Chapter 45 Light Agents
OVERVIEW.
Laser stands for light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation. Cold (low power) lasers use less than 60 mW of power and produce little or no thermal response. The He-Ne cold laser has generated interest in physical therapy because of its purported wound healing and analgesic effects (when used over acupuncture or trigger points).1–5 Users must obtain an investigational device exemption from the FDA for this class III medical device. In 2002, the FDA approved its use for carpal tunnel syndrome.5,6
SUMMARY: CONTRAINDICATIONS AND PRECAUTIONS.
Six sources cited a total of 23 concerns for cold laser. Concerns ranged from 3 to 13 per source, with a physical therapist citing the largest number. The largest proportion of concerns were listed under skin, vulnerable tissue, or procedural categories. Many concerns are inadequately explained for cold laser; perhaps the basis for some concerns is a lack of information on its effects on tissue.3 The most frequently cited concern was irradiating the eyes (a concern well supported by evidence), use during pregnancy, and application near cancerous lesions.
CONTRAINDICATIONS AND PRECAUTIONS
D50-D89 DISEASES OF 3BLOOD AND BLOOD-FORMING ORGANS
F00-F99 MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL DISORDERS
G00-G99 DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM
I00-I99 DISEASES OF THE CIRCULATORY SYSTEM
L00-L99 DISEASES OF THE SKIN AND SUBCUTANEOUS TISSUE
O00-O99 PREGNANCY, CHILDBIRTH, AND PUERPERIUM
R00-R99 SYMPTOMS, SIGNS, AND ABNORMAL CLINICAL AND LABORATORY FINDINGS (NOT ELSEWHERE CLASSIFIED)
