A Study on the Effect of 850 nm Low-Level Diode Laser versus Electrical Stimulation in Facial Nerve Regeneration for Patients with Bell's Palsy.

INTRODUCTION: Bell's palsy is acute facial paralysis with unclear etiology that results in weakness of facial muscles or paralysis on one side of the face. METHODS: This prospective, randomized, single-blind, controlled study was conducted on 45 patients with Bell's palsy who were randomly divided into three equal groups. Two groups received either low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or electrical stimulation (E.S.) both in conjunction to medications, massage, and facial exercise treatment. The third group (control) was treated with medication, massage, and facial exercise. RESULTS: The primary outcome was the improvement of nerve conduction velocity of facial nerve while the secondary outcome was the change of Sunnybrook facial grading system (SBGS). The outcome measures were evaluated pre- and posttreatment. There was statistically significant difference between the three groups in favor of the LLLT group regarding the nerve action potential amplitude and latency, in addition to signs of nerve regeneration and improved SBGS. CONCLUSION: This short-term investigation revealed that LLLT proved to be more efficient than E.S. in facial nerve regeneration for patients with Bell's palsy.