Electrochemotherapy
Electrochemotherapy
About the clinic
The clinic in southern Germany is a private specialist clinic with a focus on oncology. It offers:
Questions about electrochemotherapy?
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Electrochemotherapy: innovative cancer treatment
Electrochemotherapy combines low doses of a chemotherapeutic agent with electrical impulses that are applied directly to the tumor area. These electrical impulses create temporary pores in the cell membrane, allowing the chemotherapeutic agent to penetrate the tumor cells and work effectively. This process, known as reversible electroporation, increases the effectiveness of chemotherapy, especially in tumor tissue.
How does electrochemotherapy work?
The treatment begins with a detailed treatment plan, which includes the optimal dosage of chemotherapy and the exact placement of the electrical impulses. The steps at a glance:
Preparation
Electrochemotherapy is usually carried out under general anesthesia.
Electrodes are either attached to the skin or inserted into the tumor tissue during an operation, depending on the type of tumor and its location.
Administration
After administration of the chemotherapeutic agent, electrical pulses are applied directly to the tumor area.
The number of pulses depends on the size of the tumor.
Duration of treatment
The treatment itself only takes a few minutes.
Depending on the type of procedure, the patient usually stays in hospital for 3 to 8 days.
Repeatability
Electrochemotherapy can be repeated if necessary, with a minimum interval of three weeks between treatments.
Areas of application for electrochemotherapy
Electrochemotherapy is used successfully for a variety of tumors, including
Skin tumors of all kinds
Breast cancer
Head and neck cancer
Pancreatic cancer
Liver carcinomas
Liver metastases, regardless of their origin
Advantages of electrochemotherapy
Effective even with low-dose chemotherapy drugs.
Minimal damage to surrounding tissue.
Can be repeated if necessary.
After treatment: What should I bear in mind?
Healing process
- The treated area may darken and scabs may form.
- It is normal for the affected area to look worse at first before the healing process begins.
Symptoms
- A warm or uncomfortable feeling in the treated area is possible and can last up to two weeks.
- Painkillers can be administered if necessary.
Skin changes
- Changes in pigmentation (lightening or darkening) are possible.
Aftercare
- Slight pain, similar to sore muscles, may occur but usually disappears quickly.
- Our medical team is also available to you after the treatment for follow-up care and the treatment of side effects.
Who is eligible for treatment?
Free advice on electrochemotherapy
Our specialized team will be happy to answer your questions about electrochemotherapy and create an individual treatment plan for you.