Influence of class IV laser therapy on the outcomes of tibial plateau leveling osteotomy in dogs

ObjectiveTo determine the effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on clinical outcomes in dogs with cranial cruciate ligament disease treated with tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO). Study designRandomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Owners and surgeons (care providers and assessors) were masked. AnimalsNinety-five dogs were admitted for TPLO and assigned to 1 of 2 groups, laser group (LG; n=51) or placebo group (PG; n=44). MethodsThree treatments (laser or placebo) were administered within a 4-day perioperative period. A fourth treatment was recommended and was accepted in 28.4% of cases (LG, n=14; PG, n=13). Dogs in the LG group received laser at wavelengths 660 nm red (100 mW) and at 800, 905 and 970 nm infrared (maximum 15 W continuous wave, 20 W peak pulsed wave), administered simultaneously. Dogs in the PG group received placebo laser (660 nm, 4 mW). Other treatments were identical. Outcomes were measured by difference in clinical metrology instruments (Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs and adjusted Canine Orthopedic Index [COI]), osteotomy healing on a radiographic scale, time to cessation of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug administration, and wound healing by owner questionnaire. ResultsThe only difference detected between groups consisted of a greater improvement in the gait section of the adjusted COI (ACOI) in the LG group (median [interquartile range; IQR]=6 [4-7.5]) compared with the PG group (median [IQR]= 4 [2-6]; P<.05). ConclusionThe laser protocol used in this study was associated with a greater improvement in ACOI gait in dogs treated with TPLO but did not improve any other clinical metrology instrument scores or bone healing. Clinical significanceThis study provides some evidence that LLLT may improve the gait of dogs recovering from a TPLO, as assessed by owners.