Avita Health System is expanding its cancer treatment capabilities with two advanced therapies that previously could have required patients to travel to larger medical centers. The health system has added Pluvicto radioligand therapy for certain patients with advanced prostate cancer, along with bispecific antibody immunotherapy for select cancer patients. Both treatments are now available through Avita’s oncology program. The expansion gives eligible patients another option for receiving highly specialized cancer care while remaining closer to home, family members and existing support networks.
A targeted approach to prostate cancer
Pluvicto, formally known as lutetium Lu 177 vipivotide tetraxetan, is an FDA-approved radioligand therapy used for certain patients with metastatic prostate cancer. The treatment combines a molecule designed to locate prostate cancer cells with a radioactive component. Once the drug reaches targeted cancer cells, it delivers radiation directly to them while limiting exposure to nearby healthy tissue. That targeted approach has sometimes been described as a “seek-and-treat” form of therapy.
Avita also offers PSMA PET imaging for patients being considered for Pluvicto. The imaging can help physicians determine whether a patient’s cancer has the characteristics that make the treatment appropriate. Each case is reviewed by Avita’s oncology team before a treatment plan is developed.
Turning the immune system toward cancer
Avita has also introduced bispecific antibody immunotherapy, another newer approach to cancer treatment. Bispecific antibodies are designed to attach to two different targets at the same time. In cancer treatment, they can help connect immune cells with cancer cells, directing the body’s immune system toward the tumor. The therapy is available only for certain cancers and patients, with treatment decisions based on individual circumstances and medical evaluation.
Dr. VanDeusen said the addition of the two therapies represents a significant expansion of what Avita can offer locally.
“By introducing cutting-edge therapies like Pluvicto, a precision radioligand treatment for advanced prostate cancer, and advanced bispecific antibody immunotherapy, our program is redefining what is possible close to home,” VanDeusen said.
Specialized care requires a large team
Although both therapies can be administered locally, providing them requires considerably more than simply adding a new medication. Treatment can involve medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pharmacists, nurses, medical physicists, dosimetrists, imaging specialists and other support staff. Pharmacy specialists are particularly important because the therapies require detailed handling, preparation and monitoring procedures.
Avita’s program also incorporates imaging, treatment planning, patient education, symptom management and follow-up care.
“Behind these complex treatments is a highly specialized pharmacy team whose expertise is critical to safely managing and delivering these advanced regimens,” VanDeusen said.
The goal, he added, is to make increasingly sophisticated cancer treatment available without requiring patients to leave the region.
Expanding what can be treated locally
Avita President and CEO Jerry Morasko said the expansion is part of the health system’s continuing investment in oncology.
“Avita’s continued investment in advanced cancer care helps ensure that patients have access to innovative treatment options close to home,” Morasko said. “We are proud to bring these capabilities to our area and remain committed to meeting the growing healthcare needs of our region.”
For cancer patients, the geographic issue can be significant. Advanced treatments may require repeated appointments, imaging, laboratory work and follow-up visits, making lengthy trips to distant medical centers an additional burden during treatment. By bringing more of those services into the region, Avita is seeking to reduce that travel while expanding the range of treatments its oncology program can provide.
The health system said it plans to continue adding therapies, technologies and services as cancer treatment continues to evolve. Patients interested in learning more about Avita’s oncology services can call 567-247-0830 or visit the oncology section of the Avita Health System website.
Souce, Photo: Avita Health System