Age-related Macular Degeneration
AMD is the leading cause of irreversible blindness in the developed world
Understanding AMD
This groundbreaking technology represents a promising solution to slow down the progression of dAMD.
From the front to the back of the eye, an all-in-one powerhouse for eye care.
dAMD stands for “dry age-related macular degeneration,” which is a form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). It is also known as the atrophic or non-exudative form of AMD. dAMD progresses more slowly than the wet (or neovascular) form of AMD and is characterised by the gradual thinning and breakdown of the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision. As a result, people with dAMD experience a slow loss of vision, particularly in the central visual field, although it usually doesn’t lead to complete blindness.
Dry AMD accounts for the majority of AMD cases, approximately 90%. The condition typically progresses through three stages: early, intermediate, and advanced, with vision loss becoming more severe in the later stages.
280+
Million People
Will be Affected by 2040
Dry AMD is a degenerative condition with no cure but it can be slowed down ...
This is a breakthrough therapy treatment for drusen and dry Age-related Macular Degeneration. Using advanced photobiomodulation technology it revitalises retinal cells which slows disease progression and preserves vision.
Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a light energy-based technology that stimulates cellular repair and regeneration, offering a promising avenue for dry AMD treatment, especially for AMD stages in the AREDS 3 and lower classifications.
The AMD stages:
1
No AMD (Normal)
At this stage, there are no signs of AMD. The retina looks healthy, and the person has normal vision.
2
Early AMD
● What’s happening? Small yellowish spots (called drusen) start to form under the retina. These drusen are waste products that build up, but they are small
● Vision impact? Usually, there are no noticeable symptoms at this stage. People don’t typically experience vision problems.
3
Intermediate AMD
● What’s happening? The drusen have become larger, and there may be more of them. The macula might also show some pigment changes.
● Vision impact? Some people may start to notice mild blurriness, especially in low-light conditions or when reading.
4
Advanced dry AMD (Late AMD)
Dry AMD (Geographic Atrophy): The cells in the macula begin to break down, leading to the gradual loss of central vision.
● Vision impact? People with advanced AMD may have noticeable blind spots in their central vision, making it hard to read, drive, or recognise faces.
How photobiomodulation works
Stimulation of Mitochondrial Activity
Light Penetration: The device emits light at targeted wavelengths—red, yellow, and near-infrared—that penetrate the retinal tissues.
Mitochondrial Absorption: These wavelengths are absorbed by the mitochondria, the energy-producing structures in cells, which are particularly abundant in retinal cells. This absorption boosts the mitochondria’s capacity to generate adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the cell’s primary energy source.
Reduction of Oxidative Stress
Counteracting Free Radicals: By increasing ATP production, cells become more efficient in combating free radicals—unstable molecules that cause oxidative stress and contribute to cell damage, a critical factor in the development of AMD.
Strengthening Antioxidant Defenses: Photobiomodulation (PBM) promotes the cells’ ability to generate antioxidants, which helps protect against further oxidative stress and cellular damage.
Cellular Repairs
Enhanced Cellular Repair: Photobiomodulation (PBM) stimulates cellular repair processes, helping damaged cells recover and function more efficiently. This is vital for preserving the health of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells and photoreceptors, both critical for maintaining vision.
Restoring Normal Function: By supporting the health and performance of RPE cells, PBM aids in preserving retinal integrity and slowing further degeneration.
Anti-inflammatory Effects
Minimising Inflammation: Light therapy works to decrease inflammation in the retinal tissues. Persistent inflammation is a key factor in the advancement of AMD, causing further tissue damage and cell loss.
Reduction in Drusen Accumulation
Eliminating Cellular Waste: Drusen, which are deposits of cellular waste beneath the retina, are a key indicator of dry AMD. PBM supports the removal of these deposits, helping to preserve retinal health.
Inhibiting New Deposits: The therapy also plays a role in preventing the formation of additional drusen, slowing the progression of the disease.
The Treatment Process
An initial comprehensive eye examination will take place before treatment commences. At this appointment in depth scans will be taken of your eyes including OCT and Optos scans. This will allow the Optometrist to achieve baseline measurements and assess the overall health of the retina.
The treatment typically takes places over a few sessions where you will wear a light therapy mask.
Initial treatment: involves 7-8 sessions which are 3-4 days apart.
- Phase 1 – wearing the LLM® LLLT yellow mask for 6 minutes.
- Phase 2 – wearing the LLM® LLLT red mask for 6 minutes.
After 4- 6 months a maintenance cycle can be performed consisting of 6 sessions, also spaced 3-4 days apart.
Expected Results
LLM® LLLT technology aims to slow down the progression of dry AMD and improve the quality of life. It has been proven it can:
- Reduce central drusen volume
- Improve vision
- Improve contract sensitivity
