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Carpenè S, Silvestri B, Bertinazzi M, Armato E, Amadori M, Spinato R, de Terlizzi F, Azzarello G. Electrochemotherapy as adjuvant treatment in a sinonasal mucosal melanoma in elderly patient: a case report. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2024; 281:3853-3858. [PMID: 38634895 DOI: 10.1007/s00405-024-08606-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sinonasal Mucosal Melanoma (SNMM) is a rare but aggressive disease. Surgery with free margins, when feasible, is the treatment of choice. In the last three decades, electrochemotherapy (ECT) has emerged as a local ablative procedure, performed with the Cliniporator, for cutaneous and mucosal tumours of different histology. We present a case report of an ECT treatment performed by means of a new endoscopic electrode, on an elderly patient affected by primary SNMM. METHODS An 88-year-old man with a diagnosis of SNMM (cT4aN0M0)-Stage IV, of the left nasal fossa presented at our institution. Symptoms were epistaxis and complete left nasal obstruction. He refused sinonasal extended surgery and radiotherapy. He underwent a tumor debulking followed by ECT exclusively for symptom control, with palliative intent. RESULTS The patient underwent SNMM debulking under general anaesthesia, followed by ECT on tumour margins. After the procedure, he had been free from symptoms for 5 months, with a good quality of life. Local recurrence was controlled with a new local debulking and ECT procedure on margins. The patient remained symptom free for the next 4 months. Seventeen months after diagnosis, the patient is mild symptomatic for sinonasal disease. Therefore, he developed a systemic disease progression. CONCLUSIONS In our experience, ECT can be used as an adjuvant tool for symptom and local control in SNMM when extended surgery is out of curative intent or unfeasible. As expected, ECT does not appear to have any effect on systemic disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Carpenè
- Otolaryngology Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale Socio Sanitaria (AULSS) 3 Serenissima - Ospedale di Mirano, Venice, Italy
| | - Barbara Silvestri
- Oncology and Haematology Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale Socio Sanitaria (AULSS) 3 Serenissima - Ospedale di Mirano, Venice, Italy.
| | - Martina Bertinazzi
- Otolaryngology Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale Socio Sanitaria (AULSS) 3 Serenissima - Ospedale di Mirano, Venice, Italy
| | - Enrico Armato
- Otolaryngology Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale Socio Sanitaria (AULSS) 3 Serenissima - Ospedale di Mirano, Venice, Italy
| | - Maurizio Amadori
- Otolaryngology Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale Socio Sanitaria (AULSS) 3 Serenissima - Ospedale di Mirano, Venice, Italy
| | - Roberto Spinato
- Otolaryngology Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale Socio Sanitaria (AULSS) 3 Serenissima - Ospedale di Mestre, Venice, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Azzarello
- Oncology and Haematology Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale Socio Sanitaria (AULSS) 3 Serenissima - Ospedale di Mirano, Venice, Italy
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Bertino G, Minuti M, Groselj A, Jamsek C, Silvestri B, Carpene S, Matteucci P, Riva G, Pecorari G, Mascherini M, Kjær Lønkvist C, Muir T, Kunte C, de Terlizzi F, Sersa G. Electrochemotherapy (ECT) in treatment of mucosal head and neck tumors. An international network for sharing practices on ECT (InspECT) study group report. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF SURGICAL ONCOLOGY 2024; 50:108473. [PMID: 38870873 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejso.2024.108473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
The aim of this multicenter study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of electrochemotherapy (ECT) for the treatment of mucosal tumors in the head and neck. A total of 71 patients with 84 nodules of different histologies in the oral cavity, pharynx and larynx treated by ECT were evaluated. The data were collected from the InspECT database from 10 participating centers throughout Europe. Primary and recurrent/secondary tumors of different histologies were treated. The overall response rate was 65 %, with a 33 % complete response rate with limited side effects. The response rates of the primary and secondary tumors were not different. However, smaller tumors responded better than tumors larger than 3 cm in diameter. Furthermore, the tumors that were treated with curative intent responded significantly better than those treated with palliative intent. This study demonstrated the feasibility, safety and effectiveness of ECT in a larger cohort of patients with mucosal lesions in the head and neck region. Based on the available data, ECT can be used for the treatment of recurrent and, in some cases, primary mucosal tumors located in the oral cavity, larynx, and pharynx. A better response was obtained in patients with smaller primary tumors treated with curative intent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Bertino
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, 27100, Pavia, Italy.
