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Cold Laser For Knee InjuriesDate: Wednesday, December 12, 2012Time: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM ESTBelow are a few items that will be covered in the Webinar:Learn How Laser Therapy Can Heal Knee Injuries including OA, Meniscus Tears, and Patellofemoral Syndrome.Select Optimal Laser Settings to Treat Knee Joint Injuries.Review Current Research on Laser For Knee Pain.
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limited.
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Regards, The Theralase Team |
Theralase Technologies Inc. designs, develops, manufactures and markets patented, superpulsed laser technology utilized in biostimulation and biodestruction applications. The technology is safe and effective in the treatment of chronic pain, neural muscular-skeletal conditions and wound care. When combined with its patented, light-sensitive Photo Dynamic Compounds, Theralase laser technology is able to specifically target and destroy cancers, bacteria, viruses as well as microbial pathogens.
Thursday, December 6, 2012
Webinar: Cold Laser For Knee Injuries
Friday, November 30, 2012
Theralase Announces 18% Improvement in Profitability in Q3 Financials
Toronto,
Ontario – November 29, 2012 Theralase Technologies Inc. (TSX-V: TLT) announced
today its third quarter 2012 financial results reporting that revenue remained
relatively constant year over year for the three month period ending September
30, 2012 at $437,060, compared to $453,212 for the same period in 2011.
The net loss for the three month period ended September 30, 2012 was
$348,478, which included $71,406 of non-cash expenses (amortization,
stock-based compensation expense, foreign exchange gain/loss and lease
inducements) as compared to a net loss of $423,929 for the same period last
year, demonstrating an improvement of 18% year over year.
Selling expenses decreased for the three month period ending September
30, 2011 to $162,596 compared to $237,409 for the same period the previous
year, a decrease of 31.5%, while maintaining essentially the same revenue. The
decrease in selling expenses and increase in profitability was directly
attributable to efficiencies gained in operations through the elimination of
non-essential sales personnel and a decrease in product advertising costs
associated with their respective territories.
Administrative expenses remained constant at $287,346 for the three
month period ending September 30, 2012 compared to $280,587 for the same period
the previous year, with the minor increase primarily due to stock based
compensation expense.
Research and development costs were $174,841 for the three month period
ending September 30, 2012 compared to $225,439 for the same period in 2011. The
expenditures are primarily due to the commercialization costs associated with
the anticipated launch of the patented TLC-2000 biofeedback therapeutic laser
system, scheduled to be commercially launched in 2013 and costs associated with
the research and development of Theralase’s patented Photo Dynamic Compounds
(PDCs) being developed for the destruction of cancer, viruses and
bacteria.
Roger Dumoulin‐White, President and CEO of Theralase Technologies Inc.
stated, “As Theralase expands its presence internationally and maintains its
established stronghold in the Canadian market, the Company is committed to
bringing its newly designated Therapeutic Laser Therapy (TLT) Division to profitability
in 2013 through the dramatic increase in sales associated with the launch of
the TLC-2000 biofeedback therapeutic laser system in early 2013. The Photo
Dynamic Therapy (PDT) Division; however, will continue to require equity
financings, in order to provide the capital injection required to research and
develop the technology through the FDA Phase 1 human clinical approval process in
2013. By investing in future technology, Theralase will secure the coveted
position of an international leader in both divisions of medical laser technology
for decades to come.”
During the quarter, Theralase announced that it has selected bladder
cancer as the first clinical target in its Novel Photo Dynamic Compound (PDC) research.
Theralase now has a clear direction with which to proceed with FDA clinical trials.
Bladder cancer is the fifth most common cancer in North America being the
fourth most common in men and the eighth most common in woman. In North
America, it is estimated that there will be over 77,000 new cases and over
15,000 deaths annually. With a recurrence rate of nearly 80%, bladder cancer is
the most expensive cancer to treat on a per patient basis; as well, the high
recurrence rate raises many issues affecting quality of life. Theralase plans
to aggressively pursue commercialization of its ground-breaking PDC technology
through the accelerated FDA regulatory approval process. This FDA process is
able to "fast-track" approval when a treatment is shown, through
proven success rate, to have a positive impact on a serious, life-threatening
medical conditions for which no other drug or treatment exists or is as
effective.
In addition, during the quarter, Theralase announced that its
Theralase therapeutic laser system has now been proven clinically effective in
the relief of chronic knee pain and for the treatment of osteoarthritis (OA).
The company commissioned an independent clinical study (blinded, randomised,
controlled clinical study) to clinically evaluate if the Theralase laser system
was safe and effective in reducing chronic knee pain and for the treatment of
osteoarthritis. The results of the clinical study were dramatic and have proven
unequivocally that the Theralase therapeutic laser system is clinically and
statistically effective in reducing pain in these debilitating conditions. The
efficacy of the study was evaluated by the assessment of subject pain levels
via the visual analog scale (VAS) measurement, a validated assessment tool
widely accepted by the medical community, especially, neurology and orthopedic
specialists. The study
has been accepted for publication in an international journal, “Photonics &
Lasers in Medicine” renowned for the communication of high-quality
peer-reviewed research.
The Company also announced during the quarter that it has expanded the
distribution of Theralase products into mainland China by signing an exclusive
distribution agreement with an active, established Chinese medical device
distributor, Chengdu Disi Industrial Co. Ltd. (Chengdu Disi). Under the terms
of an exclusive distribution agreement, Chengdu Disi will market, sell and
provide customer support on Theralase therapeutic lasers to government, public
and private hospitals, in China, training them in the safe and effective
operation of this advanced technology
The complete consolidated financial statements and MD&A for the
three and nine months ending September 30, 2012 can be found at
www.theralase.com and www.sedar.com.
About
Theralase Technologies Inc.:
Theralase Technologies Inc., founded in 1995, designs, develops,
manufactures and markets patented, superpulsed laser technology utilized in
biostimulation and biodestruction applications. Theralase technology is safe
and effective in treating pain, inflammation and for tissue regeneration of
neural muscular skeletal conditions and wound healing in both humans and
animals. Theralase also develops patented Photo Dynamic Compound (PDC)
technology focused at targeting and destroying cancers, bacteria and viruses when
light activated by Theralase’s proprietary and patented laser technologies.
