Left-Breast Cancer Radiotherapy Launches in Corsica
Polyclinique Maymard in Bastia has introduced a new radiotherapy technique for left-sided breast cancer, “l’inspiration bloquée,” marking the first time the technique has been available on the island of Corsica. The treatment aims to limit radiation exposure to the heart during sessions for patients with localized tumors in the left breast.
Treatment Availability and Patient Volume
Approximately 400 Corsican patients receive care for breast cancer each year, with about 100 of those cases involving localized tumors in the left breast within Haute-Corse. The center at Almaviva Santé expects to treat five to seven women per month from across the island using the new technique. Previously, patients requiring this treatment had to travel to the mainland for several weeks of treatment.
Reducing Cardiac Exposure During Radiation
The technique relies on a precise gesture: the patient takes a breath. Anthony Sanna, operating director of the radiotherapy center of Almaviva Santé in Bastia, noted that acquiring the technology brings a specialized standard of care directly to Haute-Corse that was previously inaccessible locally.
Treatment Timeline and Patient Care
The first patient completed her course of treatment using the new technique at the end of September. Operations continue at the Bastia facility, where staff administer the procedure to incoming women traveling from across Corsica.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Corsican patients are affected by left-sided breast cancer annually?
About 100 women in Haute-Corse are treated for localized tumors in the left breast each year out of roughly 400 total breast cancer diagnoses across Corsica.
Where is the new radiotherapy equipment located?
The technology is installed at Polyclinique Maymard in Bastia, operated by Almaviva Santé.
How many patients does the clinic plan to treat each month?
The radiotherapy center schedules five to seven women per month from across Corsica for the procedure.
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