Analysis of the healing process of the wounds occurring in rats using laser therapy in association with hydrocolloid.

PURPOSE To evaluate wound healing in rats by using low-level laser therapy (LLLT) associated with hydrocolloid occlusive dressing. METHODS Forty male, adult, Wistar rats were used, distributed into four groups: LG (received 2 J/cm² of laser therapy); HG (treated with hydrocolloid); LHG (treated with 2 J/cm² of laser therapy and hydrocolloid); and the CG (treated with 1 mL of 0.9% saline). The wound was evaluated at pre-determined periods 3rd and 7th days, considering the macroscopic and histological parameters (inflammatory cells, capillary neoformation, fibroblasts, collagen formation and reepithelialization). RESULTS The LG group at seven days showed increased collagen formation, the LHG group at 3 days showed mild collagen formation. The HG group and the CG at 7 days showed complete reepithelialization. CONCLUSION Low-level laser therapy as well as the hydrocolloid dressing have favored the wound-healing process in rats.