AdventHealth Tampa Innovates Cancer Treatment with Implantable Chemotherapy Pump in Tampa Bay

AdventHealth Tampa Leads Tampa Bay with Implantable Chemotherapy Pump

In a significant advancement for cancer treatment in the Tampa Bay area, AdventHealth Tampa has become the first facility to introduce an innovative implantable chemotherapy pump specifically designed for patients facing metastatic colorectal cancer. This state-of-the-art technology not only enhances the efficiency of drug delivery but also minimizes the potential side effects associated with traditional chemotherapy methods.

A Groundbreaking Approach: Hepatic Artery Infusion Therapy

The newly implemented treatment, known as Hepatic Artery Infusion (HAI) therapy, employs a specialized pump that directly administers chemotherapy agents to the liver via the hepatic artery. This targeted approach is particularly beneficial for patients with metastatic tumors that have spread to the liver, including those affected by intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, a rare and aggressive type of liver cancer.

Dr. Iswanto Sucandy, a highly trained surgeon with dual fellowships in Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, is at the forefront of this treatment at AdventHealth Tampa. He expressed his commitment to offering groundbreaking solutions: "At the AdventHealth Digestive Health Institute Tampa, we are dedicated to providing the most advanced treatment options for complex liver cancers. HAI therapy is a groundbreaking approach that enables us to directly target tumors while minimizing systemic side effects.”

The First Surgical Procedure and Its Impact

On March 17, Dr. Sucandy successfully performed the first HAI pump implantation in the Tampa Bay region. This milestone positions AdventHealth Tampa among just six hospitals in Florida equipped to deliver this type of care for patients battling advanced colorectal cancer and intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Notably, AdventHealth Tampa holds the distinction of being the first facility in the state to perform robotic pump placement, a method that enhances patient recovery and reduces risks compared to traditional laparoscopic procedures.

One compelling case involved a 41-year-old patient diagnosed with fifteen metastatic tumors in the liver. Previously deemed inoperable, this patient is now on track for a potential surgical intervention after beginning treatment with the implantable chemotherapy pump, which aims to shrink the tumors.

Colorectal Cancer: A Rising Concern

Colorectal cancer ranks as the third most prevalent cancer in the United States and is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among individuals under 50. An alarming statistic reveals that nearly 30% of colorectal cancer patients develop liver metastases, complicating treatment strategies.

Clinical studies endorse HAI therapy's efficacy in significantly reducing tumor size, enabling the surgical removal of initially inoperable tumors, and improving overall survival rates. This advancement not only highlights AdventHealth Tampa’s commitment to innovation but also signifies hope for cancer patients grappling with limited treatment options.

Comprehensive Care and Innovative Solutions

Adding to the excitement, Michael Gaisford, CEO of Intera Oncology, reinforced the importance of expanding access to HAI therapy, stating, "We are proud to support AdventHealth Tampa in their efforts to provide HAI therapy to patients who can benefit from it. This innovative treatment is now available in leading cancer centers, allowing patients to retain their daily activities while receiving continuous therapy targeted at the liver."

As AdventHealth Tampa embarks on this innovative journey in cancer care, the institution not only elevates the standard of treatment within the region but also underscores its mission: providing compassionate, cutting-edge health solutions to patients in need.