There is a huge explosion of new technologies that can make a big difference in the treatment of cancer and tumors, getting doctors closer to being able to cure diseases.
FERMONT, CA: Cancer treatment is constantly improving. While technology continues to evolve, the medical community is continuously searching for new and more effective ways of fighting against cancer through personalized care and treatment. The development of new technology is rapid, and exciting innovations are on the horizon. Here are a few of the state-of-the-art innovations that boost cancer treatment.
Vascular-Targeted Photodynamic (VTP) Therapy
The technology uses a light-sensitive drug and thin optical fibers that provide illumination to destroy tumors with virtually no side effects through a specific wavelength. The drug is injected into the flow of blood. The medicine creates volatile molecules called free radicals when it experiences the light from the fibers. These free radicals destroy tumor cells.
Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT)
One of the problems with existing radiation treatment is that it often destroys healthy tissues and organs. In a few situations, this can be dangerous and life-threatening. IMRT computes and delivers radiation directly to cancer cells from different angles using advanced computer programs. This allows people with cancer to receive higher, more effective radiation doses while minimizing damage to the healthy tissues and organs around it. It increases the chance of recovery and decreases the likelihood of side effects.
Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT)
Tumors can develop and even spread from one part of the body to other regions. IGRT has a distinct ability to detect, measure, and match the dimensions of the tumor with a high radiation dose. This makes it possible for physicians to target cancer.
Nanotech
There is a reason to believe that in the field of oncology, nanotech might soon have a major impact. The magnetic properties of nanoparticles can be used to improve early detection and diagnosis— something that would drastically improve the chances of survival rates in many types of cancers like liver cancer. Current diagnostic techniques, such as MRI or ultrasound, typically only identify liver tumors when they are about 5 centimeters in diameter.
Telemedicine and Medical Applications
Data science includes real-world data and artificial intelligence and has potential uses for medical applications, including telemedicine. Telemedicine provides access to quality medical care for patients in remote locations who are seriously ill or immobilized by recent surgery.
Enhanced Imaging Techniques
Biopharmaceutical developments, including immuno-oncology, cell, and gene therapy, could not have evolved without technological advances. Tech innovation has also benefited from non-invasive surgical interventions, including robotics and advanced imaging techniques that could reduce the risk of complications. Another important discovery that could help patients with cancer in the future is 3D printing and bio-printing's ability to replace cancerous tissues or organs.
All these developments show great potential, and some of them are already in use. With digital technology beginning to deliver better and less invasive cancer treatment strategies, more patients and healthcare providers are expected to acclimatize with the digital age. Digital technology promises to create novel care delivery models that empower people suffering from cancer.
