Low-level light therapy reduces platelet destruction during extracorporeal circulation

Extracorporeal circulation causes many deleterious effects on blood cells. Low-level light therapy (LLLT) in the red/near-infrared spectral range is known for its cytoprotective properties but its use during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) has not yet been studied. We aimed to assess whether LLLT protects platelets during CPB. 24 pigs were connected to 1-hour-CPB and observed for the next 23 hours. In 12 animals, blood circulating through the oxygenator was treated with LLLT. Platelet count and function were monitored throughout the experiment. The decrease in platelet count was greater in the control group, especially during CPB and after 24 hours. In LLLT group CD62P expression remained quite stable up to the 12th hour of the experiment, whereas in the control group it continuously decreased till the end of observation. Platelets in the control group were more prone to aggregation in the postoperative period than at the beginning of the experiment, whereas platelets in the LLLT group aggregated similarly or less intense. Limitation of platelet loss, pattern of aggregation and CD62P expression suggest that LLLT may stabilize platelet function during CPB and diminish the negative effects associated with the interaction of cells with an artificial surface.