Brachy is derived from the Greek word meaning short. Brachytherapy delivers an intense form of radiation over a short distance through small needles or catheters directly into the tumor site, or near the site, to destroy cancer cells. Under ultrasound visualization, the seeds are delivered to the tumor with precise accuracy. Brachytherapy differs from the standard external beam radiation treatment, which is delivered by a beam of radiation from an external machine. For some patients a combination of external beam radiation and brachytherapy is most effective. Brachytherapy may help cure cancer or help relieve pain associated with some cancers.

This special cap can actually slow or even stop GBM tumor cells from growing and dividing, and may also cause some cancer cells to die.

A large clinical study showed that Optune should be worn for at least 75% of the time (18 hours per day) to get the best response from treatment. Our patients who begin treatment with Optune need to work with their NROC radiation oncologist for an individualized plan.

Continuous treatment with Optune can be received almost anywhere. If your doctor says it’s all right, you can use Optune while you go about your daily routine at work, while traveling, and at social functions. You can see patient testimonials about Optune at www.optune.com/hear-from-optune-users.

The Optune device is generally covered by insurance. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), a group of leading cancer centers, says that
research evidence supports using Optune and gives it its highest “category one recommendation” for newly diagnosed GBM patients.