Calibration and Maintenance of Low Power Laser Devices: Descriptive Study

Introduction: The low-power laser is a technique used in several areas of health: physiotherapy, dentistry, otorhinolaryngology and dermatology, among others. To achieve therapeutic effects, the dosage is essential and depends on the energy levels emitted by the device. Objective: To know the status...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: Benítez, Ernesto (author)
Other Authors: Ferreiro, María del Carmen (author)
Format: article
Language:Spanish
English
Published: 2022
Subjects:
Online Access:https://revistas.ucu.edu.uy/index.php/enfermeriacuidadoshumanizados/article/view/2855
https://hdl.handle.net/10895/6318
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Summary:Introduction: The low-power laser is a technique used in several areas of health: physiotherapy, dentistry, otorhinolaryngology and dermatology, among others. To achieve therapeutic effects, the dosage is essential and depends on the energy levels emitted by the device. Objective: To know the status of calibration and maintenance of low power laser therapy devices, in physiotherapy services or counterparts of institutions in Montevideo - Uruguay. Method: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in physiotherapy services in Montevideo, Uruguay. 20 low-power laser devices were analyzed. Results: 7 of the devices evaluated remained within the appropriate emission limits. Of the 13 lasers outside the limits to deliver adequate emission, 6 had a slight mismatch, 1 had a moderate mismatch, and 6 presented a severe mismatch. Among the total devices evaluated, only 6 had performed a previous calibration and only 2 of these were within the recommended times frames. Conclusion: A large number of low-power laser devices with imbalances in their emission was observed. In most cases, low-power laser devices are not properly maintained. Equipment should be timely calibrated in order to offer safe and effective therapy to users.