Understanding Phototherapy

UNDERSTANDING PHOTOTHERAPY: Q&A WITH STEPHEN

We sat down with Stephen, one of the SCOTT Medical directors and Daavlin's UK & Ireland distributor, to talk all things phototherapy—from how it works to what makes Daavlin cabins stand out in the field of dermatological treatment.

Q: In simple terms, what is phototherapy?

Stephen: Phototherapy is the treatment of dermatological conditions using light therapy—typically UV.

Q: How does a Daavlin UV Cabin work?

Stephen: A cabin works by delivering a predetermined dose of UV light to the patient, tailored to their specific condition and tolerance. Daavlin cabins operate in two treatment modes: Dosimetry and Time. The dosimetry mode uses an internal UV sensor to measure the energy delivered—once the dose is reached, the device switches off automatically.

Q: What types of skin conditions can be treated with UV phototherapy?

Stephen: There are a number of different conditions that can be treated — Psoriasis, Vitiligo, Mycosis fungoides, and Eczema are among the most common.

Q: Are there different types of Daavlin UV cabins?

Stephen: Yes. Daavlin cabins can perform treatments in UVA, UVB Narrowband or a combination of both.

Why Choose Daavlin?

Q: Why would you recommend a Daavlin phototherapy cabin over other brands?

Stephen: Well, for starters that's what we sell! But seriously, Daavlin devices have great features. They include an internal integrated UV sensor which can be recalibrated in real time by the hospitals own physicist, this is not possible on other devices and so it means the devices do not require calibration factors when performing treatments.

They are easy to use and they have a secure PIN access.

They require less power that other devices and do not have lamp starters which helps extend the life of the lamps.

They have an automatic cooling system which independently and automatically controls the temperature of the lamps in the various zones of the device. This automatic cooling system helps maintain and extend the lamp life making the devices more economic to run. 

They have double doors for wheelchair and reduced mobility access unlike the other devices on the market.

The can perform treatments in dose or time and are available with the ClearLink touchscreen controller or with a PC and Daavlin’s SmartTouch software.

The devices also come with a three year warranty.

The Journey with Daavlin

Q: How long have you been working with Daavlin?

Stephen: SCOTT Medical have been distributors since 2008. Previously, we were Cosmedico distributors. However, when Cosmedico closed their former director of operations moved to Daavlin and a number of the Cosmedico distributors followed suit. It was a natural move.

Installing and Supporting Phototherapy Systems

Q: What's involved in installing a Daavlin UV cabin?

Stephen: Daavlin cabins are one of the easiest to install. The devices can be delivered fully assembled, or in two halves. When we arrive onsite we disassemble and remove the existing device if necessary and the wheel in the Daavlin cabin, install the controller, wire the power and switch on. We do of course visit the sites prior to perform site surveys and plan out the logistics of the install.

Q: How long does installation take?

Stephen: Typically, it takes around 4-5 hours to install a new cabin. This includes disassembly and removal of the old machine, setting up the new one, cleaning up, and training the users and engineers.  This is helped by the prep we do beforehand in our warehouse before we load up the vans. 

Q: What kind of ongoing support do you provide?

Stephen: We offer support for the life of the device. This includes ongoing maintenance, servicing and calibration on an annual basis. If the hospitals own engineers and medical physicists service the devices themeslves we still provide support. Whether it's questions or training over the phone or onsite. If they require help, we're here to assist! 

Stay tuned for Part 2, where Stephen dives into common clinic questions, maintenance tips, and the most memorable install of his career...

Want to learn more about Daavlin? Get in touch: info@scottmedical.com +44 28 9266 5482.