The market launch of its proprietary hand piece featuring a new 5-millimeter spot size for the Gentle Pro Nd:YAG Laser Series has been revealed by Syneron Medical.

The introduction of this new FDA-cleared hand piece expands the functionality of the GentleYAG® Pro and GentleMax® Pro Nd:YAG laser to treat onychomycosis (nail fungus) in addition to its existing capabilities for hair removal and for the treatment of vascular and pigmented lesions.

Onychomycosis is one of the most commonly diagnosed foot conditions, affecting 10-12 percent of the population. This prevalent and persistent disorder results in thick, jagged nails that can injure surrounding skin, spawning secondary infections and ulcers. Diabetics are especially at risk with a 34 percent chance of developing fungal nail infection and an increased instance of other complications. In those aged 70 and up, 50 percent are expected to develop onychomycosis.

The previous standard of care has been oral antifungal medications, which carry side effects including the potential for hepatotoxicity (chemical driven liver damage) and a high failure rate. Topical treatments have also resulted in limited success due to their inability to properly penetrate the nail.

Laser therapies like Candela’s Gentle Pro Nd:YAG Laser allow physicians to treat onychomycosis symptoms locally without the systemic effects of oral medications. All infectious agents, except prions, can be killed by heat, which makes laser therapy an extremely promising new option for onychomycosis sufferers.

With its precision 5 mm hand piece, the Gentle Pro Nd:YAG Laser raises the temperature under the nail to a level that’s inhospitable to fungus in order to increase the appearance of clear nails.

“This new indication for the Gentle Pro series puts Syneron at the forefront of technological advancements designed to meet and surpass our physician partners’ standards,” said Amit Meridor, Chief Executive Officer of Syneron.

“The 5 mm hand piece makes our Gentle Pro laser even more valuable for our customers, expanding patient services with one simple addition.”

For additional information email info@syneron-candela.co.uk or visit www.syneron-candela.co.uk