PACT Fungal Nail Treatment
Highly Effective Fungal Nail treatment
PACT Fungal Nail Treatment
Fungal nail infections, also known as onychomycosis, can be challenging to treat with conventional methods like oral medications and topical creams. PACT (Photodynamic Antimicrobial Therapy) offers an advanced, non-invasive solution that effectively targets the fungus causing the infection without harming the surrounding tissue.
What Is PACT?
PACT Stands for Photodynamic Antimicrobial Therapy. It is a modern treatment method that uses a combination of a special light-sensitive gel and a specific wavelength of light to eradicate fungal infections. The PACT system targets the fungal cells, breaking down their structure and stopping the infection from spreading.
Light-Sensitive Gel: The treatment begins by applying a gel to the affected nail. This gel contains a photosensitizing agent that selectively binds to the fungal cells.
Targeted Light Application: After the gel has been absorbed, a specialized light source is applied to the nail. The light activates the photosensitizing agent, producing reactive oxygen species that destroy the fungal cell
The Benefits Of PACT
PACT therapy is an attractive option for patients seeking an alternative to traditional treatments. Some key benefits include:
Non-Invasive and Painless: PACT therapy is a gentle treatment that does not involve surgery or cause discomfort.
Highly Effective: Clinical studies have shown high success rates in treating fungal infections, even those resistant to other treatments.
No Systemic Side Effects: Unlike oral antifungal medications, PACT therapy does not pose risks to your liver or other organs.
Fast Treatment Time: The treatment is quick, typically requiring only a few sessions to achieve noticeable results.
PACT Therapy Treatment Process
Initial Consultation and Assessment
Before beginning PACT therapy, our podiatrist will perform a thorough assessment of the affected nails. This includes a detailed medical history review, physical examination of the fungal infection, and possible testing to confirm the diagnosis of fungal nail infection (onychomycosis).
Treatment Frequency
PACT therapy typically requires 3 sessions, scheduled 7-10 days apart. Depending on the severity of the fungal infection and the number of nails affected, additional treatments may be required. After the initial set of treatments, follow-up appointments may be scheduled monthly for 3-6 months to monitor nail growth and prevent reinfection.
Procedure Overview
- Preparation: The nail is cleaned and debrided to remove any loose or damaged tissue. This step allows the PACT light to penetrate deeper into the nail bed and be more effective.
- Application of Photosensitizer Gel: A special gel, which reacts to light, is applied to the affected nails. The gel helps target the fungal cells and ensures the light therapy is focused only on the infection.
- PACT Light Activation: A PACT light source emitting a specific wavelength of ultraviolet light is directed at the treated nail for 9-10 minutes. The light activates the photosensitizer, destroying the fungal cells while leaving the surrounding tissue unharmed.
- Post-Treatment Guidance: After the session, patients can resume regular activities immediately. No bandages or wound care are required, and there’s no discomfort during or after the treatment. However, patients are advised to maintain proper nail hygiene and avoid exposure to environments that could lead to reinfection.
Post-Treatment Care
Since PACT therapy kills the fungus at the cellular level without damaging healthy tissues, the treatment area requires no special care. Patients are encouraged to use antifungal sprays or powders in their shoes and socks to prevent reinfection. Nail regrowth occurs over several months, so the results of the therapy will become visible as the healthy nail grows out.
Monitoring Progress
Follow-up appointments are essential to assess the progress of nail regrowth. In some cases, additional sessions may be necessary if the infection is not completely cleared. Our podiatrists will provide customized recommendations to prevent fungal recurrence.
Expected Results and Recovery
Although fungal infections can be stubborn and require multiple treatments, many patients see improvement within a few months. The healthy nail will slowly grow out, replacing the infected nail. The final result may take 6-12 months, depending on the nail’s growth rate.
Is PACT Therapy Right For You?
If you’re tired of topical treatments that don’t work or want to avoid the side effects of oral antifungal medications, PACT Photodynamic Therapy offers a safe, effective alternative. With no pain or downtime, it’s a suitable option for patients looking for a non-invasive solution to fungal nail infections. Book an appointment with our expert podiatrists to see whether PACT therapy is for you.