Valeda Light Delivery Therapy at WKI: Advancing Care Pathways for Dry AMD
Dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) continues to challenge both clinicians and patients, with limited tools available to meaningfully support retinal health in early and intermediate stages. At Wagner Kapoor Institute (WKI), we’ve introduced Valeda Light Delivery Therapy, the first FDA-cleared photobiomodulation (PBM) platform for dry AMD, to provide a proactive treatment option that aligns with our commitment to early intervention and functional preservation.
Mechanism of Action: Targeted Photobiomodulation
Valeda utilizes a proprietary blend of near-infrared, red, and yellow wavelengths to stimulate mitochondrial activity, enhance ATP production, and reduce oxidative stress—key drivers of dry AMD pathology. By improving retinal metabolism and reducing inflammation, PBM offers a cellular-level support strategy for patients who otherwise have few therapeutic options.
Clinical Evidence and Outcomes
Randomized controlled studies have demonstrated:
- Gains in best-corrected visual acuity for a subset of patients
- Improved contrast sensitivity
- Reduction in central drusen volume
- Enhanced structural and functional retinal parameters
Valeda is non-invasive, requires no dilation, and offers cumulative benefit through a series of short, staff-driven sessions.
Patient Selection at WKI
At WKI, we recommend Valeda for:
- Patients with intermediate dry AMD
- Those experiencing functional decline not fully explained by OCT anatomy
- Patients seeking an evidence-based adjunct to AREDS2 supplementation
- Individuals interested in proactive intervention to support long-term retinal function
Valeda is not indicated for neovascular AMD or advanced geographic atrophy, though research is ongoing.
Seamless Clinical Integration
WKI has incorporated Valeda into our dry AMD care model with strong patient satisfaction. Each treatment lasts approximately 4–5 minutes per eye.
WKI is proud to offer this technology as part of our continued mission to deliver forward-thinking retinal care.
