Irreversible Electroporation (IRE) Treatment for Pancreatic Cancer 

Irreversible electroporation (IRE) is an emerging treatment for pancreatic cancer that is showing promising results in certain patients. At Tampa General Hospital, we’re pleased to offer irreversible electroporation clinical trials and many other progressive therapies to patients in our Pancreatic Oncology Program.

WHAT IS IRREVERSIBLE ELECTROPORATION?

Irreversible electroporation—or NanoKnife®—damages or kills cancer cells through targeted electrical currents. The goal of treatment is to slow cancer growth, thereby improving outcomes and reducing pancreatic cancer symptoms like pain. This approach may be appropriate for patients whose cancer has spread to surrounding blood vessels or organs and cannot be removed through surgery. Irreversible electroporation may also be performed in patients with borderline resectable cancer to help make tumors easier to remove. 

During irreversible electroporation treatment, patients are placed under a general anesthetic and are unable to feel any discomfort. Four to six needles are then positioned strategically around the tumor, and electrical currents are transmitted between the needles to attack cancer cells.

WHY CHOOSE TGH FOR PANCREATIC CANCER TREATMENT?

Standing at the forefront of pancreatic cancer care, TGH is the first program in Southwest Florida to offer irreversible electroporation and is commonly relied upon to treat patients with the most complex and advanced cases. Our participation in clinical trials allows pancreatic cancer patients to receive some of the latest breakthroughs in treatment before they are made widely available.

If you would like to receive a second opinion on a pancreatic cancer diagnosis or learn more about our treatment options, contact TGH today at (813) 844-2200. Our team aims to respond to appointment requests within 48 hours.