The podiatry practice of Mark E. Spier, DPM, announced today that the PinPointe FootLaser has received clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of nail fungus (onychomycosis). Dr. Spier is the first certified provider of the treatment in the Baltimore area.
"Toenail fungus, a condition that affects more than 35 million Americans, is both easily spread and exceptionally durable, often standing up against the most aggressive anti-fungal pills," said Dr. Spier. "With FDA clearance of the PinPointe FootLaser, patients have a relatively painless, important new treatment option. It is often more successful than topically applied anti-fungal drugs, has less side effects than oral medication, and is less painful than surgical removal of the nail."
Fungal nail infection is caused by fungus under the nail. As they grow, fungi feed on keratin, the tough protein that makes up the hard surface of the nails. The nail becomes darker in color and debris may accumulate under the nail. Nail infection can cause nails to be discolored, thickened, brittle, and 'crumbly' and in some people it can interfere with wearing shoes and/or cause pain when walking.
The treatment of nail infection is difficult because the infection is under and inside of the nail, making it hard for any treatment to reach and destroy the infection. Some people are treated with medicated nail polish or oral medications, which can be associated with side effects and serious drug interactions. Another option is to surgically remove the nail.
About the PinPointe FootLaser -The PinPointe FootLaser is a patented laser device that has been showed in clinical studies to significantly reduce nail infection. The patented PinPointe FootLaser is a specially designed laser beam that goes through the nail and safely reduces the infection in the nail bed that cause onychomycosis. It is FDA cleared and backed by significant clinical research.
The procedure requires one or a small number of safe, quick treatments with little or no discomfort and is performed as an outpatient service with no anesthesia. The gentle laser light beam has no effect on healthy tissue and treats only the infected area. No drugs or topical ointments are used, eliminating the total-body side effects of traditional oral medications.
About Dr. Mark E. Spier -With 25 years of experience, Dr. Mark E. Spier serves the Baltimore Metropolitan area for all of its podiatry needs. His practice offers care for the full range of foot ailments from fractures to corns. Dr. Spier is certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery in forefoot and reconstructive surgery. Visit www.spierfoot.com for more information.
PinPointe and FootLaser are trademarks of PinPointe USA, Inc.
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