Use of Combination Thermal Therapy and Radiation in Breast-Conserving Treatment of Extensive Intraductal Breast Cancer
Abstract
This research supports the development of a technique for breast cancer treatment using ultrasound hyperthermia (heat treatments produced by sound waves) in addition to standard treatment using radiation therapy. The rationale is that treatment of early stage breast cancer (Ductal Carcinoma in Situ, DCIS, and Extensive Intraductal Carcinoma, EIC) is based on the hypoxic (low oxygen) environment in parts of the tumor region that causes tumor cells to be less sensitive to the killing effects of radiation and more sensitive to the killing effects of hyperthermia. Hyperthermia has the potential of increasing local tumor control and may eliminate the need for disfiguring mastectomy. A breast treatment applicator and the associated instrumentation has been completed. The applicator consists of 384 ultrasound transducers in a cylindrical geometry, specifically designed for hyperthermia of the intact breast. The results of the acceptance testing are presented in this progress report. The breast treatment system allows hyperthermia of a quadrant of the breast, half the breast or the whole breast. A device evaluation with ten patients will test how to operate the therapy machine with minimal toxicity and discomfort to the patients. An Investigational Device Exemption has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADB231640
Entities
People
- Goran K. Svensson
Organizations
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center