accompanied by wound assessments, time to closure and pain measurements.
Zhongguo Yi Liao Qi Xie Za Zhi · 2010 · PMID 21033120
Twenty women scheduled for cesarean section were randomized in a study combining 980/650 nm exposure along the incision and intravenous 650 nm exposure over three postoperative days. Blood prolactin and wound margin tissue samples on day 10 were assessed.
Photomed Laser Surg · 2009 · PMID 19405857
A randomized double blind study assigned 44 patients with venous leg ulcers to 685 nm exposure, placebo exposure or standardized care, with ulcer area measured on days 1, 28 and 90.
Hautarzt · 2005 · PMID 15580451
A randomized triple blind study created two superficial forearm abrasions in each of 22 healthy adults and compared laser with sham exposure. Photographs measured wound area, color and luminance through day 20.
J Athl Train · 2004 · PMID 15496990
Eighty six patients with stage III pressure ulcers were randomized to standard care (47) or additional low level laser (39). A six week protocol with five weekly sessions recorded wound size, progression to stage IV and Norton scores.
Lasers Med Sci · 2003 · PMID 12928815
A randomized study of 74 patients after surgery for sports or traffic injuries compared 830 nm point exposure and 632.8/904 nm scanning exposure with controls, recording redness, heat, pain, swelling and function.
J Clin Laser Med Surg · 2000 · PMID 11800105
Controlled human studies, including unspecified allocation32
A retrospective cohort of 84 children with burns compared 50 historical standard care controls with 34 receiving additional blue light, recording inflammation, epithelialization time, scar scores at about 3 months, dressing changes, grafting and adverse events.
Eur Burn J · 2026 · PMID 42924818
31 women undergoing abdominoplasty entered a nonrandomized comparison of one 808 nm session in 15 and control in 16, assessing salivary inflammatory and oxidative markers and pain before surgery, at 48 hours and at 7 days.
Lasers Med Sci · 2026 · PMID 42631884
11 adults with diabetic foot ulcers entered a nonrandomized comparison of conventional care in 5 and additional laser in 6, recording area, tissue type and exudate in 15 ulcers using the PUSH scale.
Lasers Med Sci · 2026 · PMID 42533202
65 patients with severe burns were compared using prospective data from 35 receiving additional multiwavelength laser and retrospective data from 30 receiving standard care, assessing epithelialization, area, pain, itching, scars and function.
Life (Basel) · 2026 · PMID 42073421
A retrospective cohort of 264 cardiac surgery patients compared 80 receiving photobiomodulation on the day of surgery with 184 controls, recording acute pain, analgesic use and wound assessments.
Pain Res Manag · 2026 · PMID 42669041
25 adults with diabetes and lower limb wounds entered a nonrandomized comparison of weekly laser plus daily hydrogel versus hydrogel for 12 weeks, assessing wound area and cytokine gene expression.
Wounds · 2025 · PMID 42013218
9 hospitalized patients with second degree burns received 3 to 5 sessions of 660 and 840 nm LEDs on part of each burn, compared with usual care areas in a double blinded study measuring epithelialization time. Randomization is not reported in the abstract.
Photobiomodul Photomed Laser Surg · 2025 · PMID 39724004
110 patients with skin incisions were compared in neodymium laser and conventional topical care groups of 55, with exposure from immediately after surgery through 35 days and scar scoring by patients and 4 physicians. Randomization is not reported in the abstract.
Khirurgiia (Mosk) · 2024 · PMID 38634590
Sixty two glucocorticoid dependent patients with second degree lower limb burns entered control care, 25 patients, or 630 to 650 nm exposure, 37 patients, according to sequence and preference. Twenty minute irradiation preceded dressing, with wound measures, secretions, margins, pain and itching recorded for up to 21 days.
Lasers Med Sci · 2023 · PMID 37582898
A clinical comparison of 658 and 660 nm laser versus conventional care for cesarean wounds describes 40 participants in the laser group, with total sample size unclear in the abstract; pain and REEDA scores were assessed on days 3, 7 and 10.
Lasers Med Sci · 2023 · PMID 37526765
Show all · 32 papersShow less
A retrospective study examined weekly blue light exposure over two months in 12 systemic sclerosis patients with 15 finger ulcers. Eight control patients were also evaluated, with ulcer area, length, width, wound bed and pain assessed at weeks 4 and 8.
Rheumatol Ther · 2022 · PMID 35334095
Forty children with deep burns eligible for skin grafting entered 650 nm irradiation or skin graft groups, with 39 completing the study. Irradiation was given on alternate days, with burn area and scars assessed at 1, 3 and 6 months.
Photobiomodul Photomed Laser Surg · 2022 · PMID 34981954
25 skin graft donor sites in 21 patients were compared with conventional dressing in 13 and added 660 nm LED in 12, applied immediately and on days 1, 3, 5 and 7, assessing epithelialization, area, wound scores and pain.
Lasers Med Sci · 2022 · PMID 34713365
Ninety patients with chronic lower limb ulcers underwent within person comparison of standard care alone and standard care plus 410 to 430 nm blue light. Wound area, reepithelialization, pain and adverse events were recorded over ten weeks.
Ital J Dermatol Venerol · 2022 · PMID 34498454
A prospective study compared hydrogel care, human amniotic membrane and low level laser in 27 patients with type 2 diabetic foot ulcers, nine per group. Wound area, PUSH scores and pain were recorded weekly over 28 days.
Wound Manag Prev · 2021 · PMID 34370677
Seventeen women after abdominoplasty underwent nonrandomized comparison of scar sides. The right side received ten PBM sessions with three wavelengths. Photographs, Vancouver scores and patient and observer scar scales were assessed at 1, 6 and 12 months.
Aesthetic Plast Surg · 2019 · PMID 30483937
Six patients with stage II or III pressure ulcers received low level laser exposure and were compared with 12 reference participants without ulcers. Wound organisms, antimicrobial susceptibility and serum LL37 were measured before and after two weeks.
Postepy Dermatol Alergol · 2018 · PMID 30618525
Five patients with skin burns received 658 nm LED exposure on alternate days, with skin biopsies and photographs. Contralateral burns received placebo irradiation in patients with bilateral burns.
