In deep hyperthermia, heat in combination with radiation or chemotherapy used to treat tumors in the pelvis and abdominal cavity.
In patients who are on cervical cancer suffering and ineligibility for chemotherapy, deep hyperthermia combined with radiation may be a promising treatment option.
Prior to this procedure, a CT scan is performed to map the tumor. In the deep hyperthermia treatment, temperature probes are placed externally and internally to closely monitor temperatures during the treatment.
A water-filled ring is placed around the patient’s abdominal cavity, after which a beam of electromagnetic energy is directed at the tumor. The tumor is heated to a temperature of approximately 40°C. The heat effect is measured continuously and can be tempered if it gets too hot. The temperature drops immediately when the appliance is switched off.
Deep hyperthermia widens the blood vessels around the tumor, allowing oxygen-rich red blood cells to enter the tumor.
When the patient is subsequently exposed to radiation, the beam reacts with the high doses of oxygen in the tumor and kills additional tumor cells. Or if the patient is receiving chemotherapy after deep hyperthermia, it can increase blood flow to the tumor area, allowing more chemotherapy to get to the tumor.
The deep hyperthermia treatment can last up to two hours and is usually performed twice a week during the radiation or chemotherapy treatment.
It is advisable to discuss with your doctor which cancer therapy is best for you.