For further information please visit www.theralase.com
, regulatory filings may be viewed by visiting www.sedar.com.
This press release contains forward-looking statements, which reflect
the Company's current expectations regarding future events. The forward-looking
statements involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ
materially from those projected herein. The Company disclaims any obligation to
update these forward-looking statements.
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as
that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchanges) accepts responsibility
for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
For more information, please contact:
Roger Dumoulin-White
President & CEO,
416-629-5356
rwhite@theralase.com
Kristina Hachey
CFO
416-937-7391
khachey@theralase.com
Greg Bewsh
Director of Investor Relations,
647-462-2229
gbewsh@theralase.com
Friday, November 16, 2012
Efficacy of super-pulsed 905 nm Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) in the management of Traumatic Brain Injury
World Journal of Neuroscience, 2012, 2, ***-*** WJNS
Published Online November 2012 (http://www.SciRP.org/journal/wjns/)
Efficacy of super-pulsed 905 nm Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) in the management of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): A case study
William Stephan1, Louis J. Banas1, Matthew Bennett2, Huseyin Tunceroglu3
1William Stephan M.D., Limited Liability Company (LLC), New York, USA
2Bennett Health and Wellness, New York, USA
3University of Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, New York, USA
Email: huseyint@buffalo.edu
ABSTRACT
Traumatic brain injury is a major health concern worldwide with massive financial and social impact. Conventional treatments primarily focus on the pre- vention of further damage to the brain parenchyma, while failing to address the already existent symptoms. Previous clinical studies have shown that Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) can significantly reduce pain and induce temporary vasodilation in capillaries, which the authors hypothesize can be used to improve the quality of life in TBI patients by treating their current symptoms, which are predominately migraine- like headaches. This case report illustrates the use of LLLT in the treatment of a patient with a TBI and the great clinical success achieved in the reduction of pain, as measured by VAS—achievable within five treatments of 10 minutes in duration.
Keywords: Traumatic Brain Injury; Low Level Laser Therapy; LLLT; Chronic Migraines; Headaches
1. INTRODUCTION
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) typically occurs when there is any sudden trauma to the skull that induces damage to the brain. There are many causes of TBIs, but unfortu- nately no documented cures. According to Faul et al., the annual incidence of TBI in the United States is approxi- mately 1.7 million incidents, which account for 30.5% of injury related deaths [1]. The direct and indirect costs of TBI totaled an estimated 76.5 billion dollars in the United States in 2000 [2]. Traumatic brain injuries play a major role in the health care of our nation, especially in our armed forces, where the men and women serving our country are at a higher risk to suffer a TBI.
Treatment is centered on preventing future insult to the brain, but very little can be done to treat the already ex- isting symptoms. These symptoms, as described by the National Institutes of Health, range from mild to severe and include: headaches, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and blurry vision. Current theory on alleviating the symp- toms of TBIs is based on reducing inflammatory and oxi- dative stress and increasing perfusion to support meta- bolic needs [3]. A study by Naeser et al. looked at the use of Near Infra Red (NIR) light for the treatment of TBI, stroke, and neurodegenerative disease. Their results were very promising, showing that nightly treatments with NIR LED over a period of months to years improved cognitive abilities [4]. Furthermore, they showed that the use of NIR light increased ATP production, caused vaso- dilation, and improved perfusion. We believe that the superpulsed 905 nm LLLT system employed in this case study operates through similar mechanisms of action and to support our hypothesis we present a case report of a patient with a traumatic brain injury that was treated with the superpulsed 905 nm LLLT system two years after the injury occurred.
2. CASE REPORT
A 25-year-old man with no pertinent past medical history presented as a new patient. His only complaint was chronic debilitating migraines since a traumatic brain injury which occurred in May of 2010. He was attacked and repeatedly hit over the head with a lead pipe, cons- quently requiring many sutures and leaving a scar on the brain as evidenced by the MRI performed subsequent to the incident. Since the attack, he has been experiencing excruciating migraines daily which he rates at ranging from 7/10 to 10/10 using a Visual Analog Scale (VAS) reference and physically describes them as: throbbing, squeezing sensations located primarily to the occipital region of his skull. He complains of being unable to have a peaceful night of sleep or to participate in play with his four children, the oldest being 9, due to the constant pain Published Online November 2012 in SciRes. http://www.scirp.org/journal/wjns
2 W. Stephan et al. / World Journal of Neuroscience 2 (2012) **-**
and agony he experiences.
After undergoing multiple previous treatment modali- ties, which included: medications, vitamin supplements, and chiropractic massage therapies, all of which were unsuccessful at alleviating his symptoms, he had all but given up hope. Willing to try anything to rid himself of the chronic pain, he agreed to undergo LLLT treatment. Using a Theralase® superpulsed LLLT medical laser sys- tem equipped with a multiple probe handpiece (5 × 905 nm wavelength @ 0 to 100 mW average power per laser diode + 4 × 660 nm wavelength @ 25 mW average power per laser diode), he was given a total of five treat- ments delivered over a two week period, with the 905 nm laser diodes set to 50 mW average power. The LLLT was targeted to a total of four areas on the scalp for two and a half minutes each: midline occipital region just below the lamboidal suture, superior aspect of the nape to target the Circle of Willis and over the mastoid processes bilate- rally. We selected 905 nm wavelength based on a previ- ous scientific study that demonstrated that the 905 nm superpulsed wavelength employed by the system was able to increase inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase (iNOS) expression by 700%, as compared to numerous other wave-lengths that showed little or no effect [5]. iNOS has been well documented in numerous clinical studies to cause temporary vasodilation by signaling endothelial cells located in capillary walls to become flaccid and relax. Additional studies have shown that 810 nm and 665 nm wavelengths may also be effective, but those specific wavelengths are not able to produce as much iNOS expression, when compared to 905 nm superpulsed technology [6]. An average power for the superpulsed 905 nm laser diodes was initially chosen to be 50 mW based on personal experience, but further clinical inves- tigations may uncover more clinically effective average power settings.