| | - Marta Minuti
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo Foundation, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Ales Groselj
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Cervicofacial Surgery, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Zaloska 2, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Crt Jamsek
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Cervicofacial Surgery, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Zaloska 2, 1000, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Barbara Silvestri
- Oncology and Haematology Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale Socio Sanitaria (AULSS) 3 Serenissima - Ospedale di Mirano, Venice, Italy.
| | - Silvia Carpene
- Otolaryngology Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale Socio Sanitaria (AULSS) 3 Serenissima - Ospedale di Mirano, Venice, Italy.
| | - Paolo Matteucci
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Hull University Teaching Hospitals National Health Service (NHS) Trust, Hull, UK.
| | - Giuseppe Riva
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Otolaryngology Clinic, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
| | - Giancarlo Pecorari
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Otolaryngology Clinic, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
| | - Matteo Mascherini
- Department of Surgical Sciences, IRCCS Polyclinic Hospital San Martino, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Camilla Kjær Lønkvist
- Department of Oncology, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, 2730, Herlev, Denmark.
| | - Tobian Muir
- Department of Plastic Surgery, South Tees NHS Foundation Trust, Middlesbrough TS4 3BW, UK.
| | - Christian Kunte
- Department of Dermatosurgery and Dermatology, Artemed Fachklinik Munich, München, Germany.
| | | | - Gregor Sersa
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia; Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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Čebron Ž, Djokić M, Petrič M, Čemažar M, Bošnjak M, Serša G, Trotovšek B. Intraoperative electrochemotherapy of the posterior resection surface after pancreaticoduodenectomy: Preliminary results of a hybrid approach treatment of pancreatic cancer. Bioelectrochemistry 2024; 155:108576. [PMID: 37748261 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2023.108576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite extensive research in recent decades, pancreatic cancer continues to be among the most lethal forms of cancer, with no substantial increase in survival rates. Local recurrences account for approximately 30 per cent of all disease recurrences. With the intent to improve survival, we designed a novel, hybrid treatment strategy consisting of surgical resection and additional intraoperative electrochemotherapy of the posterior resection surface. We present the study protocols and preliminary findings of a prospective pilot study investigating this treatment approach. METHODS Consenting patients with resectable pancreatic head ductal adenocarcinoma who met the inclusion criteria were enrolled in the study. After surgical resection, electrochemotherapy with bleomycin was performed using plate electrodes to cover the area between anatomical landmarks. RESULTS Electrochemotherapy of the posterior resection surface was feasible in all 7 patients. We observed pancreatic fistula grade B in only one patient; all other noted complications were Clavien-Dindo grade 2 or less. The hospital mortality was 0%. CONCLUSIONS Our preliminary results suggest that a hybrid approach combining surgery with intraoperative electrochemotherapy is safe and feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Žan Čebron
- University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Department of Abdominal Surgery, Zaloska 7, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; University of Ljubljana, Medical Faculty, Vrazov trg 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Mihajlo Djokić
- University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Department of Abdominal Surgery, Zaloska 7, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; University of Ljubljana, Medical Faculty, Vrazov trg 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Miha Petrič
- University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Department of Abdominal Surgery, Zaloska 7, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; University of Ljubljana, Medical Faculty, Vrazov trg 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Maja Čemažar
- Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Department of Experimental Oncology, Zaloska 2, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; University of Primorska, Faculty of Health Sciences, Polje 42, SI-6310 Izola, Slovenia
| | - Maša Bošnjak
- Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Department of Experimental Oncology, Zaloska 2, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Gregor Serša
- Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Department of Experimental Oncology, Zaloska 2, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Health Sciences, Zdravstvena pot 5, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Blaž Trotovšek
