Electrochemotherapy
The application of these pulses allow for alterations in the cell membrane through an electrically mediated reorganization of the plasma membrane of cells such that there is increased uptake of the chemotherapy drugs. Ultimately this leads to cancer cell death.
In humans, electrochemotherapy is being used in approximately 40 cancer centers in Europe and the United States. Current clinical use of electrochemotherapy is focused on slowing progressive disease; however, it can also be used as cytoreductive treatment before surgical resection in an organ-sparing attempt.
It has been used in such a setting before a reconstructive surgery for mucocutaneous melanoma and in digital chondrosarcoma, rescuing the finger from amputation. Because of its vascular disruption effect, electrochemotherapy is also effective in the treatment of bleeding metastases. Furthermore, it could be used to treat basal cell carcinoma of the face. Its beneficial anti-tumor effects have been proven, giving better cosmetic results than excisional surgery does alone.
Electrochemotherapy in veterinary oncology (dogs, cats, exotics and horses), has been dominated by centers in Brazil, France, Italy, Ireland, Slovenia and the United Kingdom. Now it is starting to take hold in the United States & Canada with facilities that have trained specialists in this therapy. Dr. Chelsea Tripp was the first veterinary Oncologist to bring this technique to the West Coast of the United States and has the most experience in the Seattle area regarding this technique.
Inquire whether your pet’s tumor would be a candidate for this therapy.