A new medical device uses light to treat difficult infections safely and effectively
March 5, 2024 (Hamilton, ON) – Nail fungus (onychomycosis) affects some 50% of seniors across the world. It becomes more prevalent in aging populations because the nails, and especially toenails, tend to become drier and more fragile, and it can also be more difficult to take care of feet properly when circulation or mobility issues get in the way. In long-term care homes, where many seniors reside, fungal nail infections are not only an esthetic issue, but are often very painful, making it difficult to wear shoes and impeding mobility, ultimately reducing the quality of life.
Ontario-based ToeFX Inc., with support from OBIO’s Early Adopter Health Network (EAHN™), launched a safe and effective, portable device to treat onychomycosis with light therapy at Banwell Gardens Care Centre.
This was a highly successful evaluation. ToeFx’s ClearToe Therapy Light has been authorized by Health Canada as a Class II Medical Device and is a clinically proven treatment to promote clearance of nail fungus on toenails in 10-12 treatments. All the patients at Banwell Gardens Care Centre who underwent this therapy were very satisfied with the outcomes, and reported an improvement in their nails, stating they looked brighter and clearer.
“Banwell Gardens Care Centre was delighted to offer residents and their caregivers a safe, effective therapy for fungal nails,” said Sara Fox, Executive Director of Banwell Gardens Care Centre. “Healthy feet are fundamental for seniors’ mobility and their quality of life.”
“We are so grateful to the EAHN™ program for supporting an evaluation which demonstrated how our product can bring safe and accessible treatment to those who need it, and cost-effectively,” said Monika Yazdanian, CEO of ToeFx Inc. “We are confident that these results will lead to better integration of this easy-to-deliver therapy across institutional settings, and the technology has already been procured for use at other long-term care homes.”
“OBIO® is proud of this valuable collaboration through the EAHN™ program, the first in a long-term care facility”, said Dr. Maura Campbell, President and CEO of OBIO®. “Banwell Gardens Care Centre and ToeFx Inc. evaluated a made-in-Canada therapy that meets a real clinical need, laying the groundwork for future EAHN™ partnerships in the long-term care sector.”
ClearToe Therapy Light is a painless, easy to use treatment and unlike topical applications and oral therapies does not require daily commitment and has no side effects. It is an ideal method to treat nail fungus, particularly in seniors, and is also effective in very severe cases.
About OBIO®
OBIO®, a not-for-profit, membership-based organization dedicated to advancing health technology innovation and commercialization, is prioritizing the evaluation of new technologies through its Early Adopter Health Network (EAHN™). OBIO® is engaged in strategy, programming, policy development and advocacy to further the commercialization of human health technologies, positioning Canada as a leader in the international marketplace.
For more information, please visit OBIO.ca.
About ToeFx
ToeFX is driven by innovation. Created by scientists, our vision is to create the world’s most effective foot care treatments. We understand that toenail fungus can be embarrassing, hard to treat, and hard to talk about. We want to help the millions of people hiding their feet to “show off their toenails” with confidence. Our commitment to our partner clinicians and their patients is to provide innovative, high-quality products that really work. Visit ToeFx Inc. for more information.
About Banwell Gardens Care Centre
With 142 long-term care residents, Banwell Gardens Care Centre maintains a warm, inviting atmosphere in the neighbourhood of Tecumseh. We pride ourselves on providing outstanding, compassionate care to our residents and paying close attention to their individual needs. We are pleased to offer French Language Services and strive to meet the needs of our bilingual community. Well-established programs such as pet and music therapy, restorative care and physiotherapy enhance residents physically, mentally and emotionally. Our landscaped courtyard features seating and a walking path for exercise and the enjoyment of all. Visit Banwell Gardens Care Centre for more information.