We are delighted to share one of the truly collaborative services available here at Wear Referrals: intraoperative electrochemotherapy (ECT).
Electrochemotherapy is an advanced technique that uses short electrical pulses to help chemotherapy drugs enter tumour cells more effectively. When applied during surgery, it enables us to target any remaining cancer cells that may be left behind after a mass has been removed. This is particularly valuable in areas where achieving wide surgical margins is challenging, such as the limbs.
Why is this beneficial?
- Highly targeted treatment: Chemotherapy is delivered precisely where it is needed.
- Reduced side effects: By focusing the treatment locally, the rest of the body is spared unnecessary exposure.
- Improved outcomes in difficult cases: ECT is especially helpful when complete surgical removal is not possible, or when we aim to reduce the risk of local tumour regrowth.
What makes this service especially exciting is the close collaboration between our surgery and oncology teams. Intraoperative ECT requires meticulous planning and real-time coordination in theatre, bringing together specialists from multiple disciplines to achieve the best possible outcomes for our patients.
At Wear Referrals, we are committed to continually expanding and enhancing the treatment options available to our patients. Our investment in advanced, evidence‑based care—supported by strong multidisciplinary teamwork—ensures we can offer progressive approaches tailored to each individual case.
