Valeda Photobiomodulation for Dry AMD

Patient information
Valeda Photobiomodulation for Dry AMD

Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a form of light therapy showing promise in the control of dry Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD). Recent trial data has suggested a beneficial effect in patients with certain dry age related macular changes. The main data coming from the LIGHTSITE III trial using the Valeda light delivery system.

Dry AMD has otherwise remained frustratingly resistant to treatment in spite of extensive research. Nutritional supplements have offered only marginal benefit, and anti-complement injections are yet to be approved for use in the UK.

Light therapy, primarily red and infrared, has shown some benefit in numerous conditions throughout the body. The science of PBM is developing rapidly, with research showing potential short-term results in the earlier stages of dry AMD. This works best for those with drusen (yellowish blobs beneath the retina) rather than atrophy (loss of tissue).

PBM IS THOUGHT TO WORK IN A NUMBER OF WAYS:

Improving blood flow to the retina and its supporting layers
Stimulating nitric oxide, a chemical important to the health of blood vessels
Activating mitochondria, the tiny particles within cells that produce energy,
via cytochrome c oxidase

Ideal patients are those showing signs of early dry AMD (the grades currently considered suitable for nutritional supplements), and a visual acuity of 6/36 or better.

A treatment course consists of nine sessions over a three-week period, each of which lasts just a few minutes. Three separate colours are used with no discomfort or potential side effects for the patient. Therapy can be offered to one or both eyes, depending on clinical findings and patient preference.

Valeda uses three specific wavelengths: 590, 660 and 850 nm. Each has a specific role in the cells they target.

They are:

590 nm inhibits vascular endothelial growth factor expression and removes cellular deposits.
660 nm promotes oxygen binding and stimulates adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which inhibits inflammation and cellular loss.
850 nm stimulates metabolic activity as well as ATP, inhibits inflammation cellular loss and drives electron transfer.

FIRST APPROVED TREATMENT FOR DRY AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION (AMD) USING PHOTOBIOMODULATION

Initial studies have shown a significant effect with a benefit maintained over 2 years

Further clinical trials are in progress but, given the evidence to date, and the lack of any other effective treatment, this minimally invasive and very low-risk treatment appeals to some sufferers

POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF PBM TREATMENT:

Slow the degeneration of dry AMD

Stabilise or improve vision

Reduce the risk of progression to wet AMD

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Thanks to you and your wonderful team at King Edward VII Hospital, I woke up this morning with perfect eyesight – for the first time in years.
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Mr Tanner took time to explain what was a routine operation for him but a little scary for me. I was very reassured and delighted with the outcome, thank you so much Mr Tanner and team

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Mr Tanner was friendly and courteous throughout. It transpired he was at medical school with one of my sons, which was a bonus. He is in my opinion at the peak of his surgical career. Very experienced and therefore very competent

The treatment from Mr Tanner was excellent.

He is a courteous and highly skilled professional.

Mr Tanner gave clear advice …..The operation went smoothly and was much less trouble than I imagined. The vision the eye that was operated on is very good

I would have no hesitation in recommending Mr Tanner. The results of research and discussions with Bupa and my GP were amply rewarded with the treatment….. I have now seen Mr Tanner pre-op, op, and post-op and can confirm that his care and treatment has been excellent throughout

Talking to Mr Tanner was like discussing my treatment with a friend

Just a short note to express my delight at the substantial improvement following the treatment on the 28th, much better than I envisaged.

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