Lasers Med Sci · 2018 · PMID 29199384
Ten patients with pemphigus vulgaris underwent comparison of lesion sides receiving 660 nm LEDs and routine care. Photographs and qualitative wound scores were recorded at each irradiation session.
J Lasers Med Sci · 2017 · PMID 29071023
Forty five patients with diabetic foot ulcers and 11 healthy controls underwent near infrared spectroscopy before and after low level light exposure to measure total hemoglobin concentration and frequency components.
J Biomed Opt · 2017 · PMID 28265648
Patients after appendectomy received low level laser or pulsed electromagnetic field application to the incision twice daily for six days. Peripheral lymphocyte ERK, p38 and JNK expression was measured by flow cytometry; the abstract does not report participant numbers.
Biochem Biophys Rep · 2017 · PMID 28956019
Thirty five patients receiving 830/590 nm LED exposure along thyroidectomy suture lines were compared with 15 unexposed controls. Exposure continued for four weeks, with colorimetry and scar scales at one and three months.
Dermatol Surg · 2016 · PMID 26981718
Sixteen patients with type 2 diabetes and lower limb ulcers were compared in 632.8 nm irradiation and control groups of eight. Exposure at 4 J/cm² was given three times weekly for 12 sessions. Photographs, wound size and pain were assessed before and after 30 days.
Acta Cir Bras · 2015 · PMID 26735058
A prospective study of 305 patients with venous leg ulcers at three Polish centers compared 810 nm laser, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, compression and standard care in surgical and nonsurgical groups. Wound area and volume were measured over seven weeks.
Wounds · 2012 · PMID 25874609
One hundred six patients with venous leg ulcers were assigned across five modalities, including 21 receiving one low level laser session. Infrared thermography measured wound temperature before exposure and 5, 10, 15 and 30 minutes afterward.
Wounds · 2012 · PMID 25874356
A retrospective review of 80 patients with deep wounds over the Achilles tendon identified 13 receiving topical oxygen, low level laser and dressings. Fifty two patients managed elsewhere were contacted by telephone about wound status.
Ostomy Wound Manage · 2011 · PMID 21512191
A pilot study applied 685 nm exposure along incisions in 13 neonates immediately after myelomeningocele surgery and compared wound dehiscence with records from 23 patients without exposure.
Pediatr Neurosurg · 2010 · PMID 21160232
Three patients aged 27 to 57 with hypertrophic scars or keloids used 805 nm LED daily for 30 days on one side after scar revision. The opposite side served as control, with scar scales, photographs and profilometry assessed for up to one year.
Lasers Surg Med · 2010 · PMID 20662038
Thirteen neonates undergoing myelomeningocele surgery at birth received 685 nm low level laser exposure along the incision. Wound dehiscence was compared with historical records from 23 patients without exposure.
Einstein (Sao Paulo) · 2010 · PMID 26761745
Forty four patients with venous leg ulcers were assigned to laser, placebo or standard care alongside dressings and compression, with ulcer area measured on days 1, 28 and 90. Randomization is not stated in the abstract.
J Wound Care · 2005 · PMID 16178295
Nineteen patients with burn scars received 670 nm laser exposure twice weekly for eight weeks, with an unexposed area in each patient as control. Scar scales, itch, pain and photographs were recorded.
Burns · 2004 · PMID 15145195
Among 58 cases undergoing orthotopic transplantation of avulsed skin flaps, 31 received intravascular HeNe laser alongside routine care and 27 served as controls. Flap area and hemorheological measures were assessed.
Zhongguo Xiu Fu Chong Jian Wai Ke Za Zhi · 2000 · PMID 12024594
Human studies without a control group60
A phase 1 dose exploration in 22 patients with chronic wounds applied 405 nm blue light at 20, 60 or 100 J/cm² 3 times weekly for 2 weeks, recording skin reactions, adverse events, pain, wounds and surface temperature.
Photodiagnosis Photodyn Ther · 2026 · PMID 42727840
A case series of 2 patients with leg ulcers and 2 with radiation related fibrosis and ulceration receiving photobiomodulation alongside existing care, initially twice weekly, with wound area, pain and quality of life follow up.
Br J Nurs · 2026 · PMID 42560105
Two men with rhinophyma received postoperative LED photobiomodulation, dressings and topical agents after surgery, documenting nasal skin, appearance and quality of life over follow up.
Cureus · 2026 · PMID 42577983
A case report of one 15 day old neonate with upper limb soft tissue necrosis receiving surgery, anticoagulation, local stem cell injections and daily photobiomodulation, recording wound depth, vascular appearance and course.
Curr Res Transl Med · 2026 · PMID 42398474
A clinical study applied 660 nm light to wound sites and measured skin stiffness with optical coherence tomography and air jet indentation, using an image segmentation model. Participant count is not reported in the abstract.
J Biophotonics · 2026 · PMID 42252133
20 patients with 33 chronic wounds received 808 nm light; temperature in 22 diabetic foot and 11 venous ulcers was recorded before exposure and every 5 minutes for 30 minutes afterward.
Lasers Med Sci · 2026 · PMID 42053845
Acute outpatient burn wounds received cleansing followed by 2 minutes of noncontact photobiomodulation; colony counts were compared in 96 paired swab sets before and after exposure. Patient count is not reported in the abstract.
Lasers Surg Med · 2026 · PMID 41486500
One 90 year old woman with stage 4 ischial pressure ulcers received aloe dressing, red light and nutritional support under telemedicine guidance, recording wound size, PUSH scores and adverse events over 8.5 months.
World J Clin Cases · 2026 · PMID 41608598
27 patients after abdominoplasty received fluorescent photobiomodulation during dressing changes for 4 weeks, collecting patient and observer scar assessment scales at 3 and 6 months.
Panminerva Med · 2025 · PMID 41342905
Two cases were described in detail from a study of 20 patients with chronic diabetic foot ulcers receiving low level laser, platelet rich plasma and standard care, recording wound size, tissue and infection status.
Int Wound J · 2025 · PMID 41305962
Show all · 60 papersShow less
One immunosuppressed 60 year old woman with a bullous lower limb skin infection received antibiotics, dressings, topical agents and red light, documenting systemic status and skin wounds over 4 months.
Front Immunol · 2025 · PMID 41268563
60 participants with recent, older or acne scars received 660 nm light 2 or 3 times weekly with session counts adapted to scar type; scar color, size and satisfaction were measured.