Immediately after the first treatment of only ten min- utes in duration, the patient reported a 43% reduction in pain, reporting a VAS of 4/10 from a pre-treatment score of 7/10. He stated the throbbing and squeezing nature of his pain had immediately subsided and that all that was left was more of a dull achy pain. He continued with the treatments over the next week and with each new treat- ment his pain was further reduced. By the end of the course of 5 treatments, his pain had reduced by over 90% and all that remained was a minor ache that was barely even noticeable. Furthermore, he reported no side effects from the treatment except for a slight sensation of warmth over the area where the laser was placed. He was no longer experiencing constant pain; even his children no- ticed the difference saying that he looked happier. After two years, he was finally able to achieve a good night’s rest.
3. DISCUSSION
Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) has been used in many acute and chronic conditions, but its effectiveness is yet to be fully documented by human clinical trials for mi- graine, stroke or TBI. Currently Dr. Michael Whalen, working at Massachusetts General Hospital, is conduct- ing controlled studies using a low level laser with the hopes of bringing this new technology into the forefront of neuroscience and medicine. This case study gives one example of how LLLT can be used to treat chronic mi- graines, specifically those that are a result of traumatic brain injuries. LLLT has been shown to reduce pain and inflammation, create a state of vasodilation by activating the nitric oxide pathway and further even promote an- giogenesis. The present theory is that by increasing blood flow to the brain, and subsequently, increasing oxygen delivery to the brain, the symptoms of a migraine can be mitigated. This case differs from previous studies per- formed using laser therapy to help patients with TBIs in that the type of laser and the settings used were unique. Specifically, unlike the LED light used by Naeser et al., the therapeutic laser we utilized only required five treat- ments over two weeks to be effective with immediate re- sults after the first treatment.
It is currently unclear whether or not our patient will need maintenance therapy. He was interviewed at two weeks and two months post treatment and remains sym- ptom free. He is deeply appreciative of the care he was given and continues to enjoy family life which was impossible before LLLT. More research needs to be done, especially controlled double blind studies to further eva- luate the full effectiveness and possible side effects of using LLLT in the treatment of TBIs and migraines, but the latest research has shown that LLLT is an extremely safe and effective technology for a wide range of neural and muscular skeletal conditions.
REFERENCES
[1]
Faul, M.X.L., Wald, M.M. and Coronado, V.G. (2010) Traumatic brain injury in the United States: Emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and deaths. *, **-**.
[2]
Finkelstein E, C.P., Miller T and associates, The Inci-dence and Economic Burden of Injuries in the United States. Oxford University Press, 2006. doi:10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195179484.001.0001
[3]
Sahni, T., et al., (2012) Use of hyperbaric oxygen in traumatic brain injury: retrospective analysis of data of 20 patients treated at a tertiary care centre. British Journal of Neurosurgery, 26, 202-207. doi:10.3109/02688697.2011.626879
[4]
Naeser, M.A. and Hamblin, M.R. (2011) Potential for transcranial laser or LED therapy to treat stroke, trau- matic brain injury, and neurodegenerative disease. Pho- Copyright © 2012 SciRes. WJNS
W. Stephan et al. / World Journal of Neuroscience 2 (2012) **-**
Copyright © 2012 SciRes. WJNS
3
tomedicine and Laser Surgery, 29, 443-446. doi:10.1089/pho.2011.9908
[5]
Moriyama, Y., et al. (2009) In vivo effects of low level laser therapy on inducible nitric oxide synthase. Lasers in Surgery and Medicine, 41, 227-231. doi:10.1002/lsm.20745
The laser used in this study was the TLC-1000, super-pulsed multi-probe laser
For more information please call 1-866-843-5273 or visit www.theralase.com
Thursday, November 15, 2012
What Is Bladder Cancer?
Bladder cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the United States, with an estimated 74,000 people receiving diagnoses this year and another 15,000 patients dying from bladder cancer. Medical professionals predict an increase in the number of bladder cancer cases in the coming years.
Cigarette smoking and chemical exposure are among the leading causes of bladder cancer, the second-most common urological cancer in adults. Bladder cancer is more common among men than women, and afflicts more Caucasians than African-Americans. It is also known for its high recurrence rate.
But for patients diagnosed with bladder cancer, the silver lining comes in the form of statistics and new medical procedures:
- About 80 percent of bladder cancer patients are diagnosed in the earliest stages.
- The overall five-year survival rate is more than 90 percent.
- Innovative techniques allow an increasing number of patients to keep their bladder rather than having it removed.
Bladder Cancer Causes
Among the risk factors for bladder cancer are advanced age, chronic bladder infections and treatment with certain types of medications. Those medications include cyclophosphamide, a common chemotherapy drug, and pioglitazone, the active ingredient in the type 2 diabetes drug Actos. Studies show that Actos increases the risk of bladder cancer by as much as 80 percent.Researchers say that because the leading cause of bladder cancer is smoking, it is one of the most preventable types of cancer. Studies show that cigarette smoking raises the risk for bladder cancer fourfold. In addition, some occupations pose a stronger risk of daily exposure to workplace chemicals, which can lead to bladder cancer.
Among them are:
- Hairdressers
- Machinists
- Printers
- Painters
- Medical workers
- Truck drivers
Symptoms of Bladder Cancer
Symptoms of bladder cancer develop quietly in a majority of people with the disease. Hematuria, also known as bloody urine, is typically the first sign of the disease. But because this symptom is usually painless and fleeting, most patients are either unaware of it or ignore it. Although the blood could be visible, it is most often undetectable unless under a microscope.For this reason, many patients don’t learn of their diagnosis until after a urine analysis. Frequent bladder infections, frequent urination, back pain and painful urination are among the warning signs. While these are less common, they should not be ignored.
