MammoSite

MammoSite/Partial Breast Radiation (PBI) Trial. The Lacks Cancer Center, in collaboration with the RTOG, is the only Grand Rapids area institution that participates in clinical trials in the use of MammoSite/PBI to breast cancer patients. This trial is designed to test whether PBI (radiation therapy that treats only the portion of breast where the tumor is located) is a safe alternative to conventional whole breast radiation. Typically, PBI is offered either through a MammoSite balloon device—a balloon that is inserted into the cavity and delivers high-dose radiation twice daily—or from a linear accelerator, a machine that delivers radiation to the entire breast. Both therapies are given over a one-week period, as opposed to a typical six-week course of radiation therapy. The decision to enroll patients in this trial is typically made after a consultation with a radiation oncologist and surgeon.

Breast Cancer patients who are interested in joining this clinical trial should contact Dr. Gil Padula's office at (616) 752-6218.