Wondering why your dog seems to twitch during Electrochemotherapy treatments? Dr. Joe Impellizeri, our Board Certified Oncologist at Tier 1 Veterinary Medical Center, explains that these movements are actually muscle contractions caused by the electrical impulses used in the treatment.
During Electrochemotherapy, a low-dose chemotherapy drug is combined with electric pulses to target and destroy cancer cells. The electrical pulses open the cell membranes, allowing the chemotherapy to penetrate effectively. When these pulses reach a muscle, they can cause natural contractions, making it appear as if the dog is twitching.
In this video, you’ll see Dr. Impellizeri administering Electrochemotherapy to a dog's leg and learn why muscle contractions are a normal part of this innovative cancer treatment. Understanding these movements can help you feel more comfortable with the procedure and aware of its safety and effectiveness.
About Dr. Joe Impellizeri:
A Board Certified Oncologist, Dr. Impellizeri specializes in Electrochemotherapy (ECT), a safe and targeted cancer treatment that uses a very low dose of chemotherapy combined with electric pulses to destroy cancer cells. This innovative treatment is highly effective against various tumors, including melanoma, mast cell tumors, soft tissue sarcomas, perianal tumors, nasal tumors, and more. We are incredibly fortunate to have Dr. Impellizeri practicing at our veterinary hospital, offering this advanced treatment to our patients.
How is Electrochemotherapy Administered?
- Anesthesia: Your pet is placed under a short general anesthesia.
- Chemotherapy: A low-dose chemotherapy drug is administered intravenously or directly into the tumor.
- Electroporation: Using an applicator (electrode) with small needles, a mild electrical current is applied to the tumor area. This current creates pores in the cancer cells, allowing the chemotherapy drug to enter and destroy the cancer cells.
This innovative approach minimizes side effects typically associated with standard chemotherapy protocols, providing a safer and more effective treatment option for pets.
Benefits of Electrochemotherapy:
- Targeted Treatment: Effective for various tumor types, including those resistant to other therapies.
- Minimized Side Effects: The low-dose chemotherapy used in ECT reduces the risk of side effects.
- Versatility: Suitable for treating lesions that are difficult to remove surgically.
In addition to Electrochemotherapy, Dr. Impellizeri also brings expertise in HER2 Immunotherapy, a canine cancer vaccine. This cutting-edge technology represents a significant advancement in veterinary oncology, offering new hope for pets battling cancer.
At Tier 1 Veterinary Medical Center, we are committed to providing the highest standard of care for our patients. Dr. Impellizeri's arrival marks a significant milestone in our mission to deliver innovative and compassionate veterinary care.
For more information about Electrochemotherapy and our oncology services, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Impellizeri, please visit our website or contact us at 907-745-8437.
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