CLINICAL OUTCOMES OF THE USE OF PHOTOBIOMODULATION IN DYSPHAGIC PATIENTS IN A GENERAL HOSPITAL

Abstract

Introduction: Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a therapeutic modality indicated for optimizing the functional performance of the stomatognathic system. Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disease of genetic, environmental, or multifactorial etiology that can increase the risk of bronchoaspiration. Dysphagia, in turn, may lead to malnutrition, dehydration, aspiration pneumonia, and even death. Therefore, PBM study as a therapeutic resource in the treatment of dysphagia becomes essential, because it may promote analgesia, modulation of inflammation, muscle improvement and tissue healing. Objective: To describe the speech therapy outcomes of PBM application in dysphagic patients, including those with DM. Methodology: Data were collected from patients treated for dysphagia with PBM during hospitalization, using information obtained from electronic medical records between December 2022 and December 2023. Speech-Language Pathology Protocol for Dysphagia Risk Assessment (PARD) and Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS)Results: Nine participants were included, with a mean age of 55 years (±22.4), predominantly male (77.8%) and single (44.4%). Among them, 22.2% (n=2) had diabetes, and 44.4% (n=4) had systemic arterial hypertension; 11.1% (n=1) were smokers, and 33.3% (n=3) were former smokers. Regarding PBM parameters, 55.6% (n=5) received irradiation on the suprahyoid muscles at doses of 3–4 J, and 44.4% (n=4) received it on the tongue at doses of 2–4 J. A significant improvement in the degree of dysphagia was observed in evaluations at hospital discharge. Conclusion: The use of PBM as an adjunct therapy showed positive results in swallowing rehabilitation. Its association with conventional therapeutic approaches—particularly when using infrared light—enhances clinical outcomes due to greater penetration into the involved muscle tissues.