Developing Photobiomodulation Program for a Pediatric Oncology Hospital-Developing a Photobiomodulation Program for a Pediatric Oncology Hospital

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Video Summary

Belinda Mandrell, Director of Nursing Research at St. Jude, described how her team implemented photobiomodulation (PBM, or red light therapy) and expanded it into hospital-wide supportive care for pediatric oncology patients. The program began as a clinical trial focused on preventing oral mucositis in bone marrow transplant patients, a painful complication linked to infection, longer hospital stays, increased TPN use, and higher costs.<br /><br />She explained the biological mechanism: PBM targets damaged mitochondria, helping restore ATP production, reduce inflammation, and support cell repair with few side effects. In the study, 40 transplant patients received daily oral PBM starting with conditioning chemotherapy and continuing through engraftment. Treatments were delivered using external, intraoral, and dental probes, with each site treated for one minute.<br /><br />Results showed high feasibility, fewer days of hospitalization, and reduced severity and duration of mucositis compared with matched controls. Based on these outcomes, the program was expanded into clinical practice across five units, including transplant, leukemia/lymphoma, solid tumor/neuro-oncology, radiation therapy, and outpatient care.<br /><br />Mandrell also highlighted use in radiation dermatitis, diaper dermatitis, wound healing, and potentially neuropathy. She emphasized the importance of nursing leadership, standardized training, administrative buy-in, and a dedicated PBM nurse.

Keywords

photobiomodulation

red light therapy

pediatric oncology

oral mucositis

bone marrow transplant

supportive care

mitochondrial repair

radiation dermatitis

nursing leadership