For decades, we at Lakes Region Retina have met with patients and eye care providers who managed early-to-intermediate Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) through a strategy of watchful waiting, dietary adjustments, and nutritional supplements. While medical options emerged for Wet AMD (a more advanced stages of the disease), earlier stages of Dry AMD lacked a targeted clinical intervention.
However, this has now changed and our clinic has introduced the Valeda® Light Delivery System at our medical facility in Baxter, Minnesota. Led by our board-certified retina specialist Dr. David Williams, our team is proud to provide the first and only FDA-approved treatment for early-to-intermediate Dry AMD.
Understanding the Mechanism: What is Photobiomodulation?
Photobiomodulation (PBM)—a non-invasive multiwavelength light therapy—utilizes specific wavelengths of visible and near-infrared light to stimulate metabolic activity at a cellular level. Unlike structural or thermal ophthalmic lasers that cut or scar, the Valeda system relies on safely configured, non-coherent Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). This allows us to target retinal layers without generating destructive heat or tissue damage.
This therapy targets the mitochondria within retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells. In Dry AMD, mitochondrial dysfunction leads to energy deficits, metabolic waste accumulation, and gradual cell deterioration. The multi-wavelength approach of our Valeda system counteracts this decline through three mechanisms:
- Cellular Energy Production: Light is absorbed by respiratory enzymes within the cells, accelerating the synthesis of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP).
- Reduction of Oxidative Stress: Enhanced metabolic efficiency helps downregulate chronic, local inflammatory pathways that damage tissue.
- Hemodynamic Support: Treatment improves microvascular blood flow and oxygen delivery to meet the high metabolic demands of the macula.
Clinical Efficacy and Safety Profile
Authorized by the FDA via the De Novo pathway, the Valeda system’s efficacy is grounded in rigorous clinical data, notably the LIGHTSITE III trial. Data demonstrated that a significant percentage of patients achieved measurable improvements in Best-Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA), equivalent to gaining a full line or more on a standard eye chart.
What You Can Expect During the Treatment Protocol
- The Schedule: A complete treatment round consists of 9 brief sessions typically administered 2-3 times per week over a 3-to-5-week window.
- The Experience: You will sit comfortably in front of the device. The Eye(s) that meet treatment criteria are sequentially exposed to the therapeutic light for just a few minutes per session.
- The Recovery: The procedure requires no dilation, no needles, and no medication. It carries zero downtime, allowing you to drive and resume normal activities immediately after your session with us.
Real Patient Outcomes
To see the clinical impact of PBM on everyday functionality and visual endurance, view this Valeda patient testimonial:
If you want to protect your vision as a Dry AMD patient or learn more about scheduling an initial assessment, please call our office or visit our Contact and Scheduling Page to secure a time with our team.
Related FAQs:
No. We use low-power, non-coherent Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) rather than focused, thermal laser beams. It does not burn, cut, or scar retinal tissue; it transfers light energy safely to cellular receptors.
The technology is specifically FDA-approved for individuals diagnosed with early-to-intermediate Dry AMD. We use it to preserve and revitalize cells before advanced geographic atrophy or wet AMD transitions occur.
Because Dry AMD is a chronic, progressive condition, cellular degradation naturally resumes over time. Repeating the 9-session cycles over an extended care plan helps us sustain the metabolic improvements achieved by your retina.
Yes. PBM acts via a distinct metabolic pathway and does not replace nutritional supplements. It serves as a complementary medical therapy alongside standard-of-care vitamins and our routine retinal monitoring.
Primary eye care providers can seamlessly refer candidates via our secure Lakes Region Retina Referral Portal. Dr. Williams co-manages closely with referring doctors, providing detailed updates and returning patients to their primary clinics for routine care.