Lasers Med Sci · 2025 · PMID 40802060
27 women with complicated wounds after breast reconstruction received standard care plus blue light; 35 instances of skin or nipple necrosis and wound dehiscence were followed for session counts, wound course and complications.
Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open · 2025 · PMID 40727624
11 patients with wounds persisting for at least 2 years received standard care plus 400 to 430 nm blue light twice weekly for 4 weeks, assessing area, pain, exudate and surrounding skin at baseline, week 4 and week 12.
Healthcare (Basel) · 2025 · PMID 40724677
12 hospitalized children with skin injuries received 410 to 430 nm blue light every 3 days, recording wound classifications, pain and adverse events for incontinence associated dermatitis, peristomal and pressure injuries.
Children (Basel) · 2025 · PMID 40564760
12 women with wound complications after breast cancer surgery received 660 nm laser, 658 and 858 nm LEDs plus elastic bandaging twice weekly for 7 weeks, assessing wound scores and area.
Lasers Med Sci · 2025 · PMID 40205141
One 32 year old woman with implant exposure and infection after breast reconstruction received implant removal, negative pressure wound care, photobiomodulation and antibiotics, with washout, irradiation and microbial sampling every 48 to 72 hours.
J Wound Care · 2025 · PMID 40047824
20 patients with type 2 diabetes received 660 nm light to lower limb wounds twice weekly for 7 weeks, assessing pain, sensory tests and quality of life alongside signaling and proliferation in biopsy derived fibroblasts.
Photochem Photobiol · 2025 · PMID 39829285
Two cases of recurrent auricular keloids after otoplasty describe a combined approach using silicone, low level laser, pressure massage and corticosteroids. Specific irradiation parameters are not reported in the abstract.
Acta Chir Plast · 2025 · PMID 41996220
A retrospective series of 3 patients with head and neck cancer and radiodermatitis receiving combined photobiomodulation and photodynamic exposure recorded pain, RTOG grades and lesion appearance before and after.
EXCLI J · 2024 · PMID 39624110
A small cohort receiving composite grafts for nasal and lower lip defects underwent five fluorescent light energy sessions every 2 to 3 days from postoperative day 2. Graft course, scars, infectious complications and donor sites were observed. Patient count was not stated in the abstract.
Case Reports Plast Surg Hand Surg · 2024 · PMID 39206024
One 75 year old woman with a severe diabetic foot ulcer received amniotic fluid gel and 810 nm photobiomodulation weekly for 16 weeks, recording ulcer area and pain.
J Lasers Med Sci · 2024 · PMID 39188930
One 55 year old man with uncontrolled diabetes and a foot ulcer received cleansing, topical antibiotics and laser at 10 J/cm² 3 times weekly, recording wound tissue and adverse events over 12 weeks.
Am J Case Rep · 2024 · PMID 38956839
A case report of a 55 year old man with a diabetic wound after parotid secretory carcinoma surgery receiving 810 nm light, recording wound status and adverse events with 5 year follow up.
Photobiomodul Photomed Laser Surg · 2024 · PMID 38574328
One patient with Parkinson disease and a draining sinus from a diabetic ulcer received low level laser plus rehabilitation, recording daily living, lower limb function and pain scales. Irradiation parameters are not reported in the abstract.
Cureus · 2024 · PMID 38650813
59 patients with lower limb skin wounds unresponsive to standard care received 410 to 430 nm blue light weekly for 4 weeks, 120 seconds per session, recording area, wound bed scores and pain by wound cause.
J Wound Care · 2023 · PMID 37907354
One 54 year old man undergoing lower limb skin graft rehabilitation after necrotizing fasciitis received ultrasound, low level laser, scar massage and exercises over four weeks. Pain, joint range, strength and lower extremity function were assessed.
Cureus · 2023 · PMID 37915879
A case report of one patient with head and neck burns receiving conventional care plus low level laser, documenting the skin wound course. Age and irradiation parameters are not reported in the abstract.
Natl J Maxillofac Surg · 2023 · PMID 38273913
One 20 year old man with a facial mpox skin ulcer received 4 daily photobiomodulation sessions plus 2 alternate day photodynamic sessions, recording pain and wound appearance.
Photodiagnosis Photodyn Ther · 2023 · PMID 36632872
One 47 year old woman with type 1 diabetes and a severe foot ulcer received photobiomodulation plus a methacrylate powder dressing, recording wound area, skin condition, discharge and pain over 16 weeks.
J Lasers Med Sci · 2022 · PMID 36743151
One 32 year old woman with a painful 15 cm scar after cholecystectomy received LED and laser exposure every other day in clinic for 6 weeks, followed by home use, with scar, pain and medication follow up.
Scars Burn Heal · 2022 · PMID 36310679
One 54 year old woman with incision dehiscence after abdominoplasty received daily Barbatimão gel and weekly low level laser exposure. Wound course was observed in outpatient care for 84 days following debridement.
Wound Manag Prev · 2021 · PMID 35030091
Two men with chronic venous leg ulcers received compression care plus blue light for 120 seconds per session, recording wound area, closure time and pain.
Cureus · 2021 · PMID 34650877
One 52 year old woman with diabetes and left cervicothoracic necrotizing fasciitis received ten red laser sessions twice weekly for cervical tissue loss after antibiotics, incision and drainage. Granulation tissue, wound margins and wound course were observed.
J Craniofac Surg · 2021 · PMID 33464777
Eleven patients, nine with diabetic foot ulcers and two with other nonhealing ulcers, received 660, 800 and 970 nm exposure alongside standard care. Wound length, width and granulation tissue were observed.
Int J Low Extrem Wounds · 2023 · PMID 33973828
Eighteen patients with acute second degree burns received fluorescent light energy in a case series recording tissue course and pain. A separate ex vivo human skin model underwent microarray gene expression analysis.
Mil Med · 2021 · PMID 33499452
One 84 year old woman with type 2 diabetes and a 1 cm right leg ulcer self applied light exposure at 3.2 J/cm² per minute for two 15 minute sessions. Cutaneous wound course was observed for 30 days.
