SEQUOIA HOSPITAL FIRST IN NORTHERN CALIFORNIA TO USE NEW X-RAY TECHNOLOGY ON
SKIN CANCER
Gulmay Xstrahl 100 Treats Basal Cell Carcinoma with 95 – 98% Cure Rate
REDWOOD CITY, CA – April 6, 2009 – Sequoia Hospital announced today use of the new Gulmay Xstrahl 100, a form of low energy x-ray therapy used for treating cancerous skin lesions such as basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas. Superficial radiation therapy has been used to treat skin cancers for the past 70 years and remains one of the most successful treatments for basal cell carcinoma (BCC). The Gulmay Xstrahl 100 can treat a wide variety of skin cancers because of a unique design: simple beam direction and modification, unrestricted applicator positioning and flexible set-up allow for excellent cosmetic outcomes. Cancers on places that are difficult to treat, such as a patient’s nose, can now be treated with x-ray technology rather than disfiguring surgery. Because of the flexible design, the Gulmay Xstrahl 100 is considered the preferred method of treatment for skin cancers on the face and on the shin area of the legs, where surgery can be difficult.
“With the new Gulmay Xstrahl 100, we now have the ability to treat an incredible array of skin cancers in terms of size and thickness of the cancer,” said C. Dale Young, M.D. leading Bay Area radiation oncologist. “At Sequoia Hospital our cure rates for BCC using superficial radiation therapy fall in the 95-98% range. This new technology is a significant advance in how we treat many skin cancers with radiation therapy.”
“We are incredibly fortunate to be the first in Northern California to have this versatile and powerful piece of equipment,” said Glenna Vaskelis, hospital president and CEO. “Patients travel to Sequoia from all over California for our advanced care and new technologies. Our staff and physicians provide award winning care for all our patients, whether they come from near or far.”
X-ray therapy provides skin cancer patients with a safe, effective treatment option, excellent cosmetic outcomes, minimally invasive treatment, and minimal treatment planning. Superficial x-ray therapy is excellent in producing the maximum therapeutic dose on the surface of the skin, where it is most needed.
The purchase of the Gulmay Xstrahl 100 was graciously funded by the Sequoia Hospital Foundation.
About Sequoia Hospital
Sequoia Hospital is an accredited, not-for-profit community hospital providing innovative and exceptional healthcare to Bay Area residents. With a nationwide reputation for pioneering advanced cardiac care, Sequoia is designated as a 2009 Blue Distinction Center for Cardiac Care by Anthem-Blue Cross of California and Blue Shield of California. Sequoia also excels in the areas of stroke care, emergency services, and birth center services. Voted “A Family Favorite 2008 Best Hospital” by readers of Bay Area Parent magazine, Sequoia ranks in the top percentile of U.S. hospitals for patient satisfaction and is a leader in quality and safety initiatives. To learn more, please visit: www.SequoiaHospital.org
