The new, safe and effective way to treat Fungal Nail Infection (Onychomycosis).
PACT is an abbreviation and scientific term that stands for Photodynamic Antimicrobial Therapy. This treatment for fungal nails has been used effectively in medicine since the 1990s for the treatment of tumours, skin diseases and wound infections.
The fungal cells, unlike human cells, possess a cell wall. This cell wall is stained with a special photosensitizing gel dye that is harmless to human cells but selectively makes fungi sensitive to a specific wavelength of light which means the bacteria and nail fungus is destroyed.
This treatment for fungal nails is safe, highly effective and does not require a GP referral for We Fix Feet to carry out the PACT treatment. PACT is also safe and effective for use on patients with Diabetes.
What happens during a treatment?
Before the light therapy can be used, a thickened nail needs to be thinned to ensure the fungus is penetrated within the nail. This painless procedure takes only a few minutes per nail. A special photosensitising blue gel dye is then applied to the fungal nail and left on for a minimum of 10 minutes. The light therapy is then applied to the nail for 9.5 minutes for each nail being treated.
Is it Safe?
PACT Therapy does not use drugs, acids, lasers and is a very safe and effective treatment. As such, it can be used on patients with Diabetes. Following the PACT Therapy session, the nail will retain a blue discolouration. However, this will soon disappear after treatment, but in rare cases, may remain for up to one week.
How Long Until it Works?
The sessions are short and effective. However waiting for the new, healthy nail to grow takes a few months. As everyone’s nails grow at a slightly different rate, new nail growth is evident at between 3 and 6 months.
Preventing Re-infection
Preventing re-infection is important to have a positive outcome. Socks & hosiery should be washed on a hot (60°) cycle. Shoes should be treated with antifungal preparation. Fungal skin infection (Athlete’s Foot) should also be treated. Consult with your Foot Health Professional at We Fix Feet for advice.