Case Rep Med · 2020 · PMID 32518562
Four men aged 67 to 84 with diabetic foot or leg ulcers self applied an 808 nm device at 5 J/min alongside standard care. Wound course and pain were recorded during clinic or home use.
Can J Diabetes · 2020 · PMID 32241752
A case described defocused diode laser exposure in one patient with an ischemic wound after knee replacement surgery. Wound course was observed; wavelength and dose were not stated in the abstract.
J Lasers Med Sci · 2020 · PMID 32099637
Ten patients with diabetes and third degree burns received autologous fibroblast transplantation with laser exposure. Wound beds received 650 nm at 1 J/cm² and margins 808 nm at 6 J/cm² on alternate days for ten sessions, with wound course observed.
J Lasers Med Sci · 2019 · PMID 32021666
One 20 year old woman with paraplegia and a third degree necrotic burn received CO2 laser and 80% TCA debridement with 808 nm at 6 J/cm² and 650 nm at 2 J/cm² exposure. Wound course was observed across 25 sessions.
J Lasers Med Sci · 2019 · PMID 31875128
One older woman with digital gangrene after tourniquet use, partial nail removal and CO2 laser received dressings, medication and low level light exposure. Skin color, digit function and wound course were observed over three months.
J Lasers Med Sci · 2019 · PMID 31749955
A prospective observational study across 12 Italian centers enrolled 100 patients with chronic ulcers and analyzed 99. A chromophore gel and LED were used alongside standard care, with wound area and quality of life measurements.
J Wound Care · 2018 · PMID 30398941
One 50 year old man with venous and arterial ulcers on both legs for more than ten years received low level laser, photodynamic intervention and a cellulose membrane. Wound course was observed; irradiation parameters were not stated in the abstract.
Photodiagnosis Photodyn Ther · 2018 · PMID 29471148
An interim analysis of a prospective uncontrolled study recruiting 100 chronic wound patients at 12 centers included 33 completers: 13 venous ulcer, 17 diabetic foot ulcer and three pressure ulcer patients. Wound area, pain, quality of life and adverse events were recorded after fluorescent light gel application.
Drug Des Devel Ther · 2017 · PMID 29270004
Eight patients with grade III or IV sacroiliac or heel pressure ulcers received 660 nm irradiation at 2 J/cm² daily for 12 sessions. Wound photographs, area and IL6, TNF, VEGF and TGF expression in margin biopsies were compared before and after exposure.
Lasers Med Sci · 2018 · PMID 29181642
Thirty patients with chronic cutaneous and mucosal ulcers were enrolled for polarized light exposure twice weekly for 12 weeks, with symptom, tissue sample and ulcer characteristic assessments.
J Biol Regul Homeost Agents · 2017 · PMID 28702985
Eight patients with infected vascular lower limb ulcers unresponsive to prior care received fluorescent light gel alongside other interventions for three months. Skin lesion course was observed at follow up visits.
J Biol Regul Homeost Agents · 2017 · PMID 28702983
Two clinical cases described low level laser use in breastfeeding problems involving nipple damage and pain. Wavelength, dose and session count were not stated in the abstract.
Breastfeed Rev · 2016 · PMID 29211392
Thirteen third degree burn ulcers in patients with type 2 diabetes were exposed to low level laser before and after skin grafting. The protocol used 650 nm on wound beds, 810 nm on margins and intravenous 660 nm irradiation, with wound course observed for eight weeks.
Lasers Med Sci · 2016 · PMID 26868033
An 18 year old man with thalassemia intermedia and an ankle ulcer present for six months received LED exposure alongside antibiotics over six weeks, with wound observations and PUSH scale assessments.
Indian J Plast Surg · 2014 · PMID 25593435
Five patients aged 7 to 54 with excoriations, a dog bite, a post filler ulcer or lip injury received repeated 830 nm LED exposure, with wound and pain observations over one to eight weeks.
Laser Ther · 2013 · PMID 24155549
One patient with diabetes and chronic dehiscence after median sternotomy received low level laser exposure. Wound photographs, area, PUSH scores and sternal and shoulder pain were assessed before and after irradiation.
Indian J Palliat Care · 2013 · PMID 23766600
A 69 year old man with Klippel Trenaunay syndrome and an ankle ulcer present for six months received low level light exposure, with PUSH scale and wound assessments.
BMJ Case Rep · 2012 · PMID 22707702
A report of two patients with pemphigus vulgaris described low level laser exposure alongside systemic medication for oral and cutaneous lesions, with wound and pain observations.
Lasers Med Sci · 2012 · PMID 22538841
A child with dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, scarring and blisters on the limbs and trunk received six low level laser sessions, with cutaneous wound and pain observations.
J Cosmet Laser Ther · 2010 · PMID 20629531
One patient with saphenous vein harvest wound dehiscence after coronary bypass surgery received low level laser exposure around the incision from postoperative day 30, with wound and pain observations.
Rev Bras Cir Cardiovasc · 2009 · PMID 19504026
Sixteen nursing home residents received low level laser alongside a wound management program at 27 sites. PUSH scores, tracings and photographs were collected for 21 measurable open wounds over nine weeks.
Int Wound J · 2008 · PMID 18494640
Two cases involving sutured foot wounds received 904 nm low level laser exposure with semiquantitative postoperative wound assessment. The abstract does not separately specify the number of participants.
Photomed Laser Surg · 2005 · PMID 15782037
Six women with post irradiation mastitis and one man with a radiation induced ulcer received 780 nm laser exposure for four to six weeks. MRI and clinical observations were recorded before and after the course.
J Photochem Photobiol B · 2000 · PMID 11332876
Systematic reviews and meta analyses including human studies32
A systematic review of 4 randomized trials involving 473 women after cesarean section extracted irradiation parameters, pain, wound assessments, analgesic use and adverse event reporting.
Complement Ther Med · 2026 · PMID 42456438
A systematic review of 6 randomized LED trials in chronic lower limb wounds extracted wavelengths of 620 to 950 nm, dose, wound area, wound bed and microcirculation assessments. Total participant count is not reported in the abstract.
Lasers Med Sci · 2026 · PMID 42315692
A systematic review of 9 infrared and low level laser studies in postpartum perineal injuries pooled 5 studies, including 2 laser versus placebo studies with pain and wound measures. Participant total is not reported in the abstract.
