Low Level Diode Laser Treatment for Hematomas under Grafted Skin and Its Photobiological Mechanisms

Abstract

Hematoma formation is a frustrating complication of free skin grafting. Application of a low level diode laser to hematomas stimulates absorption with no side effects or scarring as presented in two clinical cases. Despite these satisfactory results little is known about the photobiological mechanism of the laser itself. In an in vitro study the author presents two photobiological effects of the low level diode laser. First, it stimulates PGI₂ secretion in cultured human endothelial cells. PGI₂ known as prostacyclin, has an anti-aggregatory effect on platelets and strong vasodilating properties. This increase of PGI₂ in laser treated groups enhanced hematoma absorption. Second, the diode laser degradates the ¹²⁵I labelled fibrin net by mechanical action. Continued research of the mechanism of the low level laser will expand the applications of laser treatment in the field of plastic surgery.