Clinical dosimetry and efficacy of LED photobiomodulation for chronic lower-limb wound healing: a systematic review of randomized trials.
Level 1 - systematic review of randomized trials
Systematic review of randomized clinical trials
PubMed 42315692 · doi:10.1007/s10103-026-04928-y
What was done
This systematic review searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase through May 2026 to evaluate randomized clinical trials investigating light-emitting diode (LED) photobiomodulation for chronic lower-limb wound healing. Six randomized trials met inclusion criteria, and evidence certainty was evaluated using the GRADE approach.
What was found
The 6 included trials assessed wavelengths from 620 to 950 nm and energy densities from 2.4 to 126 J/cm². Findings suggested LED photobiomodulation may promote wound area reduction, improve wound bed quality, and increase microcirculation, particularly in diabetic foot ulcers. However, one study testing a high energy density of 126 J/cm² showed no beneficial effect. No specific quantitative pooled effect sizes were reported in the abstract. Overall evidence certainty was rated as very low.
Why it matters
LED photobiomodulation is a low-cost, noninvasive adjunctive option for chronic wounds, but standard therapeutic dosimetry remains undetermined.
Limits
The review included only 6 trials with small sample sizes, methodological weaknesses, and substantial heterogeneity in irradiation parameters. Inconsistency and indirectness led to very low GRADE certainty, precluding definitive conclusions.
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