Diagnosing Bladder Cancer
Because of the stealthy nature of bladder cancer, most patients are taken by surprise by a bladder cancer diagnosis. It often comes after testing for recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) or during a routine medical visit.Once tumor markers are found in the urine, doctors order a series of other tests. These include an intravenous pyelogram (IVP), the standard imaging test for bladder cancer. Through this test, physicians can view the bladder and surrounding organs for evidence of cancer. Doctors also use CT scans, MRI scans and bone scans, as well as ultrasounds, for a more complete look at the bladder.
For a closer look at the inside of the bladder, doctors may perform a bladder biopsy. This is done with a long, flexible device called a cystoscope that is inserted into the bladder through the urethra. Small tissue samples are removed for laboratory examination.
Once bladder cancer is diagnosed, oncologists will stage the cancer using the tumor, node and metastases (TNM) system. With this, medical professionals can determine the extent of the cancer and the best course of treatment.
Bladder Cancer Treatment
While surgery, either alone or in combination with other treatments, is the standard for managing bladder cancer, researchers are finding innovative ways to treat it.Overall, treatment depends on the stage, or progress, of the disease:
- Stage 0 through 1 treatments (non-muscle invasive):
- Transurethral Resection (TUR or TURBT) – With the use of a cystoscope, surgeons are able to cauterize, or burn away, the destructive cancer cells.
- Segmental cystectomy – In some early-stage patients, surgeons will remove a portion of the diseased bladder. The remaining bladder is sewn together.
- Chemotherapy and immunotherapy – To ensure the cancer is killed, sometimes oncologists will order several rounds of chemotherapy or immunotherapy to impede the early-stage disease.
- Stage II, III and IV treatments (muscle invasive)
- Radical cystectomy – In this procedure, a surgeon removes the entire diseased bladder and replaces it with one of several urinary diversions. These include creating a new bladder from the intestines or creating a new urinary elimination system.
- Chemotherapy and immunotherapy – Unless the patient is sickly or elderly, oncologists will prescribe either or both of these treatments to further destroy this spreading disease.
- Clinical trials – Many oncologists will recommend that advanced-stage patients seek clinical trials for new and inventive ways to battle bladder cancer.
- Dr. Arkady Mandel, Chief Scientific Officer of Theralase Technologies Inc. stated, “Commercialization of any new anti-cancer medicine depends upon the safe and effective destruction of all cancerous tumours, while upholding the patient’s quality of life. We are excited that our leading patented photo dynamic compound effectively destroyed a human urinary bladder carcinoma cell line (HT-1376) when activated by our proprietary light system. We are confident that as we complete our preclinical research and prepare for human trials in 2013, we will demonstrate to the medical community that we possess a highly effective, safe and efficient alternative treatment option to current bladder cancer patients.”
Incidence Rates of Bladder Cancer
For unknown reasons, the incidence of bladder cancer is higher in New England than the rest of the United States. While Caucasians have a higher incidence of the disease than African Americans, the mortality rate is in Caucasians is only slightly higher. That’s because African Americans tend to be diagnosed at a later disease stage, according to the National Cancer Institute.Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, bladder cancer is known to reoccur in most cases. For this reason, medical professionals recommend that patients have check-ups every three months for the first three years after diagnosis and then every year thereafter.
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Marketing and Advertising Claims Made by Some Laser Companies
"If it sounds too good to be true, it
probably is!"
There is so much misinformation, inappropriate referencing of research, and pseudo science being presented as scientific fact by some manufacturers and marketers of laser and light therapy devices, it is difficult for potential users and patients alike to know what is real and what is simply hype.
The main thing to remember, however, is that laser & light therapies are bound by the laws of physics and the science of photobiology. If a claim contradicts known physical laws and/or known photobiological mechanisms, the claim is probably untrue! And if a manufacturer’s claim is not backed up by independent third-party or peer-reviewed data, the claim cannot taken as fact.
The most common 'fantastic' claims you'll come across relate to:
There is so much misinformation, inappropriate referencing of research, and pseudo science being presented as scientific fact by some manufacturers and marketers of laser and light therapy devices, it is difficult for potential users and patients alike to know what is real and what is simply hype.
The main thing to remember, however, is that laser & light therapies are bound by the laws of physics and the science of photobiology. If a claim contradicts known physical laws and/or known photobiological mechanisms, the claim is probably untrue! And if a manufacturer’s claim is not backed up by independent third-party or peer-reviewed data, the claim cannot taken as fact.
The most common 'fantastic' claims you'll come across relate to:
- Laser Power or Class: usually claims promoting the use of
very-high-power (Class IV) or very-low-power (Class I and II) devices;
- Penetration Depth: such as claims of laser energy penetrating to
depths which are physically impossible;
- Wavelength: such as 'optimal' or 'patented' wavelengths; and,
- Unique and Patented Effects: some real classics are the 'piggy-backing' of wavelengths to achieve deeper penetration than is physically possible, so-called 'resonating' lasers, and the creation of 'soliton waves' and other pseudo-scientific nonsense.
There is also a tendency by marketeers to point to the work and words of various authors and researchers as 'supporting' or 'proving' their extraordinary statements. In many cases this type of 'fluff and nonsense' marketing is conducted by manufacturers of laser products themselves, whereas in others it is the fault of the marketers and salespeople who represent their products.
Two authors whose words have been manipulated and taken out of context many times are Jan Tunér and Lars Hode, authors of The Laser Therapy Handbook and many other excellent references. Jan and Lars have finally spoken out about this in a brief paper called 'Confounders & Magicians' [PDF: 181KB].
In this paper, Jan and Lars refer to an article written by Daniel Murphy, DC, which is critical of an article written by Robert Wertz, DC. Interestingly, but not surprisingly, Murphy and Wertz are both closely associated with laser manufacturers - one of which, Avicenna, produces a very-high-power, 7.5 Watt, Class IV laser device, and the other, Erchonia, which produces a 10mW (2x 5mW) laser. Both Murphy and Wertz refer to passages from 'The Laser Therapy Handbook' to support their particular, and very polarized, points of view, and yet both have omitted specific elements of those passages that would put the lie to the very points they are trying to make!
