Summary:
Neoadjuvant Hyperthermo-Radio-Chemotherapy (HRCT) for patients with Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) of the esophagus
This is a phase III Study of neoadjuvant (preoperative) therapy for patients with locally advanced SCC of the esophagus (T3-T4, N0-N1, M0 according to the TNM-Classification, UICC 1997).
Hyperthermia of the esophagus is clinically applied using a radiofrequency system with an endotract electrode (Endoradiotherm 100A, Olympus Optical Co LTD, Japan). A long, thin electrode is placed in the esophagus and a broad counter-electrode is placed on the body surface, which make the localization of the electromagnetic field feasible in the esophagus. The temperature of the endotract electrode is controlled by a cooling water system within the baloon. The exact temperature of the lesion is obtained from the thermosensor attached to the baloon surface. The malignant area of the esophagus is heated to an optimal temperature of hyperthermia ranging from 42,5-44,0 � C, for 30 minutes.
The regimen of preoperative HRCT consists of irradiation with X-ray given 5 days per week; while two fractions per week consists of combined chemotherapy and hyperthermia. Hyperthermia and CDDP (50 mg/m2 given intravenously within an hour) are simultaneously given 1 hour following irradiation treatment.
The HRCT is administred for 3 weeks preoperatively. A total of 39 Gy of irradiation, 150 mg/m2 cisplatin and 6 exposures to hyperthermia are given.
Contact:
Universit�tsklinikum Charit� - Campus Berlin-Buch
Klinik f�r Chirurgie und Chirurgische Onkologie
Lindenberger Weg 80
13122 BerlinTel.: 030-9417-1400
Fax: 030-9417-1404