Authors' objectives: This report aims to summarise the available evidence on the use of the GliaSite radiation therapy system in the treatment of brain cancer.

Authors' recommendations: The Gliasite system is an investigational device developed to improve the use of brachytherapy in treatment of brain tumors. It places a high dose of radiation directly into the tissue most likely to contain residual cancer cells following tumor removal. The device (a balloon catheter) is implanted during the surgical procedure conducted to remove the tumor and is later filled with a liquid radiation source containing iodine-125. Both are removed after delivery of a defined radiation dose. The Gliasite system is intended to overcome limitations of earlier brachytherapy methods such as high rates of complications, including infections, and the need for further surgery. The investigators consider that advantages over other types of internal radiation approaches are that the operation is simpler and less expensive and that the patient is more comfortable during treatment. Also, Gliasite provide continuous exposure of tumor cells to radiation during their most sensitive phase. Clinical trials evaluating Gliasite are being conducted under the guidance of the National Cancer Institute's New Approaches to Brain Tumor Therapy program.

Authors' methods: Overview

Project Status: Completed

Year Published: 2000

URL for published report: https://www.ihe.ca/advanced-search?type=1020

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: Canada

Organisation Name: Institute of Health Economics

Contact Address: 1200, 10405 Jasper Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, T5J 3N4. Tel: +1 780 448 4881; Fax: +1 780 448 0018;

Contact Name: djuzwishin@ihe.ca

Contact Email: djuzwishin@ihe.ca

Copyright: Alberta Heritage Foundation for Medical Research (AHFMR)