Int Urogynecol J · 2026 · PMID 42217018
A scoping review of 7 randomized or prospective clinical studies involving 297 participants with burn, hypertrophic or postsurgical scars extracted red and near infrared irradiation parameters, scar scales and adverse event reporting.
Lasers Med Sci · 2026 · PMID 42026334
A systematic review included 11 randomized trials with 615 allocated participants, including 340 with venous ulcers; 4 trials contributed ulcer area data to meta analysis.
Wound Repair Regen · 2026 · PMID 41889013
A systematic review of 8 human studies after episiotomy included 6 in meta analysis, extracting perineal pain and wound measures from randomized and nonrandomized studies. Total participant count is not reported in the abstract.
J Clin Med · 2026 · PMID 41682644
A systematic review of 13 studies involving 1,377 women after episiotomy separately analyzed pain and wound data for laser versus placebo in 209 participants and laser versus ultrasound in 80.
Int J Gynaecol Obstet · 2026 · PMID 41450164
A network meta analysis included 99 randomized trials and 7356 patients across 12 diabetic foot ulcer interventions. LLLT was a separate intervention, with wound course, area and amputation assessed. The PBM subgroup participant count was not stated in the abstract.
PeerJ · 2025 · PMID 40821981
A Bayesian network meta analysis reviewed 30 randomized trials with 1929 participants receiving nonpharmacological interventions for chronic wound pain. LLLT was analyzed as a separate intervention using pain scores. LLLT subgroup participant count was not stated in the abstract.
Zhonghua Shao Shang Yu Chuang Mian Xiu Fu Za Zhi · 2025 · PMID 40419363
A meta analysis of 11 studies involving 657 participants with grade 1 or 2 diabetic foot ulcers extracted low level laser protocols, wound area, closure, bacterial and infection assessments.
Wound Repair Regen · 2025 · PMID 40186874
Show all · 32 papersShow less
A systematic review and meta analysis of 18 randomized trials involving 670 skin wounds extracted wound area, closure and pain measures from laser and nonlaser groups.
Cureus · 2024 · PMID 39610644
A systematic review of 10 photobiomodulation studies in older adults included 3 wound or ulcer studies and extracted exposure parameters and clinical assessments. The wound subgroup participant total is not reported in the abstract.
Biomedicines · 2024 · PMID 39061982
A network meta analysis of 42 randomized trials involving 4,884 participants compared radiodermatitis interventions including photobiomodulation using moist desquamation, dermatitis scores, pain, itching and burning assessments.
PLoS One · 2024 · PMID 38598529
A network meta analysis of 18 randomized trials involving 482 participants and 671 postsurgical wounds compared scar measures after low level laser and other devices initiated within 6 months of surgery.
Acta Derm Venereol · 2024 · PMID 38189223
A systematic review categorized 57 papers on photobiomodulation and autologous platelet gel for diabetic foot ulcers, extracting irradiation modalities, wavelengths and wound assessments. Photobiomodulation specific study and participant totals are not reported in the abstract.
J Lasers Med Sci · 2023 · PMID 38028869
A review searched six databases for LED studies of chronic wounds in patients with diabetes published from 2015 to 2022 and included eight clinical articles. Wound and tissue assessments were reviewed. Total participant count was not stated in the abstract.
Rev Gaucha Enferm · 2023 · PMID 37585961
A scoping review searched four databases and classified 22 blue light wound articles as cell, preclinical or clinical studies. Clinical wavelengths of 405 to 470 nm, doses of 1.5 to 30 J/cm² and assessment methods were summarized. Total clinical participant count was not stated in the abstract.
Life (Basel) · 2023 · PMID 36836932
A review included 13 clinical trials and two clinical case studies of diabetic foot ulcers. PBM parameters, accompanying care and reporting of skin color specific protocols were assessed. Total participant count was not stated in the abstract.
J Diabetes Res · 2022 · PMID 36573132
A review searched four databases for human diabetic foot and lower leg ulcer studies from 2000 to 2020 and included 13 studies with 417 participants. Study design was assessed with PEDro, alongside wavelengths, radiant exposure and wound measures.
Foot (Edinb) · 2021 · PMID 34390946
A systematic review of 7 randomized human trials in diabetic foot ulcers extracted wavelength, energy, power and methodological scores. Total participant count is not reported in the abstract.
Lasers Med Sci · 2021 · PMID 33190161
A meta analysis searched seven databases through September 2019 and included 12 randomized trials of diabetic foot ulcers. Ulcer area and closure were evaluated. Total participant count was not stated in the abstract.
Wound Repair Regen · 2021 · PMID 33078478
A systematic review of 5 pressure ulcer studies in adults and older people extracted laser wavelength, dose, wound area and closure time. Total participant count is not reported in the abstract.
Photochem Photobiol · 2020 · PMID 31550398
A PubMed search of human wound studies from the preceding five years included 11 articles. LED and laser wavelengths, doses, application methods and wound measures were reviewed. Total participant count was not stated in the abstract.
Adv Skin Wound Care · 2019 · PMID 30889017
A review searched four databases through January 2016 and included five case series and two case reports of diabetic foot ulcers. Low level laser and LED applications and wound course were summarized. Total participant count was not stated in the abstract.
J Drugs Dermatol · 2016 · PMID 27391634
A plastic surgery PBM review distinguished 12 human and 28 animal articles among 40 included studies. Human topics included burn scars and venous ulcers as well as skin aging and alopecia. Wound subgroup participant counts were not stated in the abstract.
Photomed Laser Surg · 2015 · PMID 25954831
A systematic review of diabetic foot ulcers screened 1764 records and included eight clinical trials, six animal studies and eight cell studies.
Evid Based Complement Alternat Med · 2014 · PMID 24744814
A literature review searched four databases for human and animal wound studies published from 2000 through 2011 and examined dose, wavelength and exposure time. The abstract does not report the number of included papers.
Rev Col Bras Cir · 2014 · PMID 24918727
A review searched four databases for light based keloid studies and selected 33 of 347 records. It examined LED and other light approaches alongside ablative lasers; the abstract does not report a separate PBM study count.
J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol · 2014 · PMID 24033440
A systematic review of pressure ulcer management searched through March 2008 and included 18 systematic reviews, 104 randomized trials and four observational studies. Low level laser was assessed within physical interventions.
