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Things to Consider when Purchasing a Unit
What
is the Wavelength and is it right for me?
Hundreds of clinical studies have evaluated the effects of therapeutic
light devices at various wavelengths and have found the most successful
range between 600 and 900 nm. The wavelength of your laser or phototherapy
device is quite important and will have an effect on your treatment
outcomes. The smaller the wavelength, the more shallow the penetration
(e.g. 830nm will penetrate deeper than 660nm). So, if you are looking
for a unit designed primarily for wound healing, you would want a
smaller wavelength whereas to penetrate into muscle, you would be
looking at larger wavelengths. Along with wavelength, the dose, treatment
location and power are very important for ideal treatment outcomes.
What Power should my laser have and are higher powered lasers better?
The power of the device, as well as the wavelength and dose are all
important to achieving optimal treatment outcomes. However, it is
important to remember that higher powered devices does not mean better
therapy, and in fact can be inhibitory in many situations.
Is a Laser better than an SLD?
There are a few differences between a Laser and a Superluminous Diode
(SLD). A laser is monochromatic (produce light at one wavelength)
and coherent. An SLD has a band of wavelengths and non-coherent. Research
has indicated, however, that light is light. By the time light has
entered the cell, the coherence is gone and the light source is unimportant.
There are situations where a laser may be more effective than an SLD,
both effective treatment outcomes will be obtained by both types of
devices. Treatment outcomes are mainly dependent on wavelength and
dose, not the light source.
Training & Support
Your laser is only as good as the training and support you receive.
A laser that isn’t used properly is virtually an expensive door
stop. It is important that you receive the proper training on the
unit and are using the right dose and treatment applications. Though
there are no side effects when using laser therapy, it is important
to be using the correct dose to maximize treatment results
Warranty
The terms of the warranty, potential costs associated with servicing
and having a loaner unit to use while yours is being repaired are
all important aspects to consider during purchase. Therapeutic light
devices will quickly become a primary treatment modality in your practice
or clinic so ensure you will be taken care of should any repairs need
to be done.
What are the intended uses?
There isn’t a laser or light device that is designed for every
profession. Make sure that the unit you are purchasing has the components
that will make it an asset for your practice instead of an additional
stress.
Can I get a return on my investment?
With any treatment modality, you as a clinician need to make money
for your treatments as well as providing the very best care for your
patients. There are different ways to get a return on your investment
depending on what profession you are in. In some professions, there
are codes covered by insurance whereas in others, you will be looking
at a direct charge to the patient. If you have any questions about
a return on investment, be sure to talk to your sales representative
so when the time comes that you are ready to purchase a phototherapy
system, you can go forward as effectively as possible.
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