Breast Cancer

Xoft® Electronic Brachytherapy

You spoke. We listened. We’re the first in the state—and one of the first in the country—to offer a revolutionary new therapy for breast cancer that takes just five days. Qualified candidates for this FDA-cleared investigational treatment—called Axxent® Electronic brachytherapy System by Xoft®—receive localized radiation directly to the cancer site through a balloon applicator. It’s one of the many progressive ways we’re treating cancer. Through our partnership with Fox Chase Cancer Center, our patients have access to leading cancer specialists, the latest clinical trials, and the best and newest techniques for fighting cancer. From high-quality medical care to programs for healthier living, we’re taking you well into the future.

What is Electronic Brachytherapy?
Electronic Brachytherapy is a method of delivering radiation internal to the body using a miniaturized electronic X-ray source rather than a radioactive isotope.

The most significant differences between the two sources of radiation are:

• Due to the unique characteristics of the electronic source, less harmful radiation is delivered to surrounding healthy organs and tissue
• An isotope is always emitting radiation (and therefore has special safety requirements) whereas the electronic source can be turned on or off and requires very little special handling.  

Source: Xoft, Inc., http://www.xoftinc.com/Patients/what-is-ebt.html

How Does The Axxent Electronic Brachytherapy System® Work?
The Axxent system uses a miniature X-ray source to deliver localized radiation treatment, through a balloon applicator, directly to the cancer site.

After a surgical lumpectomy the Axxent balloon applicator will be inserted into the tumor cavity through a small incision in the breast. Part of the balloon applicator, called the shaft, will remain on the outside of the breast. The shaft is thin and flexible so it can be secured down and covered and can be easily tucked into a bra.

The X-ray source will be inserted into the applicator from outside the breast. Both the X-ray source and the applicator are then attached to a delivery device called a controller which turns the radiation on and off and moves the X-ray source through the applicator. Each treatment takes approximately 15 minutes to complete.

On the fifth day, after the final treatment is complete, the balloon applicator will be deflated and removed.

Source: Xoft, Inc., http://www.xoftinc.com/Patients/how-it-works.html

Advantages of Electronic Brachytherapy