What Happens in a Valeda Suitability Test at Peter Ivins Eye Care?
Introduction: Why a Valeda Suitability Test Matters
The Valeda Photobiomodulation (PBM) System is an exciting, non‑invasive treatment for dry age‑related macular degeneration (AMD). While PBM is not a cure, it has demonstrated improvements in functional vision measures such as contrast sensitivity, reading speed, and quality of life metrics in clinical trials. However—not every patient with dry AMD will benefit equally.
That’s why The Valeda Suitability Test at Peter Ivins Eye Care exists: to provide a comprehensive, evidence‑driven evaluation of your macular health and determine whether PBM therapy is likely to be effective and appropriate for you.
Led by Craig McArthur, internationally recognised key opinion leader and co‑founder of Scotland’s first dedicated macular screening clinic (2008), the test combines state‑of‑the‑art retinal imaging, functional assessments and personalised clinical interpretation.
Step 1: Medical & Vision History Review
Your visit begins with a structured consultation covering:
- Current visual symptoms (distortion, contrast loss, reading difficulty)
- Past eye history (dry AMD, wet AMD, drusen, PEDs)
- Family history of macular disease
- Lifestyle and nutritional risk factors
- Current supplements and medications
This forms the foundation for interpreting your imaging results and determining suitability.
Step 2: Best‑Corrected Visual Acuity & Contrast Sensitivity
We measure your baseline vision using:
- High‑contrast acuity (standard letter chart)
- Low‑contrast acuity (important in early AMD)
These tests help determine how much AMD is impacting day‑to‑day function and whether PBM may help.
Step 3: Ultra‑widefield True‑Colour Imaging (ZEISS CLARUS 500)
Peter Ivins Eye Care was the first in Scotland to adopt the ZEISS CLARUS 500, a world‑leading true‑colour, ultra‑widefield retinal camera.
This imaging allows us to:
- Assess drusen patterns (soft, hard, reticular pseudodrusen)
- Identify pigmentary changes
- Detect early signs of geographic atrophy (GA)
- Map peripheral retina changes that influence progression risk
True‑colour imaging reveals subtle signs that traditional fundus photos may miss.
Step 4: OCT Scanning with ZEISS CIRRUS 6000
The CIRRUS 6000 OCT provides ultra‑high‑resolution cross‑section images of the retina.
We analyse:
- Drusen volume and shape
- RPE integrity (retinal pigment epithelium)
- Early geographic atrophy changes
- Photoreceptor layer health
- Evidence of PEDs (pigment epithelial detachments)
Its FastTrac eye‑tracking ensures perfect alignment between visits—crucial for monitoring treatment response.
Step 5: OCT‑Angiography (OCT‑A)
OCT‑A maps blood flow without dye injection.
We use it to:
- Confirm the absence of neovascularisation (vessel growth)
- Ensure that the eye does not have early wet AMD
- Classify vascular health and risk factors
PBM cannot be delivered to an eye with active wet AMD—OCT‑A is essential for safety.
Step 6: Fundus Autofluorescence (FAF)
Using the CLARUS 500, we capture blue and green FAF to assess metabolic activity in the retina.
FAF highlights:
- Areas of RPE stress (hyper‑autofluorescence)
- Areas of atrophy (hypo‑autofluorescence)
- Patterns that help predict GA progression
This imaging informs whether PBM is likely to stabilise or improve functional outcomes.
Step 7: AI‑Enhanced Analysis
Using ZEISS Retina Workplace and Altris AI, we perform:
- Automated drusen volume analysis
- Progression mapping across visits
- Detection of micro‑changes invisible to the naked eye
- GA risk modelling and structural analysis
AI ensures consistency, accuracy, and the clearest possible understanding of disease trajectory.
Step 8: Valeda Suitability Scoring & Personalised Recommendation
Based on your results, we determine whether you are:
A) Suitable for Valeda PBM therapy
Typically includes patients with:
- Early or intermediate dry AMD
- Soft drusen or drusenoid PEDs
- Contrast sensitivity decline
- Early functional symptoms without wet AMD activity
B) Temporarily unsuitable (requiring monitoring first)
Examples:
- Very early changes without measurable functional deficit
- Co-existing eye disease requiring stabilisation
C) Not suitable (wet AMD or advanced GA)
These patients need alternative management such as:
- Anti‑VEGF injections (for wet AMD)
- Low vision rehabilitation
- Enhanced monitoring pathways
Craig McArthur will explain all findings and discuss the best personalised plan for your condition.
Step 9: Your Personalised Valeda PBM Programme
If you are suitable, we create a tailored plan that includes:
- Number of PBM sessions
- Treatment schedule
- Nutritional and lifestyle optimisation
- Imaging checkpoints (baseline, mid‑course, post‑course)
- Macular pigment optimisation guidance
Every plan is individualised based on imaging biomarkers and functional test results.
Step 10: Education & Next Steps
You leave with:
- A clear understanding of your macular health
- Risk reduction advice (nutrition, smoking, cardiovascular health)
- Home monitoring tools (Amsler grid)
- A PBM treatment roadmap if appropriate
Our goal is for every patient to feel informed, confident and supported.
Valeda treatment – Book Now
…we can help you understand your baseline, your risk, and your options.
📞 Call us: 0141 943 3300
📍 Visit our clinic in Bearsden, Glasgow
📅 Book a Valeda Assessment online
Learn more at www.valedascotland.co.uk
For more information about Valeda treatment visit:
FAQ’s
How long does the test take?
Around 60-90 minutes, depending on imaging requirements.
Does it hurt?
No—imaging is completely non‑invasive.
Can I have PBM if I have wet AMD?
No. PBM is only for dry AMD.
How soon will I know if Valeda is suitable?
Immediately—results are reviewed same‑day.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can self‑refer.