Ont Health Technol Assess Ser · 2009 · PMID 23074533
A meta analysis included 24 wound laser studies and 31 outcome measures, separating animal experiments from human clinical studies and examining wound size, duration, collagen and tensile strength.
Photomed Laser Surg · 2004 · PMID 15315732
A systematic review of chronic wound management searched 19 electronic databases and additional sources. The light intervention section included four randomized laser trials for venous leg ulcers.
Health Technol Assess · 2001 · PMID 11368833
A systematic review searched through October 1997 and included four randomized trials of low level laser for venous leg ulcers, examining comparisons with placebo, ultraviolet, red light and combined infrared exposure.
J Wound Care · 1999 · PMID 10362987
Animal studies, including accompanying cell experiments48
18 rats were randomized to intact, chronic wound control or photobiomodulation groups; serum cytokines, growth factors, reactive oxygen species, platelet aggregation and histology were assessed 3 days after surgery.
Biomedica · 2026 · PMID 42757798
An observational cohort of 21 military dogs with tail wounds included 16 randomized to photobiomodulation or sham exposure, 8 per group, daily for 2 weeks; wound area, thermal imaging and wound scores were assessed.
Vet J · 2026 · PMID 42624280
In 9 female dogs after mastectomy, half of each wound was randomized to cold atmospheric plasma plus photobiomodulation and the other half to control, assessing visual scores, ultrasound, thermal imaging and selected histology on days 3, 7 and 14.
BMC Vet Res · 2026 · PMID 42907999
Open wounds in 15 dogs and cats were divided into randomly assigned fluorescence biomodulation and unexposed portions alongside standard care, assessing weekly area, visual scores and histology in selected cases.
Front Vet Sci · 2026 · PMID 42558436
Linear and circular wound models received a patch converting ambient light to red emission for combined tissue bonding and photobiomodulation, assessing proliferation, macrophages and wound course. Animal species and sample sizes are not reported in the abstract.
Adv Mater · 2026 · PMID 42400888
240 male rabbits with ear skin wounds received 3 plant derived extracellular vesicle preparations, 650 nm light, combinations or control; light was applied immediately and weekly, assessing collagen and vessels in tissue at days 7 and 14.
Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open · 2026 · PMID 42376274
Human adipose stem cells were preconditioned with 650 or 810 nm light and their extracellular vesicles applied to rat skin wounds; tissue strength, cells, vessels and gene markers were assessed at day 8. Animal count is not reported in the abstract.
Tissue Cell · 2026 · PMID 42284729
In vivo wound models and cell experiments compared 850 and 625 nm light, analyzing macrophage polarization, mitochondrial dynamics, fatty acid oxidation and glycolysis. Species and sample sizes are not reported in the abstract.
Adv Sci (Weinh) · 2026 · PMID 42227978
Full thickness wounds in type 2 diabetic rats received a decellularized dermal scaffold, photobiomodulation, their combination or control exposure, assessing area, tensile strength, histology and cytokines on days 8 and 16. Animal count is not reported in the abstract.
Histochem Cell Biol · 2026 · PMID 42133132
Rat full thickness skin wounds received 810 nm light or no exposure alongside experiments in peroxide stressed endothelial cells, assessing wound area, histology, vessels and oxidative markers. Animal count is not reported in the abstract.
Zhonghua Kou Qiang Yi Xue Za Zhi · 2026 · PMID 42056036
Show all · 48 papersShow less
A skin wound model received a 630 nm OLED patch with reactive oxygen responsive drug delivery particles, assessing wound closure, skin barrier and vascular measures across doses. Animal count and species are not reported in the abstract.
Mater Horiz · 2026 · PMID 41641509
A mouse model of induced type 1 diabetes received daily 660 nm light to skin wounds; pericytes, inflammatory markers and cell migration were assessed. Animal count is not reported in the abstract.
J Photochem Photobiol B · 2026 · PMID 41846091
45 male Wistar rats with induced diabetes and dorsal wounds received low level laser, polarized light or control exposure daily for 7 days, assessing wound dimensions and histology through day 21.
Lasers Surg Med · 2026 · PMID 41630637
60 male Wistar rats with induced second degree burns were randomized to control, silver sulfadiazine, sericin, photobiomodulation and combination groups; photography, temperature, histology and biochemical markers were assessed at 14 days.
Wound Repair Regen · 2026 · PMID 41728737
32 Wistar rats with skin flaps received 660 nm light for 2, 5 or 7 days or sham exposure; necrotic area, vessels, mast cells and angiogenesis markers were assessed on postoperative day 7.
Lasers Med Sci · 2025 · PMID 41460532
One 2 month old parakeet with a burn related crop fistula received 5 light applications at 48 hour intervals with antiseptic cleaning and oral meloxicam, documenting fistula status.
Case Rep Vet Med · 2025 · PMID 41019975
A rat full thickness burn model compared 810 nm, 904 nm and combined exposure with control conditions, analyzing inflammatory and pain related markers, redox status and histology at 7 days. Animal count is not reported in the abstract.
J Photochem Photobiol B · 2025 · PMID 40972408
Full thickness skin wounds in normal mice received daily multiwavelength pulsed LED exposure alongside HaCaT keratinocyte scratch assays, assessing epithelium, histology, gene expression and cytoskeleton. Sample sizes are not reported in the abstract.
Cells · 2025 · PMID 41002381
48 type 2 diabetic rats with infected ischemic wounds received photobiomodulation, adipose stem cells, their combination or control exposure, assessing histology, macrophage phenotypes and growth factor genes at days 4 and 8.
Photobiomodul Photomed Laser Surg · 2025 · PMID 40888423
36 male mice with induced pressure wounds were assigned equally to surgical debridement, debridement plus 808 nm exposure or 980 nm laser debridement, assessing wound area and histology 7 and 9 days after debridement.
Lasers Med Sci · 2025 · PMID 40736587
40 diabetic rats were assigned to control, an amniotic membrane collagen scaffold, photobiomodulation or their combination; wound area, histology, vessels and inflammatory markers were assessed on days 4 and 8.
Tissue Cell · 2025 · PMID 40749426
A diabetic wound animal model received daily pulsed red and near infrared LED exposure alongside human keratinocyte and fibroblast experiments assessing migration, adhesion and extracellular matrix. Sample sizes are not reported in the abstract.