Another article by Wertz, entitled 'A Higher Power' [PDF: 92KB], was published in Advance for Directors in Rehabilitation, and again made inappropriate references to Tunér & Hode and their written works. In response to this article, I felt compelled to write a letter to the editor [PDF: 46KB] of this publication.
A particular case in point is the K-Laser, a Class IV laser device which is manufactured in Italy by Eltech, and they make no extraordinary claims about it. However, in the USA the K-Laser is promoted with extraordinary claims about the effects of wavelength and power density on the depth of penetration. The manufacturer's own literature [PDF: 429KB] clearly and accurately illustrates the relative penetration of the two wavelengths, 980nm and 790nm, used in some versions of the K-Laser product, yet in the USA the marketers and sales people representing these products feel the need to rewrite the laws of physics, making such ridiculous claims as "Class III lasers are capable of penetration of only a few millimeters, while Class IV lasers can penetrate over 4 inches into the deep musculoskeletal tissue."
Of course, K-Laser USA is not the only offender, as there are a slew of Class IV laser devices now been marketed along similar lines, such as Pegasus, LiteCure, Companion, and Avicenna to name a few. Not all of their marketing is so far beyond the realms of reality, but most of it certainly gives the grey areas a good nudge.
Pseudo-scientific jargonism is another technique used by unscrupulous marketeers to promote their otherwise lackluster products. By 'pseudo-scientific jargonism', I mean the use in marketing of valid scientific terms and concepts in such a way as to deliberately deceive a non-expert audience into believing there is some scientific-validity to the claims being made. It is an insidious method of marketing that has been used by quacks and snake-oils salesmen for centuries!
A classic piece of pseudo-scientific jargonistic rubbish is published by the promoter of the Q1000, a laser that is supposedly able to create '6 Soliton Waves' that allow "subtle energy to penetrate deep into body tissues to resonate cells and balance organs". In itself this is an extraordinary mouthful of pseudo-scientific codswallop, pure quackery, but they go on to make it even more astounding!
Anyone with a rudimentary knowledge of physics would choke with laughter at the Q1000 marketeers' following bogus definition of polarization:
Polarization is the body's way of protecting itself against unpredictable energy, such as electromagnetic pollution. Polarization is also known as impedance of resistance. It is triggered by Low Level Lasers utilizing a high power density or by lasers that are not controlled by a mini-computer, which ensures the power density and frequency are constant. The success of many Low Level Lasers is compromised by these two factors and it is important to purchase a laser that is driven by the exactness of a mini-computer for optimal performance.
The US Government's Federal Trade Commission provides the following advice about such false and fraudulent claims as this:
When evaluating health-related claims, be skeptical. If something sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Here are some signs of a fraudulent claim:
- Statements that the product is a quick and effective cure-all or diagnostic tool for a wide variety of ailments. For example: "Extremely beneficial in the treatment of rheumatism, arthritis, infections, prostate problems, ulcers, cancer, heart trouble, hardening of the arteries and more."
- Statements that suggest the product can treat or cure diseases. For example: "shrinks tumors" or "cures impotency."
- Promotions that use words like "scientific breakthrough," "miraculous cure," "exclusive product," "secret ingredient" or "ancient remedy." For example: "A revolutionary innovation formulated by using proven principles of natural health-based medical science."
- Text that uses impressive-sounding terms like these for a weight-loss product: "hunger stimulation point" and "thermogenesis."
- Undocumented case histories or personal testimonials by consumers or doctors claiming amazing results. For example: "My husband has Alzheimer['s disease]. He began eating a teaspoonful of this product each day. And now in just 22 days he mowed the grass, cleaned out the garage, weeded the flower beds and we take our morning walk again."
- Limited availability and advance payment requirements. For example: "Hurry. This offer will not last. Send us a check now to reserve your supply."
- Promises of no-risk "money-back guarantees." For example: "If after 30 days you have not lost at least 4 pounds each week, your uncashed check will be returned to you."
Thankfully in many countries, such as Australia, New Zealand and Canada, the advertising of therapeutic devices is heavily regulated and closely monitored. However this does not always provide protection, and so it is up to the individual to make the sometimes difficult judgement about what constitutes a valid claim, and what is utter rubbish.
In all cases, it pertinent that prospective purchasers and users of therapeutic laser devices view these and other extraordinary and unscientific marketing claims as forming the outer fringes of a credibility bell-curve, where the greatest scientific evidence in support of marketing claims is located in the centre - not at the extremes.
For more information please call 1-866-843-5273 or visit www.theralase.com
Monday, November 12, 2012
Theralase Compound Effective in Destroying Bladder Cancer Tumour Cells
Toronto,
Ontario –November 12, 2012 -- Theralase Technologies Inc. (TSX-V: TLT) Photo
Dynamic Therapy (PDT) Division, announced today study results proving that its patented
Photo Dynamic Compounds (PDCs) were significantly
more effective in destroying a human urinary bladder carcinoma cell
line than a FDA
approved photosensitizer, aminolevulinic acid (ALA).
Dr. Arkady
Mandel, Chief Scientific Officer of Theralase stated, “Commercialization of any
new anti-cancer medicine depends upon the safe and effective destruction of all
cancerous tumours, while upholding the patient’s quality of life. We are
excited that our leading compound effectively destroyed a human urinary bladder
carcinoma cell line (HT-1376) when activated by our proprietary light system. To
validate our initial success, we evaluated the efficacy of the Theralase PDC in
comparison with aminolevulinic acid (ALA). The results indicated that the
Theralase PDC was effectively destroying bladder cancer cells at much lower
concentrations than ALA (1/1000th of the dose).”
Dr. Lothar
Lilge, Professor and Senior Scientist, Ontario Cancer Institute, Princess
Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network stated, “In my lab, the Theralase PDCs have shown remarkable efficacy and
robustness in the destruction of various cancer cell lines, such as: colon,
brain, breast and now bladder cancer. This research potentially offers a new opportunity
for individualized cancer therapy across various invasive tumours.”
