Scientific Title: Magnetic Resonance (MRI)-Guided High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) to Treat Limb Osteosarcoma in Dogs: a Pilot Study
Study Investigator: Dr. Brigitte Brisson
Purpose of the Clinical Study
- Bone cancer or osteosarcoma (OSA) is a common, highly aggressive cancer that can affect the long bones of large breed dogs.
- Current standard of care therapy consists of limb amputation plus chemotherapy.
- High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) delivers ultrasonic energy which can heat a target tissue above 60°C. This produces tissue destruction without harming overlying and adjacent tissues.
- The use of HIFU could be an alternative, non-surgical treatment which allows for the body to initiate an immunity against OSA and could possibly reduce the frequency and/or speed of occurrence of metastasis.
Is Your Pet Eligible?
Dogs with a confirmed diagnosis of osteosarcoma with no evidence of metastases and no previous surgical/radiation treatment for treatment of OSA.
Prior chemotherapy and/or bisphosphonate treatment will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Visits / Samples Required
This study requires at least one visit to the Hospital for Sick Children (Toronto) but could require more visits for re-imaging or repeat treatments as appropriate. Multiple visits to the Ontario Veterinary College (Guelph) will also be required for study participation.
Financial Incentives
The costs associated with the MRI(s), HIFU treatment, associated anesthesia, study biopsies and analyses will be covered by the study.
This study is generously supported by OVC Pet Trust.
