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Loco Regional Hyperthermia (LRHT) is based on the classical method of Hyperthermia (high-heat) but does more than just randomly heat layers of tissue. mEHT employs a modulated electric field to selectively deliver a controlled energy dose to a localized treatment area. A mobile electrode is positioned on the treatment area, while a second stationary electrode remains in a fixed position below the patient, integrated within the therapy bed. Operating at a carrier frequency of 13.56 MHz, this capacitive coupled impedance balancing circuit delivers controlled energy directly to the malignant cells.

Microbiological tests have demonstrated that higher ionic concentrations exist in the more active malignant cellular environment. Consequently, the extracellular matrix of malignant tissue inherently has greater conductivity and permittivity than healthy tissue. This difference facilitates selective focus on malignant cells even in highly mixed tissue containing large numbers of healthy and malignant cells. The derived advantage is the RF field tends to flow predominantly through the tumour tissue where concentration of the focused field and the associated energy absorption heats the malignant cells.

This process of natural selection is further enhanced by the electric-field modulation, which addresses the autonomous, non-collective behavior of individual malignant cells by reengaging the body’s inherent immune response. Ultimately, malignant cells are then driven to achieve “apoptosis”.

This effect of modulated electric field is unique and exclusive to therapy with the Oncotherm device.

Can LRHT be combined with other forms of treatment?

Loco Regional Hyperthermia (LRHT) is intended for use as an adjunct to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and is devoted to the non-invasive hyperthermia based treatment of indicated solid tumour cancers. LRHT has proven to be complementary to these treatments by enhancing the beneficial effects of chemotherapy and radiation while helping to mitigate side effects. Even a tumour which has developed a resistance to chemotherapy and radiation, may respond again to these therapies following LRHT treatment.

Are there any adverse side-effects to LRHT?

Loco Regional Hyperthermia (LRHT) is a complementary therapy that presents minimal risk and limited adverse side effects. Heating the tumour has minimal effect on adjacent healthy tissue; however, some slight surface skin reddening can occur. This effect is mitigated through regular patient communication during treatment. Also, the body’s natural circulation is extremely efficient and soon dissipates the heat – something the tumour is not capable of because of its more primitive blood supply.