Photodynamic Laser Therapy: A Bladder Cancer Protocol

Abstract

This data, along with data from other research studies, indicate that PDT is a promising new treatment for noninvasive bladder cancer. In the current study at Veterans Administration Medical Center, three of the four patients who received Thiotepa have had recurrences of their bladder tumors or positive urine cytology. The three patients who received PDT have not experienced any recurrences or positive urine cytology. Since we have been involved in this trial, we have developed some recommendations that other institutions may want to follow. The tip of the laser fiber is very bright. To decrease eye strain and fatigue, a lens cap with a green eye shield should be used on the cytoscope. All staff should wear green-colored safety eye glasses. This will protect their eyes from constant exposure to the intense incandescent radiation, and if the fiber should break, it would protect their eyes from the bright red color. With all the extra equipment such as ultrasound, power meters, light sources, and anesthesia equipment, it is important to avoid tripping over extension cords. The cords should be covered. Also, it is important not to bump into the equipment, which can happen because the OR is dark. At this time, the laser technician is the only person authorized at our medical center to operate the argon-pumped tunable dye laser. In the future, if more research programs are started or therapy is approved for other uses, additional personnel will be trained.