Introducing Photobiomodulation for AMD
We are pleased to announce the availability of a new treatment option for patients with intermediate non-exudative (dry) age-related macular degeneration (AMD) at North Bay Vitreoretinal Consultants. We are now offering Valeda photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy, a non-invasive treatment designed to slow disease progression and improve retinal function in patients with dry AMD. The Valeda device achieved FDA approval in November of 2024.
Valeda Photobiomodulation Therapy: A Novel Approach to Managing Dry AMD
Intermediate non-exudative (dry) AMD remains a challenging condition with few therapeutic options available to preserve vision and delay progression to advanced AMD. The Valeda PBM device uses specific wavelengths of light thought to stimulate cellular function, enhance mitochondrial activity, and improve retinal metabolism. Studies have shown that PBM therapy can lead to improved visual function, contrast sensitivity, and retinal sensitivity, offering a much-needed non-invasive treatment avenue for our patients.
Who Are Ideal Candidates?
We encourage referrals from your general ophthalmologist of patients with intermediate dry AMD, particularly those with:
- Drusen without central atrophy
- Mild to moderate functional impairment
- Progressive disease with increasing drusen burden
Patients with advanced geographic atrophy or neovascular AMD are not currently candidates for this therapy, as they were excluded from pre-approval studies. It is not inconceivable that additional studies will show benefit for these more advanced groups. Benefit is also hypothesized for diabetic retinopathy and retinal vascular occlusion, but clinical trial data is lacking.
Treatment Protocol
The Valeda PBM treatment consists of three sessions per week for three consecutive weeks (a total of nine treatments). Each session is painless, non-invasive, and takes only a few minutes to perform. No dilation is necessary. The treatment is designed to be repeated periodically (typically every four months) based on disease progression and patient response.
Cost and Accessibility
At North Bay Vitreoretinal Consultants, we are committed to making this therapy as accessible as possible. Because photobiomodulation is currently not covered by insurance, we have set pricing to be the lowest in California to ensure affordability. We understand the financial burden that many patients face, and we are dedicated to keeping costs manageable while maintaining the highest standard of care.
If you are a patient with intermediate dry AMD and would like more information regarding this treatment, please contact our office for a consultation to determine if you are a candidate for Valeda PBM therapy.
What’s New
Seeing Clearly: Age-Related Macular Degeneration — Recent Advances and Hope for the Future
By Stephen Meffert MD, FASRS
Read the article (PDF)
Explore more updates on our What’s New page.
For the latest eye research and clinical trials, visit the National Eye Institute.