Overview

Photo-biomodulation therapy (PBMT) can help with some of the side effects of radiotherapy to the head and neck areas.

Modern radiotherapy techniques reduce side effects to a minimum, but some cannot be avoided. PBMT can help with short-term side effects like a sore mouth, or long-term side effects like changes to your skin.

Oral mucositis

A sore and swollen mouth is a common side effect of radiotherapy for head and neck cancer. This is called oral mucositis. Oral mucositis happens because radiotherapy treatment causes pain and swelling (inflammation) of the soft tissues in the mouth.

If you have oral mucositis, you might have:

• a red, shiny, or puffy (swollen) mouth or gums
• bleeding in the mouth
• painful sores or ulcers in the mouth (that can increase the chance of infection)
• a very sore mouth or throat that hurts when you eat, drink or talk
• trouble swallowing
• a dry mouth, or burning or stinging when eating
• white patches or pus in the mouth
• sticky or thick spit (saliva)

We give you medicines to help with these symptoms. PBMT can also help.

Long-term side effects of radiotherapy

Sometimes, people have side effects from radiotherapy that can be long-term or permanent. For radiotherapy to the head and neck areas, some of these side effects are:

• skin in the treatment area changing colour (usually lighter or darker for any skin tone)
• permanent skin texture changes in the treatment area (thicker or thinner skin)
• small visible blood vessels (telangiectasia) which look like spidery marks in the treatment area
• jaw stiffness (trismus)
• swallowing problems
• scarring (fibrosis)
• facial palsy (when part of your face feels weak)

PBMT can help with some of these symptoms.

How PBMT works

Inside our bodies, we have tiny parts in our cells called mitochondria. These mitochondria are like little batteries, as they give energy to our cells so that they can work and heal. Sometimes, when you get cancer treatment, the mitochondria stop working so well. This can lead to pain and swelling (inflammation).

PBMT uses light to help mitochondria work better. When the light shines on your mouth, it helps your cells get more energy. This means your mouth can heal faster and hurt less.

During the treatment

We use a probe that shines the special LED light on your mouth and skin. There are 2 types of probes. We sometimes use both of them to help you heal better.

Length of PBMT treatment

The treatment is usually given 2 to 5 times a week, on the days that you have your cancer treatment. Each treatment takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

Once you have been shown how to use the machine and feel comfortable using it, you might be able to give the treatment yourself. This might help you feel more in control of your treatment.

Risks or side effects of PBMT

PBMT is generally very safe, but side effects do happen occasionally. Trained staff will watch carefully during treatment to make sure you are OK, and will stop if you feel any discomfort.

Eye damage

If the light shines in your eyes, it can hurt them. That’s why you’ll always wear special glasses to keep your eyes safe. We are very careful to make sure the light only shines where it’s needed and never into your eyes.

Skin damage

If the light is on your skin too long or if it’s too strong, your skin might become red, sore, or feel like it’s burning a little. This should improve within a few hours.

Photosensitivity

Some people’s skin can be extra sensitive, so the light might make it itchy or uncomfortable.

Interference with implants (metal implants or pacemakers)

If you have metal parts inside your body, like a pacemaker, the light might cause problems, so the doctors will check first.

Giving your permission (consent)

We want to involve you in decisions about your care and treatment. If you decide to have the procedure or treatment, we’ll ask you to sign a consent form. This says that you understand what’s involved and agree to have the treatment.

Read more about our consent process.