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New Hope for Pancreatic Cancer Patients at UT Health San Antonio

In a groundbreaking development, UT Health San Antonio Multispecialty and Research Hospital has become the first facility in South Texas to implement a novel and less invasive treatment method for pancreatic cancer patients. This remarkable step forward involves the use of Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA), a technique that employs controlled heat delivered through high-energy radiofrequency waves. This method aims to destroy cancer cells in a targeted manner, using a small probe inserted via the endoscope, which is a flexible tube that can be passed through the mouth.

The RFA technique stands out not only for its minimally invasive nature but also for its potential to provide significant benefits to patients who are otherwise facing limited treatment options. As evidenced by early studies, this method can shrink tumors, alleviate symptoms, and even potentially enhance the patient’s longevity, especially when traditional surgical approaches are deemed too risky or unfeasible. Moreover, preliminary research indicates that RFA might stimulate the body's immune response, enabling it to recognize and combat cancer more effectively.

Dr. Prabhleen Chahal, chief of the Division of Gastroenterology and Nutrition at UT Health San Antonio, emphasizes the importance of this milestone achievement. He stated, “This accomplishment exemplifies our collective commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is achievable for our patients, our community, and the field of gastroenterology.” Dr. Chahal’s comments underline the potential impact of this treatment on patients with complex comorbidities who may have previously been considered untreatable by conventional standards.

Recently, RFA was successfully administered to a patient with a pancreatic cancer tumor that could not be surgically removed due to other serious health complications. The patient, suffering from liver cirrhosis and pulmonary hypertension, presented a unique set of challenges. His treatment was reviewed and meticulously discussed in weekly multidisciplinary pancreatic tumor board meetings, where specialists from various fields collaborated to create an extensive treatment plan.

Upon evaluating the patient's scans and medical history, the tumor board concluded that both surgery and standard chemotherapy presented too high of risks. Thus, they recommended RFA as the safest and most viable treatment option, showcasing the hospital's commitment to comprehensive care.

Dr. Rajat Garg, an assistant professor in the gastroenterology and nutrition division and a key player in the procedure, noted that the teamwork involved across different specialties was crucial to the successful execution of RFA. “Coordination among the entire procedural team – including endoscopy doctors, nurses, technicians, the anesthesia team, and hospital leadership – was vital in enabling us to obtain the necessary devices and organize the procedure efficiently,” Dr. Garg explained.

While RFA represents a promising step forward, it is essential to note that research is still ongoing regarding its efficacy specific to pancreatic cancer. Consequently, it has not yet reached the levels of standard treatment options such as chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. Its application is often limited to selected patients at specialized centers equipped with the appropriate technology and trained personnel.

UT Health San Antonio is proudly recognized as the academic health center of The University of Texas at San Antonio, offering a comprehensive network of healthcare facilities that manage more than 2.5 million patient visits annually. The hospital has established itself as a leader in innovative treatment approaches and specialized care, making significant strides in improving patient outcomes across a multitude of conditions.

Beyond its immediate care services, the institution contributes greatly to the academic and research landscape, maintaining its status among the top medical schools in the nation. The Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine, affiliated with UT Health San Antonio, ranks highly in clinical medicine research and has garnered significant support for medical research funding.

As more patients seek innovative and effective treatments for complex conditions, UT Health San Antonio stands as a beacon of hope through its commitment to integrating advanced medical practices with compassionate patient care. This recent advancement in RFA is a testament to the hospital's mission to make lives better and to reshape the future of medicine in South Texas.

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