Weberneedle® endo and compact: a comprehensive description

Introduction

Weberneedle® endo and compact are advanced medical laser devices developed by Dr. Hans-Michael Weber, a pioneer in low-level laser therapy (LLLT). These devices are designed for a wide range of therapeutic applications, including intravenous, interstitial and topical laser therapy. Weber Medical GmbH, founded in 2003, has established itself as a leading player in medical laser technology and offers innovative healthcare solutions in over 50 countries.

Weberneedle® endo

Weberneedle® endo is specially developed for direct irradiation of blood, tissue and joints from the inside, with a penetration depth of up to 12 cm. This CE-certified device combines several laser wavelengths to achieve optimal therapeutic effect when treating various medical conditions.

Modular design

The device has a flexible and modular design that makes it possible to combine up to twelve different laser modules at the same time. Available wavelengths include ultraviolet, blue, green, yellow, red, and infrared light. This combination of different wavelengths allows adaptation to specific treatment needs and maximizes therapeutic results.

Areas of use

The Weberneedle® endo is suitable for a number of therapeutic applications:

• Intravenous laser therapy (IVL): Irradiation of the blood to stimulate the immune system, improve microcirculation and increase oxygen transport. This can be effective in the treatment of chronic diseases, infections and metabolic disorders.
• Interstitial laser therapy: Direct irradiation of deep tissue and organs using special optical fibres. This is often used in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, inflammatory conditions and certain types of cancer.
• Intra-articular laser therapy: Treatment of joint ailments such as arthrosis and rheumatoid arthritis by introducing laser light directly into the joint cavity to reduce pain and inflammation and promote the regeneration of cartilage tissue.
• Endonasal and transcranial application: Irradiation through the nasal mucosa or skull to treat neurological conditions, mental disorders and improve cerebral circulation.

Ease of use

An intuitive touch screen makes it easy to adjust all necessary parameters such as laser strength, frequency and treatment duration. Preset protocols are available for different indications, but the user can also customize the settings according to individual needs.

Web needle® compact

Webneedle® compact is designed for non-invasive, topical applications and is ideal for the treatment of superficial tissue injuries, pain management and skin problems. The device is portable and easy to use, making it suitable for both clinical and home use.

Areas of use

• Local pain treatment: Treatment of acute and chronic pain such as muscle tension, tendinitis and joint pain by stimulating natural healing processes and reducing inflammation.
• Laser acupuncture: Stimulation of acupuncture points without the use of needles, which provides a painless and non-invasive treatment method for various conditions such as stress, sleep disorders and digestive problems.
• Dermatological applications: Treatment of skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis and wound healing by promoting cell renewal and improving microcirculation.
• Transcranial laser therapy: Stimulation of brain activity to treat neurological disorders, improve cognitive function and relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Photodynamic therapy (PDT)

Photodynamic therapy is an advanced medical treatment that combines light-sensitive substances (photosensitizers) with specific wavelengths of light to destroy pathological tissue, especially cancer cells and infected cells. The Webneedle® systems are particularly effective for PDT due to their ability to deliver precise and controlled light doses at optimal wavelengths.

Mechanism of action

1. Administration of photosensitizers: A light-sensitive substance is introduced into the body, either intravenously or topically, depending on the treatment area. These substances accumulate selectively in pathological cells such as cancer cells or infected tissues.
2. Activation with laser light: After a specific incubation time, the affected area is illuminated with laser light of a specific wavelength that matches the absorption spectrum of the photosensitizer. The Webneedle® systems can deliver precise wavelengths such as blue (405 nm), green (532 nm), yellow (589 nm) and red (655 nm) light, depending on the photosensitizer used.
3. Production of reactive oxygen species (ROS): When the photosensitizer is activated by the light, energy is transferred to oxygen molecules in the vicinity, which leads to the formation of ROS. These highly reactive molecules cause damage to cell membranes, proteins and DNA, resulting in cell death.
4. Immunological response: In addition to direct cell death, PDT can stimulate the body's immune system by releasing tumor-associated antigens, which contributes to a systemic anti-tumor effect.

Advantages of PDT

• Selectivity: PDT specifically targets pathological cells, which minimizes damage to healthy tissue and reduces side effects compared to traditional treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
• Minimally invasive: The treatment requires no surgical interventions and usually has a short recovery time.
• Flexibility: Can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, including various types of cancer, skin conditions and infections.
• Repeatability: PDT can be repeated multiple times without cumulative toxicity, which is beneficial for chronic or recurrent conditions.

Used photosensitizers

Weber Medical uses a variety of natural and synthetic photosensitizers in PDT, including:

• Indocyanine green (ICG): Absorbs near-infrared light and is often used for deep tissue penetration, ideal for treating internal organs and deep tumors.
• Chlorine E6: Effective with red light and is often used in cancer treatment due to its high tumor selectivity and rapid elimination from the body.
• Curcumin: A natural photosensitizer with anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties, used in the treatment of various inflammatory and infectious conditions.
• Hypericin: Extracted from St. John's wort, effective against various cancer cells and some viral infections.

Safety and side effects

PDT with Weberneedle® systems is generally safe and well tolerated. Possible side effects are usually mild and short-lived, including local redness, swelling or mild discomfort in the treated area. Correct dosage of photosensitizer and light, as well as adequate protection against unnecessary light exposure after treatment, is important to minimize side effects.

Ttechnical specifications for Weberneedle® endo

• Input power: 85-265V – 1.0A 47/63Hz
• Security class: Class 1
• Laser class: 3B
• Number of laser channels: 12
• Dimensions:
  
  • Height: 16.4 cm
  • Width (with handle): 60.5 cm
  • Width (without handle): 40 cm
  • Depth: 30 cm
    
    
• Weight: 7.5 kg

Accessories

• Weberneedle® lasercath: Special catheters for intravenous and interstitial laser application.
• Weberneedle® plastic needle 22 G: For gentle and safe intravascular access.
• Weberneedle® butterfly 21 G: Suitable for quick and easy intravenous administration.
• Weberneedle® IV Catheter (Y-type) 20 G: Allows simultaneous administration of fluids and laser light.
• Webneedle® lasercath with puncture needle 21 G: For precise interstitial laser therapy.

Conclusion

Webneedle® endo and compact represent advanced technology in low-level laser therapy, with extensive applications ranging from pain management to advanced cancer therapy through photodynamic therapy. The modular and flexible design allows adaptation to individual patient needs, while the high quality and safety ensure effective and reliable treatment results. These devices provide healthcare professionals with powerful tools to improve patients' health and quality of life through innovative and evidence-based therapeutic methods.