| "Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path - and leave a trail." ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson ~ |
| Cryotherapy, Laser and Thermotherapy: Procedures used during Examination Under Anaesthesia. |
| Cryotherapy, photocoagulation and thermotherapy are all forms of retinoblastoma treatment which may be used during an EUA. They may be used separately or in combination with each other, or with systematic chemotherapy. Though they can be very effective in destroying tumours and preserving useful vision, they are only options for small tumours. Each procedure is explained below. This procedure is used to treat small primary tumours and new tumour growth within the eye. A small probe is used to apply extreme cold to the tumour, freezing the cancerous tissues. Ultrasound technology is used to guide the probe into place, thus preserving surrounding healthy tissue. The advantage of cryotherapy is that it can be used repeatedly to treat small tumours, thus reducing the necessity of more aggressive therapies such as radiotherapy and enucleation. It can also be used in conjunction with chemotherapy. However, it is only suitable for the treatment of small tumours. Photocoagulation utilises an argon laser to cauterise (burn) small tumours within the eye. Focused beams of light are delivered through an ophthalmoscope, and the aim is to kill the cancer cells by destroying their blood supply. Laser may also be used in combination with chemotherapy, and the advantages and disadvantages of this treatment are similar to those of cryotherapy. Thermotherapy is another technique which uses heat sources to sterilise small tumours. Ultrasound, infra-red rays or microwaves may be used in this procedure, which leaves minimal scarring and preserves more vision than more aggressive options. Last updated: 20th March 2004. Go back to ORbIT Treatment Index. |
| ORPHANS OF THE CANCER STORM |
| Disclaimer This information page has been prepared by an individual who does not have medical training. However its contents have been reviewed by appropriately qualified medical professionals for accuracy and quality. This page is intended for information purposes only and should not be used as a guide to diagnosis or treatment. If this information raises any concerns about your child’s condition or care protocol, discuss them with his or her paediatrician, oncologist, or other appropriate medical professional who has knowledge of the case. |