John Theurer Cancer Center Offers Breakthrough Radiation Measurement Technology

HACKENSACK, N.J., May 17 /PRNewswire/ -- John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center announced today that it is one of two cancer centers in the tri-state area currently implanting a wireless radiation sensor, known as DVS^® (Dose Verification System). John Theurer Cancer Center radiation oncologists can now receive data immediately post- treatment on the precise amount of radiation being delivered to tumors and surrounding tissue for prostate cancer treatments.

"Traditional radiation therapies rely on knowing the exact location of the tumor, but provide no guidance on quantifying the actual dose being delivered to the tumor," said Glen Gejerman, M.D., Co-Chief, Urologic Oncology and Director, Radiation Oncology, John Theurer Cancer Center. "With this implantable device, we can now offer critical same day radiation dose adjustments."

The DVS sensors -- just 2.1mm in diameter and 20mm long -- are implanted during a minimally invasive procedure and gather data on the precise amount of radiation being delivered to the tumor.  Wireless technology transmits the information to a hand-held monitor and the amount of radiation absorbed is read at the end of each of the daily treatments, enabling doctors to verify that the patient is receiving the prescribed dose.

Deviations in dose delivered to the tumor, or radiation accidentally administered to normal tissue, can have a profound impact on long-term survival rates and quality of life for patients treated with radiation therapy. Accurate delivery of the appropriate dose of radiation is critical to tumor control and cure rate. A long-term clinical study of nearly 230 prostate cancer patients demonstrated statistical significance between dose and benefit, highlighting the importance of measuring the amount of dose delivered. (1)

This is part of John Theurer Cancer Center's ongoing dedication to improving radiation oncology safety and precision through research and adopting the latest technological advancements. John Theurer Cancer Center is the most experienced cancer center in the tri-state area with this implantable device. Dr. Gejerman and his colleagues at John Theurer Cancer Center plan to continue studying the DVS technology to determine the optimal number of sensors to implant and the most favorable locations in the body to implant them. In doing so, they plan to streamline the process of radiation delivery and make it even more precise.  

"John Theurer Cancer Center is committed to providing extraordinary care by offering patients innovative technologies to help us improve patient outcomes and to tackle the most complicated cases," said Andrew L. Pecora, M.D., F.A.C.P., C.P.E., Chairman and Executive Administrative Director, John Theurer Cancer Center. "We are excited to offer an unprecedented level of precision to physicians and added peace of mind to our prostate cancer patients."

Those interested in more information about the new DVS radiation measurement device offered at John Theurer Cancer Center please call 201-996-2210.

About Prostate Cancer

The causes of prostate cancer are not generally well known, yet it is the most common non-skin cancer in America, affecting one in six men. In 2009, more than 192,000 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer and more than 27,000 men will die from the disease. It is estimated that there are more than 2 million American men currently living with prostate cancer. Radiation is the second most commonly used treatment for prostate cancer.

About John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center

John Theurer Cancer Center at Hackensack University Medical Center is New Jersey's largest and most comprehensive center dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, management, research, screenings, and preventive care as well as survivorship of patients with all types of cancer. The 15 specialized divisions covering the complete spectrum of cancer care have developed a close-knit team of medical, research, nursing, and support staff with specialized expertise that translates into more advanced, focused care for all patients. Each year, more people in the New Jersey/New York metropolitan area turn to the John Theurer Cancer Center for cancer care than to any other facility in New Jersey. Housed within a 775-bed not-for-profit teaching, tertiary care, and research hospital, John Theurer Cancer Center provides state-of-the-art technological advances, compassionate care, research innovations, medical expertise, and a full range of after care services that distinguish John Theurer Cancer Center from other facilities. For more information, visit John Theurer Cancer Center's website at www.humccancer.org.  

About Sicel Technologies

Founded in 1999, and headquartered in Morrisville, North Carolina, Sicel Technologies, Inc., is a privately held, specialty device company focused on the development of revolutionary therapies that significantly impact the treatment of cancer -- a leading cause of death in the U.S., second only to heart disease.  

Sicel Technologies, Inc., developed the Dose Verification System^®, the first U.S. Food & Drug Administration-approved wireless implantable sensors designed to assist clinicians in determining the actual dose of radiation being delivered to the tumor.   The company also makes and markets OneDose™, patient dosimetry verification systems specifically designed for radiation oncology therapy.

(1) Hanks GE, Hanlon AL, Epstein B, et al. Dose Response in Prostate Cancer With 8-12 Years' Follow-Up. Int. J. Radiation Oncology Biol. Phys., Vol. 54, No 2, pp. 427-435, 2002.

SOURCE John Theurer Cancer Center

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