Real-World Experience With Valeda^TM Photobiomodulation

When I first started using the Valeda^TM Photobiomodulation (PBM; Alcon), I assumed that patients would show functional improvement after the first cycle of treatment. I learned through experience, however, that results may take time to become apparent; and thus, it is important to manage patients’ expectations and to encourage them to be compliant with the treatment protocol. Over the past 4 years, I have treated over 250 eyes of 140 patients. In that time, my perspective on the treatment of dry AMD with Valeda^TM PBM has shifted to a place of optimism. Not only have my patients given me positive feedback, many of them also reported improvements in visual acuity. In my experience, some patients have even demonstrated improvements in anatomical outcomes (eg, reductions in drusen volume). I look forward to larger trials conducted in real-world settings to help determine whether and how much patients benefit from this treatment.