Patients Frequently Asked Questions
Patient FAQs
It has been used for over a century in various forms. The history of phototherapy dates back to ancient times, but it became scientifically recognized and more widely used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Historical Background
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Ancient Practices: Ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Greeks, and Indians, used sunlight to treat a variety of ailments. This early form of phototherapy was based on the healing properties of natural sunlight.
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Nobel Prize Recognition: In 1903, Niels Ryberg Finsen was awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine for his pioneering work in the treatment of diseases, especially lupus vulgaris and tuberculosis, with concentrated light radiation, marking the formal recognition of phototherapy in modern medicine.
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Evolution Over Time: Since the 20th century, the methods and equipment used in phototherapy have evolved significantly. Ultraviolet (UV) lamps and later laser technology have allowed for more precise and effective treatments.
Modern Phototherapy
In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, phototherapy has been refined with the development of specific wavelength therapies such as narrowband UVB and targeted laser therapy. These advancements have improved the efficacy and safety of phototherapy for various conditions.
Ongoing Research and Developments
While phototherapy itself is not new, research continues to enhance its application and effectiveness. Studies are exploring new uses, such as treating certain types of cancer, promoting wound healing, and even addressing hair loss. As technology advances, phototherapy is becoming more precise and tailored to individual patient needs.
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Yes, phototherapy is generally considered safe when administered under the guidance of a qualified physician. This treatment has been used effectively for many years to manage various medical conditions. However, like any medical treatment, it carries some risks and potential side effects like sunburn, which are typically minimal when the therapy is correctly applied.
To treat an area that is 500cm² (size of a standard paperback book) at a typical treatment energy level it should take less than 3 minutes.
Typically treatment is administered 2 to 3 times per week.
Typically this varies by disease with estimates as follows...
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Vitiligo
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Several months
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Psoriasis
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Within a few weeks
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Eczema
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Within a few weeks
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Clinician Frequently Asked Questions
Clinician FAQs
Clinician FAQs
Clinician Frequently Asked Questions
Phototherapy treatments are reimbursed by insurance and are billed under the following CPT codes...
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96910 - Photochemotherapy with UVB
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96912 - Photochemotherapy with UVA
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96920 - Excimer Laser - Psoriasis < 250 cm²
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96921 - Excimer Laser - Psoriasis 250-500 cm²
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96922 - Excimer Laser - Psoriasis > 500 cm²
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To date, clients have submitted thousands of claims without any denials to our knowledge.
The use of topical or oral drug treatments with targeted phototherapy should be at the discretion of the treating clinician including the usage of Psoralens.
No, the Enhanced Aurora is specifically engineered to function without the need for regular maintenance. In addition it also comes with an all-inclusive 5 year warranty.
No, treatments can be performed by any individual specifically trained in the safe use of the equipment, allowing doctors to remain unburdened by treatment sessions.
UVA serves as an invaluable addition to NB-UVB for treating particularly thick psoriatic plaques or resistant cases of vitiligo, helping patients achieve their desired outcomes. Along with NB-UVB, UVA is a critical tool that enables clinicians to attain optimal clinical results. The Enhanced Aurora is currently the only device on the market with both wavelengths in a single device.
No, all revenue generated goes directly to the facility or physician.