- University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Department of Abdominal Surgery, Zaloska 7, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; University of Ljubljana, Medical Faculty, Vrazov trg 2, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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Hadzialjevic B, Omerzel M, Trotovsek B, Cemazar M, Jesenko T, Sersa G, Djokic M. Electrochemotherapy combined with immunotherapy - a promising potential in the treatment of cancer. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1336866. [PMID: 38292489 PMCID: PMC10825954 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1336866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Electrochemotherapy is a novel, locoregional therapy that is used to treat cutaneous and deep-seated tumors. The electric pulses used in electrochemotherapy increase the permeability of the cell membranes of the target lesion and thus enhance the delivery of low-permeant cytotoxic drugs to the cells, leading to their death. It has also been postulated that electrochemotherapy acts as an in situ vaccination by inducing immunogenic cell death. This in turn leads to an enhanced systemic antitumor response, which could be further exploited by immunotherapy. However, only a few clinical studies have investigated the role of combined treatment in patients with melanoma, breast cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. In this review, we therefore aim to review the published preclinical evidence on combined treatment and to review clinical studies that have investigated the combined role of electrochemotherapy and immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Hadzialjevic
- Department of Abdominal Surgery, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Masa Omerzel
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Blaz Trotovsek
- Department of Abdominal Surgery, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Maja Cemazar
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Primorska, Izola, Slovenia
| | - Tanja Jesenko
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Gregor Sersa
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Mihajlo Djokic
- Department of Abdominal Surgery, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Qian K, Zhong Z. Research frontiers of electroporation-based applications in cancer treatment: a bibliometric analysis. BIOMED ENG-BIOMED TE 2023; 68:445-456. [PMID: 37185096 DOI: 10.1515/bmt-2023-0113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Electroporation, the breakdown of the biomembrane induced by external electric fields, has increasingly become a research hotspot for its promising related methods in various kinds of cancers. CONTENT In this article, we utilized CiteSpace 6.1.R2 to perform a bibliometric analysis on the research foundation and frontier of electroporation-based applications in cancer therapy. A total of 3,966 bibliographic records were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection for the bibliometric analysis. Sersa G. and Mir L. M. are the most indispensable researchers in this field, and the University of Ljubljana of Slovenia is a prominent institution. By analyzing references and keywords, we found that, with a lower recurrence rate, fewer severe adverse events, and a higher success rate, irreversible electroporation, gene electrotransfer, and electrochemotherapy are the three main research directions that may influence the future treatment protocol of cancers. SUMMARY This article visualized relevant data to synthesize scientific research on electroporation-based cancer therapy, providing helpful suggestions for further investigations on electroporation. OUTLOOK Although electroporation-based technologies have been proven as promising tools for cancer treatment, its radical mechanism is still opaque and their commercialization and universalization need further efforts from peers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Qian
- Department of High-voltage and Insulation, School of Electrical Engineering, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zilong Zhong
- Research Institute of Foreign Languages, Beijing Foreign Studies University, Beijing, China
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Campana LG, Daud A, Lancellotti F, Arroyo JP, Davalos RV, Di Prata C, Gehl J. Pulsed Electric Fields in Oncology: A Snapshot of Current Clinical Practices and Research Directions from the 4th World Congress of Electroporation. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3340. [PMID: 37444450 PMCID: PMC10340685 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15133340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The 4th World Congress of Electroporation (Copenhagen, 9-13 October 2022) provided a unique opportunity to convene leading experts in pulsed electric fields (PEF). PEF-based therapies harness electric fields to produce therapeutically useful effects on cancers and represent a valuable option for a variety of patients. As such, irreversible electroporation (IRE), gene electrotransfer (GET), electrochemotherapy (ECT), calcium electroporation (Ca-EP), and tumour-treating fields (TTF) are on the rise. Still, their full therapeutic potential remains underappreciated, and the field faces fragmentation, as shown by parallel maturation and differences in the stages of development and regulatory approval worldwide. This narrative review provides a glimpse of PEF-based techniques, including key mechanisms, clinical indications, and advances in therapy; finally, it offers insights into current research directions. By highlighting a common ground, the authors aim to break silos, strengthen cross-functional collaboration, and pave the way to novel possibilities for intervention. Intriguingly, beyond their peculiar mechanism of action, PEF-based therapies share technical interconnections and multifaceted biological effects (e.g., vascular, immunological) worth exploiting in combinatorial strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca G. Campana
- Department of Surgery, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford Rd., Manchester M13 9WL, UK;
| | - Adil Daud
- Department of Medicine, University of California, 550 16 Street, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA;
| | - Francesco Lancellotti
- Department of Surgery, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford Rd., Manchester M13 9WL, UK;
| | - Julio P. Arroyo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA; (J.P.A.); (R.V.D.)
| | - Rafael V. Davalos
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA; (J.P.A.); (R.V.D.)
