PLEASANT HILL, Calif., March 9 /PRNewswire/ -- Advances in the world of radiation therapy have led to the development of a new procedure for the treatment of early stage breast cancer, non-melanoma skin cancers, and some gynecologic cancers.  

Diablo Valley Oncology/Hematology Medical Group at the California Cancer and Research Institute is pleased to announce that they recently received state approval to be the only facility in Northern California to offer a new breakthrough radiation therapy for cancer patients.

Electronic Brachytherapy vs. Traditional Radiation

Diablo Valley Oncology's new advanced Electronic Brachytherapy system is very different from conventional brachytherapy because instead of a radioactive source, the eBx system uses a miniaturized X-ray tube that is inserted directly into the tumor site.  "This means that the source is not continually radioactive; it can be turned on and off as appropriate to deliver precisely localized, targeted radiation treatments which protect healthy tissues," says Sachin Kamath, MD, Director of Radiation Oncology at the cancer center.  "The fact it can be used to deliver radiation in minimally shielded therapeutic settings gives us a different way to administer therapy. Treatment can be performed without the need for a shielded room, allowing the radiation oncologist and other medical personnel to be present during treatment delivery and minimizing patient anxiety."

"Electronic Brachytherapy allows us to focus the radiation 'more tightly' around the tumor target, compared to external beam radiotherapy or radioactive isotope-based brachytherapy systems," says Dr. Kamath.  Xoft eliminates the use of radioactive isotopes, resulting in less exposure to radiation, fewer side effects, and excellent outcomes for patients.

Shorter treatment, less radiation

One of the biggest benefits to Electronic Brachytherapy is that it requires fewer sessions than traditional radiation:  

• Most women with early stage breast cancer who need radiation treatment undergo whole breast irradiation, which usually requires 6 to 7 weeks (30 to 35 treatment sessions).  Some of these women are candidates for partial breast irradiation with Electronic Brachytherapy, which can be completed in 5 days.  
• Non-melanoma skin cancers are often treated with 6 to 7 weeks of conventional external beam radiotherapy.  With Electronic Brachytherapy, skin cancers can be treated in as little as 5 sessions.  
• Some women with gynecologic cancers require radiation treatment after surgery.  The treatment may involve a combination of external beam radiotherapy and/or brachytherapy.  With Electronic Brachytherapy the treatment can generally be completed in less than 5 sessions.

"We are dedicated to bringing the best, most comprehensive and innovative cancer care to patients in the San Francisco  Bay Area.  We are so excited to introduce the Xoft Electronic Brachytherapy System as a possible treatment for early stage breast cancer, skin cancers, and some gynecologic cancers," said Dr. Kamath.  

Diablo Valley Oncology encourages newly diagnosed patients with early stage breast cancer, skin cancers, and some gynecologic cancers to call to learn if this newer and safer form of radiation treatment is right for them.  

925-677-5041 or visit www.DiabloValleyOncology.md

SOURCE Diablo Valley Oncology/Hematology Medical Group

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