Cancer Treatment Centers of America Advances Medical Technology with Total Marrow Irradiation: Treatment Reduces Toxicity and Improves Recovery Time in Patients

DATE RELEASED: 11/15/07

Zion, Illinois –  Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) at Midwestern Regional Medical Center advanced medical technology by performing the world’s second and Chicagoland’s first total marrow irradiation (TMI) procedure. The TMI procedure was performed on behalf of a 64 year-old female patient undergoing treatment for multiple myeloma in preparation for a stem cell transplant. She continues in her recovery. 

Radiation oncologists have historically been limited to treating cancers of the blood and bone marrow with total body irradiation, consisting of broad beams of radiation treating the entire body which could potentially damage critical organs. 

“The total marrow irradiation approach is a breakthrough for patients in need of stem cell transplants,” said Dr. Bernard Eden, director of Radiation Oncology at Cancer Treatment Centers of America, who performed the advanced total marrow irradiation procedure.  “Using TomoTherapy® technology, radiation is delivered in a spiral-fashion from head to knee targeting the bone marrow directly to protect the heart, lungs, brain and other organs."

“The true benefit to the patient is noteworthy as total marrow irradiation significantly improves patient recovery time and reduces the overall toxicity of the radiation.  The result is improved strength and well-being for the patient in preparation for the stem cell transplant procedure,” he said.

Cancer Treatment Centers of America was one of the country’s first cancer hospitals to obtain the state-of-the-art TomoTherapy® radiation treatment units and is one of the first in the world to perform the advanced total marrow irradiation. 

“The TMI procedure represents tremendous promise for patients battling blood cancers such as multiple myeloma and for patients who have other complex conditions in addition to their cancer,” said Dr. Istvan Redei, hematologist/oncologist who performed the stem cell transplant following the TMI procedure.  “We will be tracking and documenting the long-term progress of patients who receive the total marrow irradiation.”

About Cancer Treatment Centers of America
Founded in 1988, Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) is a network of cancer treatment hospitals and community oncology programs in Illinois, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania and Washington – with a future location in Arizona scheduled to open in early 2009.  CTCA provides a comprehensive, patient-centered treatment model that fully integrates conventional, state-of-the-art medical treatments with scientifically-supported complementary therapies such as nutrition, naturopathic medicine, psychological counseling, physical therapy and spiritual support to meet the special, whole-person needs of cancer patients with complex and advanced-stage disease.  CTCA encourages patients and their families to participate in treatment decisions through its Patient Empowerment MedicineSM model.  For more information about Cancer Treatment Centers of America, go to cancercenter.com.

About Dr. Bernard Eden
As Director of Radiation Oncology at CTCA, Dr. Eden is excited by what his team can offer patients cutting edge technology that is at the forefront of cancer care, which is combined with an integrative approach provided in a caring environment. Board-certified in radiation oncology, Dr. Eden completed his residency at the University of Virginia Health Sciences Center in 1994. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Duke University and a medical degree from the University of Virginia School of Medicine.

About Dr. Istvan Redei
As a hematologist/oncologist at CTCA, Dr. Redei is proud to be part of a growing movement toward more patient-oriented cancer care. He brings to his position a wealth of experience including serving as Director of the Matched Unrelated Donor Transplant Program at the Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta and as Assistant Professor of Hematology/Oncology at the Winship Cancer Center. Board-certified in internal medicine, hematology and medical oncology, Dr. Redei received his medical degree from Semmelweiss Ignac Medical University in Budapest, Hungary; he then went on to complete his residency at New York Medical College. He completed a fellowship in hematology from Temple University and a fellowship in oncology from Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia. In 2001, Dr. Redei was named one of the “top doctors” in Atlanta.