APPLICATION OF PHOTOBIOMODULATION IN THE REAHABILITATION OF ONCOLOGY PATIENTS WITH EXTRACTION- INDUCED OSTEORADIONECROSIS

Abstract

Osteoradionecrosis (ORN) is a serious complication of radiotherapy in cancer patients and may be associated with invasive procedures such as tooth extraction. In this context, photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) has been investigated for its effects on inflammation and pain control, as well as for its potential to promote tissue and bone repair. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic effects and clinical challenges of photobiomodulation in the rehabilitation of cancer patients with tooth extraction-induced osteoradionecrosis. This literature review comprised 25 publications, which were analyzed regarding the protocols employed, therapeutic effects, associated therapies, and oncological safety. The findings showed predominantly favorable outcomes regarding the use of PBMT, either alone or in combination with other therapeutic modalities. However, considerable heterogeneity was observed among the protocols, particularly regarding wavelength, power, energy, fluence, and treatment frequency, making direct comparison of the findings difficult and preventing the establishment of a standardized therapeutic protocol. In addition, few publications directly addressed oncological safety. In conclusion, photobiomodulation shows promising potential for the prevention and management of ORN; however, protocol heterogeneity and limitations of the available evidence highlight the need for more robust and standardized clinical studies.