Int J Mol Sci · 2025 · PMID 40650010
Pigmented hairless mice with wounds received 661 nm light under varying irradiances and durations at 2 or 4 J/cm², assessing photographs, histology, skin biophysics and infrared spectroscopy. Animal count is not reported in the abstract.
Photochem Photobiol Sci · 2025 · PMID 40338500
630 nm light duration and distance were compared in NIH/3T3 cells and then applied to 4 mm skin wounds in nude mice, assessing histology, collagen, vascular and inflammatory markers at days 7 and 21. Animal count is not reported in the abstract.
Lasers Med Sci · 2025 · PMID 40175683
Photobiomodulation was applied to skin wounds and dermal cell models, examining adipocytes, NG2, gene expression, proliferation and migration. Species and sample sizes are not reported in the abstract.
J Photochem Photobiol B · 2025 · PMID 40187095
20 rats with dorsal skin wounds received photobiomodulation or control exposure, examining adipocyte organization and counts in tissue on days 5 and 10.
Lasers Med Sci · 2025 · PMID 40111643
24 male Wistar rats with full thickness burns received 660 nm, 808 nm or sham exposure, 3 times weekly for 21 days and 9 sessions, with wound, collagen and histological assessments.
Lasers Med Sci · 2025 · PMID 40067520
Hairless mouse skin wounds received one 625 nm LED session at 18 J/cm² under 2 linear polarization states, unpolarized light or control, assessing area, optical coherence images and histology. Animal count is not reported in the abstract.
Photochem Photobiol Sci · 2025 · PMID 40053241
Forty rabbits with type 2 diabetes were assigned to control, adipose derived stem cell, laser or combination groups. Dorsal wounds received 660 nm light as specified in the abstract daily for four weeks. Wounds and biomechanical measures were assessed on days 7, 15 and 30.
Arch Dermatol Res · 2025 · PMID 39873794
40 male SD rats with MRSA infected skin flaps were divided equally between combined red and blue LED exposure and control, assessing flap area, vessel density and protein markers after 7 days.
Lasers Med Sci · 2025 · PMID 39847197
Thirty male Wistar rats with second degree burns were assigned to control, zinc oxide nanoparticle or 810 nm laser groups. Applications were given daily for one week, with wound contraction and histology assessed.
Int J Low Extrem Wounds · 2026 · PMID 39819192
Diabetic mouse skin wounds received 2 J/cm² from a red OLED and near infrared conversion film device, assessing wound area, epidermal thickness and cytokines at day 10. Animal count is not reported in the abstract.
ACS Appl Mater Interfaces · 2025 · PMID 39818728
A rat chronic wound study compared intact, control and photobiomodulation groups, assessing serum cytokines, growth factor, epithelium, leukocytes, fibroblasts, vessels and collagen on days 14 and 28. Animal count is not reported in the abstract.
Pol Merkur Lekarski · 2025 · PMID 40322796
56 diabetic Wistar rats with full thickness skin wounds were randomized to heterologous fibrin biopolymer, LED, combination or control groups, assessing area, collagen and biomechanics at 7 and 14 days.
Lasers Med Sci · 2024 · PMID 39542936
36 Wistar rats received 660 nm, 808 nm or control exposure at the recipient site of full thickness skin grafts, assessing macroscopic necrosis and histology on postoperative days 3 and 7.
J Biophotonics · 2024 · PMID 39420240
30 mice were randomized in groups of 6 to control, chitosan scaffold, scaffold plus human adipose stem cells, scaffold plus photobiomodulation or all 3, assessing wound area, microbes, strength and histology.
J Lasers Med Sci · 2024 · PMID 39381785
Skin wounds in hindlimb unloaded mice received light exposure for 14 days, with parallel HaCaT and NIH3T3 rotation cultures. Histology, inflammatory markers, PI3K/AKT and CCR2 were assessed. Animal and cell replicate counts were not stated in the abstract.
Front Bioeng Biotechnol · 2024 · PMID 39193227
Wistar rats with chronic wounds received 660 nm light at 1 J/cm², assessing platelet aggregation, PDGF, IL8, a collagen propeptide and histology. Animal count is not reported in the abstract.
Folia Med Cracov · 2024 · PMID 39254584
Mouse dorsal wounds and hair follicle stem cell models received low level laser exposure, assessing wound area, stem cell proliferation and Wnt and beta catenin signaling. Sample sizes are not reported in the abstract.
Skin Res Technol · 2024 · PMID 38887112
Sixty three male CD1 mice were studied with 6 mm skin wounds under laser alone, methylene blue PEG, combined and other control conditions. Exposure used 650±5 nm light, with histology, TNFα and IL1β assessed at 48 hours and day 21.
Lasers Med Sci · 2024 · PMID 38801600
Forty eight male SD rats with 6 mm skin or oral wounds were assigned by wound location and natural course or 808 nm irradiation. Five alternate day sessions were followed by wound area, collagen, TNFα, TGFβ and CREB phosphorylation assessments.
Int J Mol Sci · 2024 · PMID 38732058
10 cownose rays with dermal abrasions were compared in photobiomodulation and control groups of 5, both receiving antibiotics, with photographs and wound scores recorded at each session.
Zoo Biol · 2024 · PMID 38546103
Eighteen rats with cutaneous wounds were allocated to control, marine sponge collagen dressing or dressing plus PBM groups. Histology, morphometry and COX2, TGFβ, FGF and VEGF staining were assessed.
Mar Biotechnol (NY) · 2024 · PMID 38441733
Five groups of rats with type 1 diabetes and infected ischemic wounds received adipose derived stem cells, PBM preconditioning, wound irradiation or combinations. Histology, macrophages and SDF1α, VEGF, HIF1α and bFGF were assessed on days 4 and 8. Animal count was not stated in the abstract.
Lasers Med Sci · 2024 · PMID 38438583
Mouse models of ordinary, diabetic and bacterially infected wounds received the same PBM protocol over 14 days. Wounds, inflammation scores, inflammatory cells, IL6 and TNFα were assessed. Animal count was not stated in the abstract.