- Institute for Critical Technology and Applied Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Claudia Di Prata
- Department of Surgery, San Martino Hospital, 32100 Belluno, Italy;
| | - Julie Gehl
- Department of Clinical Oncology and Palliative Care, Zealand University Hospital, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark;
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1165 Copenhagen, Denmark
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Broholm M, Vogelsang R, Bulut M, Stigaard T, Falk H, Frandsen S, Pedersen DL, Perner T, Fiehn AMK, Mølholm I, Bzorek M, Rosen AW, Andersen CSA, Pallisgaard N, Gögenur I, Gehl J. Endoscopic calcium electroporation for colorectal cancer: a phase I study. Endosc Int Open 2023; 11:E451-E459. [PMID: 37180313 PMCID: PMC10169226 DOI: 10.1055/a-2033-9831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and study aims Colorectal cancer is one of the most common malignancies, with approximately 20 % of patients having metastatic disease. Local symptoms from the tumor remain a common issue and affect quality of life. Electroporation is a method to permeabilize cell membranes with high-voltage pulses, allowing increased passage of otherwise poorly permeating substances such as calcium. The aim of this study was to determine the safety of calcium electroporation for advanced colorectal cancer. Patients and methods Six patients with inoperable rectal and sigmoid colon cancer were included, all presenting with local symptoms. Patients were offered endoscopic calcium electroporation and were followed up with endoscopy and computed tomography/magnetic resonance scans. Biopsies and blood samples were collected at baseline and at follow-up, 4, 8, and 12 weeks after treatment. Biopsies were examined for histological changes and immunohistochemically with CD3/CD8 and PD-L1. In addition, blood samples were examined for circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA). Results A total of 10 procedures were performed and no serious adverse events occurred. Prior to inclusion, patients reported local symptoms, such as bleeding (N = 3), pain (N = 2), and stenosis (N = 5). Five of six patients reported symptom relief. In one patient, also receiving systemic chemotherapy, clinical complete response of primary tumor was seen. Immunohistochemistry found no significant changes in CD3 /CD8 levels or cfDNA levels after treatment. Conclusions This first study of calcium electroporation for colorectal tumors shows that calcium electroporation is a safe and feasible treatment modality for colorectal cancer. It can be performed as an outpatient treatment and may potentially be of great value for fragile patients with limited treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malene Broholm
- Center for Surgical Science, Department of Surgery, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Rasmus Vogelsang
- Center for Surgical Science, Department of Surgery, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Mustafa Bulut
- Center for Surgical Science, Department of Surgery, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Trine Stigaard
- Center for Surgical Science, Department of Surgery, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Hanne Falk
- Department of Oncology, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Stine Frandsen
- Center for Experimental Drug and Gene Electrotransfer (C*EDGE), Department of Clinical Oncology and Palliative Care, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark
| | | | - Trine Perner
- Department of Radiology, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Anne-Marie Kanstrup Fiehn
- Center for Surgical Science, Department of Surgery, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Pathology, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark
| | | | - Michael Bzorek
- Department of Pathology, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark
| | | | | | | | - Ismail Gögenur
- Center for Surgical Science, Department of Surgery, Zealand University Hospital, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Julie Gehl
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Oncology, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Herlev, Denmark
- Center for Experimental Drug and Gene Electrotransfer (C*EDGE), Department of Clinical Oncology and Palliative Care, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark
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Vivod G, Jesenko T, Gasljevic G, Kovacevic N, Bosnjak M, Sersa G, Merlo S, Cemazar M. Treatment of vulvar cancer recurrences with electrochemotherapy - a detailed analysis of possible causes for unsuccessful treatment. Radiol Oncol 2023; 57:121-126. [PMID: 36795008 PMCID: PMC10039473 DOI: 10.2478/raon-2023-0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Electrochemotherapy has good local effectiveness in the treatment of vulvar cancer. Most studies have reported the safety and effectiveness of electrochemotherapy for palliative treatment of gynecological cancers and mostly vulvar squamous cell carcinoma. Some tumors, however, fail to respond to electrochemotherapy. The biological features/determinants for the nonresponsiveness are not determined yet. PATIENT AND METHODS A recurrence of vulvar squamous cell carcinoma was treated by electrochemotherapy using intravenous administration of bleomycin. The treatment was performed by hexagonal electrodes according to standard operating procedures. We analyzed the factors that could determine nonresponsiveness to electrochemotherapy. RESULTS Based on the presented case of nonresponsive vulvar recurrence to electrochemotherapy, we hypothesize that the vasculature of the tumors prior to treatment may predict the response to electrochemotherapy. The histological analysis showed minimal presence of blood vessels in the tumor. Thus, low perfusion may reduce drug delivery and lead to a lower response rate because of the minor antitumor effectiveness of vascular disruption. In this case, no immune response in the tumor was elicited by electrochemotherapy. CONCLUSIONS In this case, of nonresponsive vulvar recurrence treated by electrochemotherapy, we analyzed possible factors that could predict treatment failure. Based on histological analysis, low vascularization of the tumor was observed, which hampered drug delivery and distribution and resulted in no vascular disrupting action of electro-chemotherapy. All these factors could contribute to ineffective treatment with electrochemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregor Vivod
