Low-intensity laser light-induced closure of a chronic wound in a dog

Objective-To describe the application of low-intensity laser light for treatment of a chronic, full-thickness skin wound in a dog. Study Design-Case report. Animals-An 8-year old, castrated Whippet. Methods-The wound was irradiated on the awake patient with 630 nM wavelength, nonthermal red light once daily for 4 consecutive days. Changes in wound surface area were measured by computer analysis of digital images of the wound. Results-The wound diminished in size during the course of laser treatments and was completely healed by day 21. No post-treatment complications occurred. Conclusions-Low-intensity laser light may be useful for treatment of chronic skin wounds in dogs. (C)Copyright 1999 by The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.