RSNA: Laser-Induced Thermotherapy Destroys Cancer Metastases, Relieves Pain CHICAGO, IL -- November 29, 2001 A new system of laser-induced thermotherapy can destroy bone lesions in cancer patients. Doctors used the experimental system in 16 patients, eight with osteoidosteoma (including six children), seven patients with bone metastases and one patient with a chondrosarcoma. In one study presented at the 87th scientific assembly and annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America in Chicago, Illinois, Christian Stroszczynski, MD, a radiology fellow at Humboldt Universitat, in Berlin, Germany, explained that using computer tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) doctors were able to position a laser at the site of bone lesions. First, cooled applicators were positioned around the tumor to reduce possible damage to healthy tissue and other anatomical structures. Then, Dr. Stroszczynski and his research team activated the diode laser for a bout 15 minutes, ablating the tumor. The temperature was monitored during the procedure and using MRI following the procedure they surveyed how effectively the tumor had been damaged. The procedures took about an hour to perform, and the older patients were able to undergo the operation while receiving just local anesthesia. [11/30/2001; Doctor's Guide] Mayo Clinic Research UPI, 10/02 Remember we are NOT Doctors and have NO medical training. This site is like an Encylopedia - there are many pages, many links on many topics. Support our work with any size DONATION - see left side of any page - for how to donate. You can help raise awareness of CAM.