Roger
Dumoulin-White, President and CEO, Theralase Inc. stated, “Based upon our
recent success, we have now reconfirmed that bladder cancer is our lead cancer
target for our lead PDC compound. Our research confirms what we had already suspected;
our PDC technology is lethal to human urinary bladder carcinoma cells. Given that
our technology can deliver effective results at significantly lower doses than ALA,
this would suggest a superior safety and cost effectiveness for our lead
compound, as compared to ALA. We are confident that as we complete our
preclinical research and prepare for human trials in 2013, we will demonstrate
to the medical community that we possess a highly effective, safe and efficient
alternative treatment option to current bladder cancer patients.”
Bladder
cancer is the fifth most common cancer in the North America; the fourth most
common among men and eighth most common in women. In the United States 73,000
new bladder cancer cases and 15,000 deaths are reported annually. With a
recurrence rate of nearly 80%, bladder cancer is the most expensive cancer to
treat on a per patient basis. The high recurrence rate severely affects the
quality of life of patients and also the total cost of treatment, which in the
United States exceeds $2.9 billion in
direct treatment related costs
annually.
In other related
news, Sun Pharmaceutical Industries (NSE: SUNPHARMA, BSE: 524715), with a market value of $USD 13.3 billion, announced on
November 8, 2012, that it signed
a definitive agreement to acquire Dusa Pharaceuticals Inc. (DUSA) for $8 per
share for a total cash consideration of $USD 230 million. DUSA is a dermatology company focused on developing and marketing its FDA
approved Levulan photodynamic therapy platform (active ingredient of Levulan is ALA), for
actinic keratosis of the face or scalp (dry, scaly patches on the skin that can
lead to skin cancer). http://www.sunpharma.com/news/press/20121108%20Sun%20Pharma%20to%20Acquire%20DUSA%20.pdf
About Theralase Technologies Inc.:
Theralase
Technologies Inc., founded in 1995, designs, develops, manufactures and markets
patented, superpulsed laser technology utilized in biostimulation and
biodestruction applications. Theralase technology is safe and effective in
treating pain, inflammation and for tissue regeneration of neural muscular
skeletal conditions and wound healing. Theralase is currently developing
patented Photo Dynamic Compounds (PDCs) that are able to target and destroy
cancers, bacteria and viruses when light activated by Theralase’s proprietary
and patented laser technology.
For further information please visit www.theralase.com , regulatory filings may
be viewed by visiting www.sedar.com.
This press release
contains forward-looking statements, which reflect the Company's current
expectations regarding future events. The forward-looking statements involve
risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those
projected herein. The Company disclaims any obligation to update these
forward-looking statements.
Neither TSX Venture
Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the
policies of the TSX Venture Exchanges) accepts responsibility for the adequacy
or accuracy of this release.
For More
Information
Roger
Dumoulin-White
President
& CEO
416-447-8455
ext. 225
rwhite@theralase.com
Kristina
Hachey
Chief
Financial Officer
416-447-8455
ext. 224
khachey@theralase.com
Arkady
Mandel
Chief
Scientific Officer
416-447-8455
ext. 242
amandel@theralase.com
Greg Bewsh
Director of
Investor Relations
416-447-8455
ext. 262
gbewsh@theralase.com
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
Cold Laser Therapy: Certificate Course Nov. 24th in Toronto
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Registration
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Tuesday, October 23, 2012
The Top Ten Features to Look For in a Cold Laser
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Monday, October 22, 2012
Theralase Photo Dynamic Compounds Destroy Cancer
Toronto,
Ontario – October 22, 2012, Theralase Technologies Inc. (TSX-V: TLT) announced
today the successful results of preclinical studies (in-vitro and in-vivo)
demonstrating significant destruction of various brain and colon cancer cell
lines. The new proprietary Theralase treatment sharply delayed the tumour
progression, when attacked by the Theralase patented light activated Photo
Dynamic Compounds (PDCs), signifying a new and broadly promising approach to
cancer treatment. When treated with the Theralase PDCs, cancerous mice survived
cancer-free for more than 100 days post-treatment, a highly significant
milestone.
The
scientific data supporting this breakthrough was presented and well received
recently at the 9th International Symposium of Photodynamic Therapy and
Photodiagnosis in Clinical Practice held in Brixen, Italy. The Theralase
presentation was made by Dr. Lothar Lilge, Senior Scientist, Ontario Cancer
Institute / Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network (UHN)
and confirms the significance of the successful research conducted by Theralase
in collaboration with UHN scientists, validating this scientific work on the
international stage.
Dr. Lothar
Lilge stated that, "These preclinical results demonstrate that the
Theralase Photo Dynamic Compounds appear to be highly effective (100% cancer
cell kill) when used to destroy various cancer cell lines in-vitro; specifically, brain glioma (U-87 and F-98) and in-vivo; specifically, colon cancer
(CT-26WT), in the treatment of subcutaneous cancer tumours in Balb/c mice. Mice
enrolled in the study, presented with subcutaneous cancerous lesions of
approximately 6 mm in size prior to treatment, which is standard for these
preclinical models. The statistically significant improvement in survival times
make these results even more encouraging, as a number of mice are still alive
today living cancer free, 100 days post treatment. Moreover, we believe that
tested PDCs may have potential for Type I (oxygen independent) PDT effect;
hence, their clinical use would represent a significant gain in cancer
therapy.”
Dr. Arkady
Mandel, Chief Scientific Officer at Theralase Inc. stated that, "We were
delighted with the extremely promising results of our latest cancer studies,
which demonstrate significant anticancer destruction of Theralase’s PDCs in all
tested in-vitro studies and in difficult to treat in-vivo cancer models, without significant optimization. With
optimization, the ability of the Theralase PDCs to target and destroy cancerous
tumours could be even more enhanced. There are a number of obvious advantages
for the use of Theralase’s PDCs in the destruction of cancer that have been
established by this body of work, such as: the Photo Dynamic Therapy (PDT)
effect has been achieved at lower concentrations compared to aminolevulinic
acid, also known as ALA (ALA is a currently approved FDA PDC) and with lower
dark toxicity (PDC alone with no light) compared to methylene blue (another
PDC), the Theralase PDCs have potential for Type I (oxygen independent) PDT
effect and lastly were able to induce tumour necrosis (cell death) in mice that
allowed prolonged survival, cancer free, in excess of 100 days of observation.
