Objective: To investigate the ability of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) to alleviate pain caused by the cryosurgical treatment of oral leukoplakia (OL). Methods: Ten patients with OL were submitted to cryosurgical treatment (Non-LLLT group) and eight were submitted to cryosurgical treatment associated with LLLT (LLLT group). Laser irradiation of patients within the LLLT group was performed using a 50 mW 660 nm continuous wave Gallium Aluminum Arsenide (GaAlAs) laser with a spot size at the tissue surface of 0.0286 cm2 (irradiance = 1.75 W/cm2). Three points within an area of 1 cm2 around the cryosurgical site were irradiated in contact mode for 28 s per point (1.4 J at 49 J/cm2 per point). Irradiation was carried out immediately following cryosurgical treatment and at 48 and 72 h post-cryosurgical treatment. A numerical rating scale was used to assess the pain. The relationship between the treated groups and pain was assessed using the Mann–Whitney test. Results: Treated OL sites appeared to be clinically normal and with no evidence of recurrence during the average 9-month follow-up period. It could be observed that the LLLT group reported less pain than did the non-LLLT group. Conclusion: LLLT is an important strategy used to reduce post-surgical pain caused by cryosurgical treatment of OL.
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