Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

Laser energy for a strengthened immune system and better wound healing

Laser light has been successfully used in medicine for many years. The effect of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has been researched very thoroughly in numerous scientific studies and there is clear evidence of its effectiveness for many diseases.

What is low-level laser therapy?

LLLT is a so-called regulation therapy. With the help of the laser, electromagnetic energy is brought to the place to be treated. There it is converted into biochemical energy and thus influences or regulates the cell metabolism.

What is the effect of low-level laser therapy?

Laser light improves the availability of adenosine triphosphate - a universal energy carrier that controls energy-supplying processes in cells. This activation of cell metabolism accelerates the division rate of different cell types (e.g. fibroblasts), macrophage activity (macrophages of the immune system) is promoted and phagocytosis (uptake of smaller cells) is accelerated. In this way the healing of wounds is supported and the immune system is strengthened.

LLLT can also be used to relieve pain. The laser releases pain-inhibiting neurotransmitters such as serotonin or endorphins. In addition, the release of messenger substances that can cause pain (e.g. prostaglandins) is inhibited. Studies have shown that pain can be specifically relieved by this double effect.

In addition, LLLT has an anti-inflammatory and decongestant effect. Neurotransmitters such as serotonin are also effective against inflammation (antiphlogistic effect) and swelling (antiedematous effect).

What are the advantages of low-level laser therapy?

Through the improved healing of wounds, patients are fit again more quickly and do not suffer from the impairments over a longer period of time. If LLLT is used correctly, there are no known side effects. It is very well tolerated and the health is not burdened.

Pain can usually be reduced with low-level laser therapy after the first treatment. Swelling and oedema decrease more quickly and the risk of wound infections is significantly reduced.

The treatment is pleasant, patients only feel a slight development of heat. Depending on the indication, an application lasts only about five minutes.

In our proctological practice we use the LLLT for the following complaints:

1. Promotion of wound healing after surgery:

• Pilonidal Sinus
• anal fistula

2. Conservative treatment:

• anal fissure
• Anal itching (pruritus ani)
• Anal Eczema
• Anal Psoriasis
• Acne inversa (Hidradenitis suppurativa)

Feel free to contact us if you would like to learn more about the possibilities of low-level laser therapy. Dr Hofer and Dr Bärtl will be happy to answer all your questions.