Photodynamic Therapy (PACT) For Fungal Nails
Fungal infections of the nail affects many Australian’s. It can be frustrating constantly applying antifungal nail lacquers which only provide limited success. Oral medication can be quite successful but can have adverse affects on the liver and interact with other medications.
At Taylors Lakes Podiatry Clinic we offer a safe and effective alternative ... Photodynamic Therapy!
How does Photodynamic therapy work?
Photodynamic Therapy (PACT) involves the use of photochemical reactions between a photosensitive agent (PACT gel), light of specific wavelength and oxygen to cause fungal cell death.
Fungal cells possess cell walls. Human tissue cells do not have cell walls and possess cell membranes. The dye within the PACT gel selectivity targets the fungal cell walls making them sensitive to the PACT light. Upon exposure of the PACT light the walls of the fungal cells are destroyed resulting in fungal cell death. This reaction does not cause any harm to the healthy surrounding tissue.
What does fungal nail treatment with PACT involve?
Your podiatrist will reduce the thickness of the infected fungal nail using a special instrument. A special PACT nail fungus gel is then applied to the nail and left to absorb for 10 minutes. This gel binds to the fungal cells making them sensitive to the light emitted by the PACT LED lamp. The PACT LED light is then applied for 9.5 minutes penetrating the nail and destroying the fungal cells. Your podiatrist may give you a strong concentration of urea to use between treatments to soften your nail if required.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of PACT treatments required will depend on the severity of your fungal infection. Your podiatrist will grade the severity of your nail fungus infection before commencing treatment.
As a guide we recommend:
Mild to Moderate:
3 initial sessions in a 1 – 2 week period
1 follow up session at 2 weeks month
3 - 6 x 1 month repeat sessions
Severe:
3 initial sessions in a 1 – 2 week period
1 follow up session at 2 weeks
11 x 1 month repeat sessions
How much does PACT cost?
The cost per treatment depends on the number of infected fungal nails to be treated. PACT treatment costs are charged as a long consultation fee of $95 plus $9 per toe. For pension or health care card holders the cost is $85 plus $9 per toe.
Can I use my private health cover?
Yes, if you have podiatry cover.
For further information please call the clinic on (03) 7046 1800 and talk to one of our podiatrists.