New evidence from experimental and clinical studies increasingly points to a
lack of oxygen content or hypoxia in solid tumours to be strongly associated
with tumour propagation, malignant progression and resistance to therapy and it
has thus become one of the central issues in tumour physiology and cancer
treatment. Therefore, with the latest scientific data in hand, Theralase’s PDT
has the potential to become more expeditiously integrated into the mainstream
of cancer treatment.”
Roger
Dumoulin-White, President and CEO of Theralase stated, “This new research
extends the opportunity of Theralase’s patented PDC technology to have a
successful impact on two additional devastating forms of cancer; specifically,
brain and colon cancer. Our research has demonstrated a kill rate of
effectively 100% in specific human brain and colon cancer cells lines. With the
high mouse survival rate, which is approximately equivalent to 11 years “cancer
free” in humans, being observed in this study, these results lay the groundwork
for further preclinical work for these specific cancers. If the preclinical
work is proven successful, this would lead to human clinical trials as early as
2013. Theralase plans to aggressively pursue commercialization of its
ground-breaking PDT technology through the FDA regulatory approval process and
is on track to commence FDA Phase 1 human clinical trials as early as this time
next year. Theralase plans to continue its research and development at an
accelerated pace to optimize and expand its growing patent portfolio of PDCs
that are able to destroy a variety of life threatening cancers.”
About Theralase Technologies Inc.:
Theralase
Technologies Inc., founded in 1995, designs, develops, manufactures and markets
patented, superpulsed laser technology utilized in biostimulation and biodestruction
applications. Theralase technology is safe and effective in treating pain,
inflammation and for tissue regeneration of neural muscular skeletal conditions
and wound healing. Theralase is currently developing patented Photo Dynamic
Compounds (PDCs) that are able to target and destroy cancers, bacteria and
viruses when light activated by Theralase’s proprietary and patented laser
technology.
For further information please visit www.theralase.com , regulatory filings may
be viewed by visiting www.sedar.com.
This press release
contains forward-looking statements, which reflect the Company's current
expectations regarding future events. The forward-looking statements involve
risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those
projected herein. The Company disclaims any obligation to update these
forward-looking statements.
Neither TSX Venture
Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the
policies of the TSX Venture Exchanges) accepts responsibility for the adequacy
or accuracy of this release.
For More
Information
Roger
Dumoulin-White
President
& CEO,
416-447-8455
ext. 225
rwhite@theralase.com
Kristina
Hachey
Chief
Financial Officer
416-447-8455
ext. 224
khachey@theralase.com
Arkady
Mandel
Chief
Scientific Officer
416-447-8455
ext. 242
amandel@theralase.com
Greg Bewsh
Director of
Investor Relations,
416-447-8455
ext. 262
gbewsh@theralase.com
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Theralase Photo Dynamic Compounds Effective in Destruction of Drug Resistant Bacteria
Toronto, Ontario – October 17, 2012 -- Theralase
Technologies Inc. (TSX-V: TLT) announced
today that its Photo Dynamic Compound (PDC) technology has been proven effective
in the destruction of staphylococcus
aureus and its multi drug resistant strain, methicillin resistant
staphylococcus aureus, also known as MRSA.
MRSA
is a bacteria strain that has grown resistant to antibiotics and hence has the
potential of causing invasive infections, which are extremely difficult to
treat in 25% of the population infected. In 2005, the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention
reported that 94,000 individuals
were hospitalized as a result of MRSA infections and there were 18,650 deaths as
a result, costing the US healthcare system an additional $45 billion a year.
The scientific data supporting
this discovery was presented yesterday at the 9th International
Symposium of Photodynamic Therapy and Photodiagnosis in Clinical Practice held
in Brixen, Italy. The presentation by Dr. Lothar Lilge confirms the significance
of the research conducted by Theralase’s and University Health Network’s (UHN) scientists.
Dr. Arkady Mandel, Chief
Scientific Officer of Theralase Inc. stated that, “Theralase unveiled to the
scientific community its advanced sterilization platform technology that is able
to deliver an 8 log or 99.999999% kill rate, which is comparable with complete sterilization of life threatening infectious microorganisms, such as staphylococcus aureus
and MRSA. Theralase’s new PDC technology
would therefore be well suited to preventing hospital acquired infections, as
well as infections found in nursing homes, schools or bacterial contaminations in
food processing facilities. Quite simply, once MRSA bacteria have been detected,
they could be quickly destroyed utilizing Theralase’s patented Photo Dynamic
Compounds and proprietary light sources.”
Dr. Lothar
Lilge, Senior Scientist, Ontario Cancer Institute / Princess Margaret Cancer Centre,
UHN stated, “Theralase’s PDCs in conjunction with light exposure were shown to
achieve essentially complete sterilization, even at low concentrations, against
staphylococcus aureus and MRSA in an in
vitro laboratory setting. The
effective dose of tested PDCs was not toxic for human tissues even after 4
hours of incubation demonstrating their suitability and safety to sterilization
applications. As an added benefit, the Theralase PDCs maintained their
sterilizing activity even in low oxygen conditions demonstrating a Type I
photosensitization effect that may open up new opportunities for the safe and effective
destruction of many strains of deadly organisms and tumours that thrive in low
oxygen environments, such as cancer.”
Dr. Arkady Mandel went on to say, “The dramatic increase of antibiotic
resistance in bacteria has led me to investigate whether Theralase’s PDCs would
be effective in the destruction of MRSA, as an alternative to antibacterial pharmaceutical
drugs. Our successes to date will allow Theralase’s
PDCs to be used in the future to combat difficult to heal invasive infections. The Theralase PDCs in these studies
have been chosen for their low dark toxicity to human tissue and for their high
cancer and bacteria targeting properties. The Theralase PDCs are extremely promising
for the development of advanced disinfection and sterilization strategies for controlling
and eliminating hospital and community acquired infections, such as MRSA.”
