What is the new focused ultrasound treatment for glioblastoma?

The focused ultrasound treatment aims to temporarily open the blood-brain barrier, allowing chemotherapy drugs to reach and attack brain tumors more effectively.

How does the focused ultrasound therapy improve glioblastoma survival?

Data from a clinical trial suggests that patients receiving oral chemotherapy combined with focused ultrasound have a survival advantage and improved tumor control compared to those receiving chemotherapy alone.

What is the prognosis for glioblastoma patients undergoing this new treatment?

One patient in the trial, Becca Valle, is in remission with no evidence of disease four years after her diagnosis, which is a rare positive outcome for glioblastoma.

Home / Health / Glioblastoma Trial Offers Hope with New Ultrasound Tech

Glioblastoma Trial Offers Hope with New Ultrasound Tech

7 Feb

•

Summary

Focused ultrasound briefly opens blood-brain barrier.
Opening barrier allows chemotherapy to reach brain tumors.
Trial shows improved survival rates for glioblastoma patients.

Glioblastoma Trial Offers Hope with New Ultrasound Tech

A novel clinical trial is showing promising results in treating glioblastoma, a deadly brain cancer. The study utilizes focused ultrasound technology to briefly open the blood-brain barrier, a natural defense that typically prevents medications from reaching the brain. This innovative technique allows chemotherapy drugs to penetrate the brain more effectively.

Becca Valle, a participant in the trial, experienced this treatment after being diagnosed with glioblastoma. She underwent several focused ultrasound sessions over six months, alongside chemotherapy. The treatment, which involves a device worn around the head, has demonstrated early evidence of success, with a significant percentage of patients showing improved survival.

Researchers observed that patients receiving oral chemotherapy combined with focused ultrasound experienced a survival advantage compared to those receiving chemotherapy alone. This suggests the monthly treatment is not only safe but may also enhance tumor control and prolong life. Further research is ongoing to confirm these findings and explore different chemotherapy combinations.