Electrochemotherapy

We are excited to announce a new addition to our specialty services with the introduction of Targeted Electrochemotherapy (ECT), in collaboration with Dr. Joseph A. Impellizeri, DVM, DACVIM (Oncology), MRCVS.

This advanced cancer treatment is now available at our Boca Raton location.

For more information on these services, you can visit Dr. Impellizeri’s website:
petcancerinformation.com

What is Electrochemotherapy?

Electrochemotherapy is a localized treatment that requires giving a very low dose of chemotherapy. Injection of the drug is combined with local application of electric pulses that increases the drugs effect targeting the cancer.

When is Electrochemotherapy used?

Electrochemotherapy is a safe, simple, and effective cancer treatment and most cancers respond to the therapy. It is particularly useful for lesions that cannot be removed with surgery (inoperable), or have proven resistant to chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Our unique team has experience with every cancer and anatomical location.

How is Electrochemotherapy given?

While your loved one is under a brief anesthesia (~15-25minutes), we administer a low-dose of chemotherapy. Following this chemotherapy administration, an electrode, which consists of a number of very small, thin, needles is inserted, allowing a brief electrical current to open up the cells thereby allowing the chemotherapy to enter the cell, killing the cancer via a targeted placement.

What can be expected after Electrochemotherapy?

Following the procedure the treated area look red and irritated for up to 48 hrs. An e-collar may be needed to prevent your loved one from licking or chewing. Lesions may scab, turn dark and may even look worse than before treatment. This is cancer dying and a normal and expected reaction. It is not painful and does not always happen.
No side effects are typically seen. Treated lesions may show darker or lighter pigmentation.

Can Electrochemotherapy be combined with other cancer treatments or used more than once?

Electrochemotherapy may be combined with standard therapies such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy and surgery. We often do this for the best outcomes.
Multiple treatments are possible– if needed. This will be determined at the examination.