Optune therapy is a non-invasive, wearable treatment for certain brain tumors. It uses tumor therapy fields, which are applied to the affected areas of the brain via a device. These fields generate a weak but continuous alternating current that specifically targets tumor cells and disrupts their cell division. This causes the tumor cells to multiply more slowly and eventually die off.
Optune therapy is usually used in combination with chemotherapy, as the treatment combats the tumor more comprehensively through different mechanisms of action. For patients, this offers a new opportunity to improve their chances of survival and quality of life.
Optune therapy has been specifically developed for the treatment of glioblastomas and high-grade gliomas such as astrocytomas. Glioblastomas are malignant brain tumors characterized by rapid and aggressive growth and are often difficult to treat. Optune therapy has been approved for use in adult patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma and can help to slow the progression of the disease. As glioblastomas often recur after surgery and during chemotherapy, Optune offers a valuable addition to the fight against this aggressive tumor.
Optune works using special electrodes attached to the scalp, which are connected via cables to a small, portable device. This generates tumor therapy fields that act directly on the tumor cells in the brain. By specifically targeting cell division, tumor cells are prevented from multiplying, while healthy cells are less affected due to the special structure of the tumor therapy fields. Patients usually wear the device for at least 18 hours a day, which enables the therapy to be as effective as possible.
Using Optune is straightforward and can be integrated into daily life, as the device is portable and the treatment setup is non-invasive. It is important that patients and their carers receive comprehensive training in its use from healthcare professionals in order to benefit effectively from the therapy.
Optune Gio: Portable therapy device with transducer arrays for applying TTFields directly to the scalp
Life with Optune Gio varies depending on daily circumstances, but can be easily integrated into a normal daily routine. The therapy is non-invasive and outpatient, so patients can wear the device while on the move. The transducer arrays are placed directly on the scalp and changed regularly, usually every two to three days. Application specialists provide support with the initial fitting, optimal array placement and changing the arrays.
Many Optune Gio users find it helpful to structure their daily routine around the therapy – for example, by scheduling fixed times for changing the array or charging the batteries. Traveling with Optune Gio is also possible: the device is compact, can be carried on a plane and is generally accepted by airlines. For longer journeys, it is advisable to consult the clinic or treatment center in advance.
As Optune Gio should be used as continuously as possible – ideally 18 hours a day – good scalp care plays an important role. Mild skin irritation can usually be treated effectively by keeping the scalp dry, using non-irritating skincare products or taking short breaks.
Patients should ensure they use the Optune device regularly and daily for the recommended duration to derive the maximum benefit from the therapy. Regular medical check-ups are necessary to monitor the progress of treatment and check for any side effects.
The most common side effects of Optune therapy include skin irritation on the scalp where the electrodes are attached. In such cases, the doctor may recommend specific skincare measures or ointments to soothe the affected area.
Although Optune therapy is generally considered safe, side effects can occur as with any treatment. The most common side effects are skin irritation and local discomfort at the sites where the electrodes are attached. These skin reactions are mild in most cases and can be effectively managed with simple measures. Serious side effects are rare and occur only in a few cases. However, patients should discuss the therapy regularly with their treating doctor in order to identify side effects at an early stage and respond appropriately.
Optune therapy offers glioblastoma patients an additional treatment option that has been shown in clinical trials to prolong survival and improve quality of life. According to recent studies, patients who use Optune therapy consistently and regularly have a better chance of keeping this aggressive tumor under control for longer.
Optune therapy is an innovative and non-invasive addition to conventional cancer treatment for glioblastomas and high-grade gliomas. It enables targeted, continuous treatment of tumor cells, while healthy cells remain largely unaffected. With the option of wearing the device on the go, it offers patients a flexible and effective treatment option that can improve quality of life and prognosis in glioblastoma.
What does Optune therapy mean for a newly diagnosed WHO Grade 4 glioma?
In the case of a newly diagnosed WHO Grade 4 glioma – which includes glioblastoma and certain Grade 4 astrocytomas – Optune can be used as an adjunct to surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. This combination has been shown to be effective in large clinical trials, as it can slow the progression of the disease and prolong survival.
How does Optune Gio work in Grade 4 astrocytomas and IDH-mutated tumors?
Optune Gio treats both classic glioblastomas and high-grade Grade 4 astrocytomas, regardless of whether the tumor is IDH-mutated or not. The therapy directs alternating electric fields (TTFields) specifically at the tumor to disrupt cell division in the tumor cells and thus inhibit tumor growth.
How are the transducer arrays placed directly on the scalp?
The transducer arrays – or HFE transducer arrays in the case of Optune Gio – are placed directly on the scalp. Application specialists demonstrate exactly how to position the array and how to change it. The array is usually changed every two to three days.
How often should Optune Gio be worn each day?
To achieve the best possible effect, Optune Gio should be worn as continuously as possible – ideally 18 hours a day. This is the only way to ensure the TTFields reach the tumor with sufficient intensity.
What exactly do the Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) do?
TTFields act directly on the tumor cells using low-intensity, intermediate-frequency alternating electric fields. They interfere with cell division and can specifically inhibit tumor growth. Healthy cells are less affected due to their structure.
Who covers the costs of Optune Gio?
Cost coverage depends on the individual health insurance provider. In many cases, the costs of treatment with Optune Gio are covered alongside temozolomide chemotherapy, provided the medical criteria are met. The treating clinic will assist with clarification and any necessary documentation.
Is Optune Gio also significantly effective in glioblastoma and grade 4 astrocytoma?
Yes. In studies, Optune Gio demonstrated significant benefits in newly diagnosed glioblastoma and grade 4 astrocytoma. In particular, when used consistently, a longer progression-free period and prolonged overall survival were observed.
Can you travel with Optune Gio?
Yes. Optune Gio is an outpatient treatment and can be easily integrated into daily life. Traveling with Optune Gio is also possible, as the device is compact and can usually be carried on a plane without any problems. Many Optune Gio users report that it is well suited to everyday use.
What role does Novocure play in Optune therapy?
Novocure is the company that developed Optune and provides TTFields technology worldwide. The support provided by the company often includes technical assistance and training, ensuring that patients are well supported in using Optune Gio.
Are there differences between WHO Grade 4 gliomas and WHO Grade 4 astrocytomas?
WHO Grade 4 gliomas encompass several aggressive tumor types, including glioblastoma and WHO Grade 4 astrocytoma. For both, Optune Gio is a potential additional treatment option, as the procedure targets the mechanisms of cell division regardless of the exact subtype.
