Onychomycosis is a chronic fungal nail infection leading to increasingly thickened, discolored and disfigured toenails. Fungal toenails can be unsightly, embarrassing and are often painful. The infection has been notoriously difficult to eradicate and there is no perfect cure. The condition is very common, eventually affecting most adults; onychomycosis is estimated to affect up to 35 million Americans. The most common infecting fungal organism is trichophyton rubrum, a dermatophyte.
Previously available treatment options were either limited in effectiveness or potentially problematic. Topical antifungal applications and medicated lacquers alone rarely clear the nail infection. They simply fail to penetrate into and under the nail plate to kill the infecting fungus. Oral antifungal medications have proven to be more effective than topicals but may be associated with side effects or drug interactions and simply are not safe for patients with a history of, or concern for, liver or kidney problems. Recurrence of onychomycosis is common, fungal toenails have been very difficult to clear up.
The Pinpointe FootLaser treatment now offers new hope for nail fungus sufferers. High-energy laser light pulses pass through the nail and kill the fungus where it lives, in and under the nail, without causing damage to the nail or surrounding skin. This in-office treatment is safe and effective, has no harmful side effects, is usually pain-free and typically requires only a single 30-45 minute session. Clinical studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of the procedure for the majority of patients treated, increasing clearing of toenails in more than 71% of those patients. With simple home after-care this clearing can be maintained. Clinical studies began in November, 2007.
On October 15, 2010 after years of clinical study and worldwide use, the Pinpointe FootLaser received FDA clearance for temporary increase of clear nail in patients with onychomycosis. The clearance states temporary because there is no absolute lifelong cure. That is accepted to be true with all treatment options. The opportunistic fungal pathogens exist worldwide and reinfection can occur. The realistic goal must be to clear the existing disfigured toenail and then take definite steps to prevent reinfection. This can be a simple regimen including regular application of topical antifungals and disinfecting the shoes which can harbor infecting pathogens. Proper hygiene and daily foot care in combination with the Pinpointe FootLaser treatment can finally make sustained clear toenails a reality.
Glacier Foot and Ankle is now able to offer this new treatment option to patients suffering from onychomycosis. Dr. Ploot is the only Pinpointe certified provider in Montana. Call 755-1300 to schedule a consultation. Insurance does not cover the procedure. For more information see www.nuvolase.com. Let us help you to clear those fungal toenails.
