Photodynamic Laser Therapy

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is used for the treatment of tumors and infections.

The therapy relies on the targeted activation of a photosensitizing agent administered intravenously, via local injection, or topically. After selective accumulation in pathological tissue, the area is irradiated with light at a specific wavelength.

Phototoxic mechanisms, primarily through the generation of reactive oxygen species, effectively destroy diseased cells while sparing the surrounding healthy tissue.

The following photosensitizers are available:
• Riboflavin
• Hypericin
• Chlorin E6
• Indocyanine Green (ICG)
• Curcumin
• 5-ALA (5-Aminolevulinic Acid)

Feel free to contact us if you would like to request infusions.

Since disease progression in this area is highly individual, treatment plans are tailored accordingly.

The duration, number, and frequency of sessions are determined based on the patient’s personal situation.

Indications

aPDT: Innovative approaches for combating infections

Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) offers an effective approach to managing bacterial, viral, parasitic, and fungal infections. A major advantage of this treatment is its effectiveness against multi-resistant pathogens.

Which wavelengths are used in photodynamic laser therapy?

In photodynamic therapy (PDT), the choice of photosensitizer determines the appropriate wavelength or laser color. For example, curcumin exclusively absorbs light in the blue spectrum, while indocyanine green (ICG) responds to light in the infrared range. Accordingly, the following wavelengths are selected for the photosensitizers listed above:

Ultraviolet

370
nm

Blue

405/447
nm

Yellow

589
nm

Red

635/658
nm

Infrared

810
nm

Ultraviolet

370
nm

Blue

405/447
nm

Yellow

589
nm

Red

635/658
nm

Infrared

810
nm

Integrating sonodynamic therapy

Photosensitizers used in photodynamic therapy (PDT) can also be activated by ultrasound waves. These waves induce cavitation effects in the tissue, increasing cell membrane permeability and thereby potentially enhancing the therapeutic outcome. Find suitable devices for therapeutic ultrasound applications here.

Accessories

In intravenous PDT, the Weberneedle^® Y-cannula allows simultaneous administration of laser light and photosensitizer through a single puncture. For interstitial PDT, the Weberneedle^® Lasercath with a puncture cannula is utilized. For treatment of superficial tissues, the combination of the Weberneedle^® Butterfly and the Weberneedle^® Lasercath provides a convenient alternative.