Wound management with whirlpool and infrared cold laser treatment. A clinical report.

Patients with open wounds are frequently referred to physical therapy for wound cleansing and enhancement of the healing process. The healing process in most open wounds, however, is very slow, especially in patients with diabetes mellitus and vascular insufficiency. The purpose of this clinical report is to describe a sterile whirlpool and cold laser treatment protocol used in one physical therapy department for patients with open wounds. The two patients described in this clinical report received infrared cold laser treatment and conventional sterile whirlpool baths with povidone-iodine solution. Clinical results showed well-granulated tissue and nearly complete healing of the open wounds in these two patients.