Frequently Asked Questions

How does it work?

The Biogun kills the microbes causing an infection using a concentrated stream of electrically-charged air particles - more precisely the superoxide radical anion (O2.^-). Technically, this acts as a nucleophile on the phospholipid bilayer, causing a de-esterification of the fatty acids and weakening the cell membrane, leading to lysis. The practical result is that the micro-organisms "burst". Healthy skin cells, however, are protected by a jacket of the protein keratin.

Is there a limit?

Conditions which do not include an element of infection are unlikely to be helped by the Biogun, and all internal infections are also outside the scope of the treatment. There are some borderline cases where an external infection is "refreshed" from an internal source.

How is the Biogun used in practice?

Using the Biogun is simplicity itself. The compact, mains-powered base unit is connected by a flexible cable to a handpiece in which a small assembly known as an emitter is mounted. The emitter ends in a thin, flexible wire with a specially-shaped point, and this is where the superoxide anions are generated. Treatment consists of aiming the emitter at the infected surface from about 6mm away. If the area of infection is larger than about 2 mm² the emitter should be moved across it slowly in a "ploughing" pattern. Treatment times vary according to the severity of the infection and the physical nature of the site: however, smart circuitry within the unit senses the distance between the emitter and the surface being treated - which can vary within wide limits - and maintains a constant optimum dosage level automatically. Both patient and practitioner wear conductive wristbands to provide a return path for the tiny electric currents generated in the process. All the patient normally feels is a gentle, cooling breeze.

How safe is it?

Tests on both human skin and cultured human keratinocytes have shown that the Biogun has no apparent effect on the viability or characteristics of the cells, even over a much longer period of exposure than would be normal in practice. The conclusion is that it is impossible to administer an overdose. Although the device uses a high voltage to generate the anions there is no danger involved, as the current (which determines the physiological effects) is limited to an ultra-safe value - some 300 times less than the British Standards Institution's lowest safety limit for direct current through the human body.

What precautions and contraindications have to be observed?

What accessories do I need?

None. The Biogun comes complete with everything you need to get you up and running straight away. The only "optional extra" available is a robust polypropylene carrying case for practices with a strong domiciliary element.

Which micro-organisms have so far proved susceptible?

Clinical trials have been carried out in Dentistry and Chiropody.

In summary, the results showed: "The Biogun exerted a significant effect on the perceived treatment needs of primary root caries lesions. This effect was manifest after 3 and 6 months to a significantly greater extent in the test group compared with the control group."

The chiropody field trials were carried out in general practice by chiropodist Clive Vernon of Sawbridgeworth in Hertfordshire, UK. The success of the Biogun against fungal and bacterial infections was already well attested, so the trials were conducted on 207 patients with verrucae pedis. Three of the patients did not complete the treatment; of the remaining 204, all were completely cured - 100% success!

"Which is why," says Vernon, "after using every form of treatment for verrucae over the last 38 years, the Biogun is my first and only choice for these troublesome lesions."