For the first time in 15 years, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a product which may treat mesothelioma. Used along with chemotherapy, your doctor may prescribe the NovoTTF-100L System for you to use at home.
This recently-approved treatment for malignant pleural mesothelioma could be effective in destroying inoperable cancerous tumors. This System may also help in cases where radiation is not an effective treatment option.
How does the system work?
The System is based on the use of “transducer arrays,” which convert electric energy into ultrasound energy when connected to your chest. Since you can use the system anywhere, in addition to the insulated ceramic disks which convert energy, it comes with connection cables, a generator, power supply, battery, battery charger and carrying bag.
The FDA believes the alternating electrical fields will:
- Disrupt the division of cancer cells
- Inhibit the growth of cancerous tumors
- Kill cancer cells
Unfortunately, the NovoTTF-100L System is not known to cure mesothelioma. However, clinical studies suggest that the combination of a 2-drug chemo regimen and System use can increase your life expectancy.
Patients reportedly experienced minimal problems during the clinical trial
The largest concern among clinical trial participants was skin irritation. Fifty-seven of the 80 participants expressed concerns of blisters, small sores or a rash. However, you can move the arrays and treat irritated skin with steroid cream.
If you have a sensitivity to the medical gel used in electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) or electrocardiogram (ECG) stickers, researchers do not recommend you use this System. Also, considering the electrical impulses involved, you ought not use it in combination with an implanted electronic medical device, such as a defibrillator or pacemaker.
If you have mesothelioma, you might keep an open mind about various treatment options. And if you cannot operate on your tumors, you should ask your doctor whether they recommend this System for you.