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Medical Faculty Ljubljana, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tanja Jesenko
- Medical Faculty Ljubljana, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Gorana Gasljevic
- Department Pathology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Nina Kovacevic
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Medical Faculty Ljubljana, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Health Care Angela Boškin, Jesenice, Slovenia
| | - Masa Bosnjak
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Gregor Sersa
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Sebastjan Merlo
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Medical Faculty Ljubljana, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Medical Faculty, University of Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Maja Cemazar
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Primorska, Izola, Slovenia
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Benedik J, Ogorevc B, Brezar SK, Cemazar M, Sersa G, Groselj A. Comparison of general anesthesia and continuous intravenous sedation for electrochemotherapy of head and neck skin lesions. Front Oncol 2022; 12:1011721. [PMID: 36465339 PMCID: PMC9717680 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1011721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BackgroundElectrochemotherapy of cutaneous tumor nodules requires local or general anesthesia. For multiple and larger nodules, general anesthesia is recommended by standard operating procedures. The choice of general anesthesia is at the discretion of the treating center. Continuous intravenous sedation is also an option. Our study aimed to elucidate the tolerability, safety and possible advantages of continuous intravenous sedation in comparison to general anesthesia in patients undergoing electrochemotherapy.Patients and methodsIn the prospective study, 27 patients undergoing electrochemotherapy were either under general anesthesia or under continuous intravenous sedation. Evaluated were different endpoints, such as feasibility and safety, duration of anesthesia and compliance with the patients.ResultsTen patients were treated under general anesthesia, and 17 patients were under continuous intravenous sedation. The comparison of the approaches indicated that continuous intravenous sedation required a lower overall dosage of propofol, a shorter duration of anesthesia, a shorter time to reach an Aldrete score >8, and greater satisfaction of the patients with the procedure compared to general anesthesia.ConclusionThe results indicate the feasibility and safety of continuous intravenous sedation for patients undergoing electrochemotherapy of cutaneous tumor nodules. This proved the preferred choice of anesthesia due to its shorter duration and better compliance with the patients compared to general anesthesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janez Benedik
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Intensive Care Medicine, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Barbara Ogorevc
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Intensive Care Medicine, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Simona Kranjc Brezar
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Maja Cemazar
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Primorska, Izola, Slovenia
| | - Gregor Sersa
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- *Correspondence: Ales Groselj, ; Gregor Sersa,
| | - Ales Groselj
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Cervicofacial Surgery, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- *Correspondence: Ales Groselj, ; Gregor Sersa,
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Trotovsek B, Hadzialjevic B, Cemazar M, Sersa G, Djokic M. Laparoscopic electrochemotherapy for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma: Technological advancement. Front Oncol 2022; 12:996269. [PMID: 36439427 PMCID: PMC9686426 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.996269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Electrochemotherapy is an effective treatment modality for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Electrochemotherapy for HCC was initially used in the setting of open surgery. Recently, with the development of newer electrodes, percutaneous approaches have also been performed. However, laparoscopic application of electrochemotherapy for HCC has not yet been described. Two patients with unresectable HCC were enrolled in the study. The first patient was not suitable for the percutaneous approach because the tumor was located close to the gallbladder. He also had symptomatic gallstones. The second patient had HCC in close proximity to the stomach and was therefore not suitable for percutaneous access or any other ablative technique. Thus, the laparoscopic approach was chosen, using newly developed Stinger electrodes for the application of electric pulses. After intravenous administration of bleomycin, several sets of electric pulses were delivered to the whole tumor mass in both patients. Ultrasonographically, the coverage of the whole tumor was verified, as described previously. Cholecystectomy was also performed in the first patient. Follow-up abdominal computed tomography showed a complete response of the treated lesions in both patients. Minimally invasive laparoscopic electrochemotherapy is safe, feasible and effective method for the treatment of HCC. It could be used in patients in whom the percutaneous approach is unsafe (proximity to other organs) and in patients with concomitant symptomatic gallstones in whom cholecystectomy is already indicated. This technological approach thus allows broader and minimally invasive clinical applicability of electrochemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blaz Trotovsek
- Department of Abdominal Surgery, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Benjamin Hadzialjevic
- Department of Abdominal Surgery, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Maja Cemazar
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Primorska, Izola, Slovenia
| | - Gregor Sersa
- Department of Experimental Oncology, Institute of Oncology, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Mihajlo Djokic
- Department of Abdominal Surgery, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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