Innovative new technique of partial breast irradiation for early stage breast cancer

An innovative new technique of partial breast irradiation for early stage breast cancer has been developed in Canada. This technique, a world first, was presented at the annual scientific meeting of the Canadian Association of Radiation Oncologists this week.

The pilot study has used this treatment technique in 36 patients to date, as the sole method of radiation treatment for early stage breast cancer. It involves implanting permanent radioactive seeds directly into the area of the tumour under local anaesthetic in a single one hour session instead of daily treatments over several weeks.

"This technique allows for radiation to be focused directly to the small area where the tumour was removed, without the need to irradiate the entire breast", states Dr. Jean Philippe Pignol, of the Toronto Sunnybrook Regional Cancer Centre and CARO researcher. Clinical assessments after the implant on these 36 women, demonstrated a much better tolerance compared to standard radiation treatment. One patient presented with a mild skin discolouration and two patients experienced minor bruising for a few days after the implant.

"Intermediate analysis suggests that this method of treatment for early stage breast cancer is well tolerated and also more convenient for patients. The expected benefit is a reduced treatment burden regarding time commitment and less acute skin reactions. Long term tolerance and local control outcomes are currently being collected in an ongoing Phase 1/11 clinical trial with an accrual target of 65 patients", states Dr. Eileen Rakovitch, breast cancer radiation oncologist specialist in Toronto.

Both Dr. Pignol and Dr. Rakovitch are members of the Canadian Association of Radiation Oncologists, a national organization which is the official voice of radiation oncology.