LIGHT, SOUND

These are advanced therapies designed to speed up healing of all types of wounds. 

Ultrasound (“Sound”) is a form of mechanical energy that is applied directly to the tissues. Ultraviolet light (“Light”) is a form of invisible light energy that is applied directly to the tissues. Both these sound and light energies are used as a painless treatment to increase skin circulation and encourage production of healing cells to help speed up healing of wounds. These therapies are applied by professionals who are trained in their use.

  • What are Sound and Light?
  • Sound and Light Protocols
  • Sound and Light application techniques

    Ultrasound is applied around the edges of the wound using an inert coupling medium (i.e. gel).  The amount of time that ultrasound is applied to the wound varies between 5 and 15 minutes. The wound dressing must be removed and the wound must be cleaned before the treatment is applied.

     

     

     

    An ultraviolet lamp is used to deliver ultraviolet light to the wound. The ultraviolet lamp is applied to the wound usually 1 inch away from the wound surface. The amount of time that the wound is exposed to the light varies between 15 seconds and 2-3 minutes. The wound dressing must be removed and the wound must be cleaned before the treatment is applied.

  • Identifying appropriate clients for Sound and Light

    Ultrasound units are widely available and patient preparation is minimal. The delivery of ultraviolet light to wounds is feasible in any healthcare setting. Both ultrasound and ultraviolet units are relatively inexpensive and portable.

    All types of wounds are usually suitable to be treated with ultrasound and ultraviolet energies. Ultrasound is particularly effective for wounds that are undermining at the wound edge and have tunnels. Ultraviolet can be used for rapid and painless debridement of necrotic tissue. Adverse effects in wound care have not been reported. However, malignant wounds are not treated with ultrasound and ultraviolet light.

  • Contraindications and Precautions

    It is dangerous to look directly into an ultraviolet lamp as the conjunctiva can become irritated when exposed. To prevent any damage, goggles are worn by the patient and clinician during treatment. Adverse effects of ultraviolet treatment in wound care have not been reported.

    There are few contraindications to Ultrasound. Malignant wounds are not treated with ultrasound. Physiotherapy Canada has published an excellent article that provides the research and rationale for conditions that should be considered when selecting ultrasound treatment for wounds.

  • Frequently Asked Questions