Roger Dumoulin-White,
President and CEO of Theralase stated, “Based on our recent successes with our
PDC technology in destroying MRSA, Theralase is actively pursuing early
commercialization of this technology through strategic partnerships to
co-develop the technology for particular sterilization applications. As an
added benefit, due to the very low concentrations of PDCs required for
sterilization, the costs of administering this technology will be very cost
effective. The early commercialization of our patented PDC technology with
strategic partners will dramatically improve the financial revenues of the
organization. These scientific studies thus highlight Theralase’s commitment to
advancing its exclusive patented technologies for the ultimate goal of greater commercial
opportunities for the Company.”
Theralase Technologies Inc.,
founded in 1995, designs, develops, manufactures and markets patented,
superpulsed laser technology utilized in biostimulation and biodestruction
applications. Theralase technology is safe and effective in treating pain,
inflammation and for tissue regeneration of neural muscular skeletal conditions
and wound healing. Theralase is currently developing patented Photo Dynamic
Compounds (PDCs) that are able to target and destroy cancers, bacteria and
viruses when light activated by Theralase’s proprietary and patented laser
technology.
For further information
please visit www.theralase.com, regulatory filings may be viewed by visiting
www.sedar.com.
This press release contains forward-looking statements,
which reflect the Company's current expectations regarding future events. The
forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results
could differ materially from those projected herein. The Company disclaims any
obligation to update these forward-looking statements.
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation
Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture
Exchanges) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
For More Information:
Roger Dumoulin-White
President & Chief Executive Officer
416-447-8455 ext. 225
Friday, October 12, 2012
Theralase Effective in the Treatment of Tobacco Addiction
Toronto, Ontario – October 12, 2012 -- Theralase Technologies Inc. (TSX-V: TLT) announced today that the Theralase therapeutic laser system, has been proven clinically effective in the treatment of tobacco addiction.
The Theralase technology was clinically evaluated on over 500 subjects, who were heavy smokers, to validate if they were able to reduce their smoking by at least 25%, 30 days after receiving the Theralase laser treatment. The results of the clinical study demonstrated that 405 (73.8%) subjects had reduced their consumption of tobacco products by 25% or more, with 373 (92.0%) completely eliminating use and 32 of those subjects (8.0%) showing a reduction of at least 25%.
Smoking is one of the most preventable illnesses that plague the American population. In 2009, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that smoking accounted for $96 billion a year in direct health care costs and an additional $97 billion a year in lost productivity. Smoking addiction is a complex condition, which can disrupt a person’s life, leading to severe health concerns, deterioration of major organs, incurable diseases and eventually pre-mature death. In fact, more deaths are caused each year by tobacco use than by all deaths from human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), illegal drug use, alcohol use, motor vehicle injuries, suicides and murders combined, with cigarette smoking causing 1 out of every 5 deaths in the United States each year.
Roger Dumoulin-White, President and CEO of Theralase stated that “Due to the complexity of smoking addiction and the poor success rate that alternative cessation methods have had, this independent clinical study was commissioned to enroll 549 subjects, from a homogeneous, cosmopolitan population of heavy smokers. The treatment group consisted of a relatively equal representation of male and female subjects with an average age in the mid to late forties. A Theralase therapeutic laser system was applied to specific ear and body acupuncture points to determine if the subject could reduce their smoking consumption by 25% or more 30 days after treatment. The results of the clinical study demonstrated that at the 30 day follow-up end point, 405 (73.8%) subjects had met the outcome criteria and had reduced their consumption of tobacco products by 25% or more, with 373 of those subjects (92.0%) completely eliminating use of tobacco products and 32 of those subjects (8.0%) showing a reduction of at least 25%. This non-pharmacologic and non-invasive therapeutic modality exceeds the effectiveness of other therapeutic options currently available for smoking cessation treatment, including nicotine patch, nicotine gum and other pharmaceutical alternatives.”
Dr. Arkady
Mandel, Chief Scientific Officer of Theralase said, “Due to the significant reduction
in the consumption of tobacco products by 405 (73.8%) subjects by 25% or more
at the 30 day follow-up end point, the Theralase laser technology may find
itself as a first line approach to combatting long term tobacco addiction in
the not too distant future. Theralase laser acupuncture treatments may represent
a safe and effective alternative for reducing the amount of tobacco products
consumed by smokers”.
About Theralase
Technologies Inc.:
Theralase
Technologies Inc., founded in 1995, designs, develops, manufactures and markets
patented, superpulsed laser technology utilized in biostimulation and
biodestruction applications. Theralase technology is safe and effective in
treating pain, inflammation and for tissue regeneration of neural muscular
skeletal conditions and wound healing in both humans and animals. Theralase
complies with all FDA, Health Canada, CE and international regulatory approvals
to produce clinically effective, safe and high quality products. Theralase also
develops patented Photo Dynamic Compound (PDC) technology focused at targeting
and destroying cancers, bacteria and viruses when light activated by
Theralase’s proprietary and patented laser technologies.
For
further information please visit www.theralase.com,
regulatory filings may be viewed by visiting www.sedar.com.
This press release
contains forward-looking statements, which reflect the Company's current
expectations regarding future events. The forward-looking statements involve
risks and uncertainties. Actual results could differ materially from those
projected herein. The Company disclaims any obligation to update these
forward-looking statements.
Neither TSX Venture
Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the
policies of the TSX Venture Exchanges) accepts responsibility for the adequacy
or accuracy of this release.
For More Information,
please contact:
Roger
Dumoulin - White,
President and
CEO
416-447-8455 ext. 225
Kristina
Hachey
Chief
Financial Officer
416-447-8455
ext. 224
Greg
Bewsh
Director of
Investor Relations
416-447-8455
ext. 262
Arkady Mandel
Chief Scientific Officer
416-447-8455 ext. 242
amandel@theralase.comlase.com
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