J Photochem Photobiol B · 2024 · PMID 38387147
Four groups of rats with type 1 diabetes and infected ischemic wounds received adipose derived stem cell conditioned medium, PBM, both or control care. Wound strength, bacteria, inflammatory cells, vessels, epidermis and dermis were assessed on days 4 and 8. Animal count was not stated in the abstract.
Lasers Med Sci · 2024 · PMID 38270723
Sixty C57BL/6 mice were assigned to five groups of 12 by diabetes status, IL1β inhibitor peptide and PBM combination. Applications followed cutaneous excision daily for five days, with wound size, cytokines, redox measures and collagen assessed.
Inflammation · 2024 · PMID 38236386
Wistar rats with chronic wounds received daily photobiomodulation or sham exposure for 5 days, assessing platelet aggregation, reactive oxygen species, growth factor, IL1 beta and histology. Animal count is not reported in the abstract.
Pol Merkur Lekarski · 2024 · PMID 39007463
Cell and ex vivo studies13
A fibroblast wound model received combined 655 and 808 nm exposure at 0.5, 1 or 2 J/cm² with single or triple applications, assessing viability, reactive oxygen species and migration. Replicate count is not reported in the abstract.
Photobiomodul Photomed Laser Surg · 2026 · PMID 42286424
WS1 fibroblasts in normal, wounded, hyperglycemic and hypoxic conditions received 830 nm light at 5 J/cm²; migration, viability, proliferation, apoptosis and protein signaling were assessed at 24 and 48 hours. Replicate count is not reported in the abstract.
Lasers Med Sci · 2026 · PMID 41888500
Human dermal fibroblasts received LED, complex magnetic fields and methylglyoxal alone or in combinations, assessing viability, morphology, cytoskeleton, collagen and scratch migration. Replicate count is not reported in the abstract.
Lasers Med Sci · 2025 · PMID 41372538
L929 fibroblasts received light from a portable LED device, assessing viability, migration, adhesion to fibronectin and collagen, and cell cycle. Replicate count is not reported in the abstract.
J Biophotonics · 2026 · PMID 41320803
A diabetic WS1 fibroblast scratch model received lauric acid and tea tree oil lipid nanoparticles with 830 nm light, assessing morphology, gap closure, ATP and apoptosis at 24 and 48 hours. Replicate count is not reported in the abstract.
Lasers Med Sci · 2025 · PMID 41075109
HaCaT keratinocytes, human dermal fibroblasts and endothelial cells received 450 nm light, assessing viability, proliferation, ATP, migration, apoptosis and transcriptomes across doses. Replicate count is not reported in the abstract.
Biomedicines · 2025 · PMID 40868134
Human dermal fibroblasts, keratinocytes and endothelial cells under high glucose received 600 to 1200 nm polychromatic light for 3 minutes on alternate days over 7 days, assessing proliferation, migration, matrix proteins and tube formation. Replicate count is not reported in the abstract.
J Photochem Photobiol B · 2025 · PMID 40674824
Mouse L929 fibroblasts received 810 nm light under continuous or intermittent modes at 0.1 or 0.5 W, assessing scratch closure, proliferation and reactive oxygen species. Replicate count is not reported in the abstract.
Photobiomodul Photomed Laser Surg · 2025 · PMID 40628499
Hyperglycemic endothelial cells modeling diabetic wounds received 660 nm light for 200 seconds, assessing proliferation, scratch migration, tube formation and PDGF, VEGF and TGF beta signaling at 24 and 48 hours. Replicate count is not reported in the abstract.
Wound Repair Regen · 2025 · PMID 40693589
Normal and diabetic WS1 fibroblast wound models received plant polysaccharide based gold nanoparticles plus photobiomodulation, assessing morphology, gap closure, nuclei and actin. Replicate count is not reported in the abstract.
Sci Rep · 2025 · PMID 40328891
A diabetic WS1 fibroblast scratch model compared vanillin and 660 nm light at 5 J/cm² alone or combined, assessing gap closure, oxidative markers and glucose metabolic enzymes at 24 hours. Replicate count is not reported in the abstract.
J Cell Mol Med · 2025 · PMID 40194982
Normal, wounded, diabetic, diabetic wounded and D galactose wounded fibroblast models received 830 nm irradiation at 5 J/cm². Migration, viability, apoptosis, inflammatory cytokines, NFκB and AGER were assessed. Replicate count was not stated in the abstract.
Photobiomodul Photomed Laser Surg · 2024 · PMID 39253808
Human dermal fibroblasts underwent wound assays and growth factor, collagen and MMP expression analysis after OLED or LED irradiation. Separate ex vivo human skin and UV animal skin assessments were also performed. Sample counts were not stated in the abstract.
Yonsei Med J · 2024 · PMID 38288650
1064 of 1293 records excluded: outside direct PBM research on skin wounds, burns, scars, flaps or grafts (519), narrative reviews or mechanism overviews without documented systematic human study selection (129), reviews limited to preclinical studies before 2024 (21), no abstract (16), study protocols (7), computational or mathematical models (3), animal, cell or ex vivo studies first published before 2024 (346), retractions, corrections or commentary without independent study data (7), device or optical measurements only (4), no direct PBM application data (6), population, model or intervention eligibility not established in the abstract (6). No duplicate DOI or PMID records were found.
View the search query
TITLE_ABS:(photobiomodulation OR PBMT OR "low level laser" OR "low level light" OR "red light therapy") AND TITLE_ABS:(wound* OR burn* OR "skin flap" OR "skin graft" OR "graft integration") AND (SRC:MED OR SRC:PMC) AND FIRST_PDATE:[* TO 2026-10-29]
Search Europe PMCFrequently asked questions
How many papers directly studied people?
There are 136 papers: 44 randomized trials, 32 controlled studies and 60 studies without a control group. Another 32 systematic reviews and meta analyses including human studies form a separate group.
Which wounds and exposure methods were studied?
The papers address diabetic foot ulcers, venous leg ulcers, pressure ulcers, burns, surgical wounds, scars, skin flaps and grafts. Methods include lasers, LEDs, polarized light, fluorescence mediated exposure and intravascular exposure.
How were years and sample sizes recorded?
Human studies have no lower year limit, while preclinical studies require first publication in 2024 or later. Participant counts, animal counts and study counts are distinguished; sample sizes absent from abstracts are marked as unreported.