Electrochemotherapy in Dogs

Electrochemotherapy (ECT) is a relatively new, cutting edge treatment method for treating canine cancer. This involves enhancing the delivery of traditional chemotherapy by using an electrical field. An electrical field is delivered to the cancerous mass for only a few milliseconds. This causes the cancer cells to become more permeable for approximately an hour after treatment. This increases chemotherapy absorption by up to a thousandfold. In fact, ECT has successfully treated forms of cancer which do not typically respond to chemotherapy.

ECT is only offered at a few specialist cancer centers in the United States. It is more popular in Europe.

1. The veterinary specialist will first perform a physical examination and assess the dog’s history. Fine needle biopsy, tissue biopsy, x-rays, ultrasounds, and blood work will also be taken.
2. Each tumor is examined and treated separately.
3. The specialist will choose the appropriate electrodes to use for treatment before preparing the chemotherapy drugs (typically cisplatin or bleomycin). These may be administered intravenously or injected directly into the tumor.
4. General anesthesia or a strong sedative is then administered.
5. A gel is applied to the skin prior to the application of the electrodes, which are connected to a pulse generator and control screen.
6. Electric pulses are then delivered to the tumor. The frequency and interval between each pulse will vary based on the cancer and type of electrode used.
7. All contaminated material is then disposed of.
8. The dog will be hospitalized, usually for up to two hours, until it is conscious and stable.
9. Most dogs will require up to three treatments.

ECT is one of the most revolutionary cancer treatments available today. It is incredibly safe and can be used in conjunction with other treatments. ECT allows chemotherapy drugs, particularly bleomycin, to better permeate cancer cells. This drug, however, is formed of large molecules that may not reach the cancer cells. ECT allows these molecules to enter and destroy the cells. 

Clinical trials have proved promising in both animals and humans. At present, ECT works best for skin tumors and those affecting the subcutaneous tissues. The success rate of ECT is 80%, and the results often last longer compared to cases treated with chemotherapy alone. Surgical treatment has a success rate of just 50%.

You will need to monitor your dog for the first few hours after the procedure while the anesthesia or sedative wears off. The procedure is not typically painful, and does not cause adverse effects. However, if you notice signs of an allergic reaction to the sedative or anesthesia, consult your veterinarian immediately.

Follow-up appointments will be scheduled for one, two, and four weeks after therapy to monitor the condition. The appointments will then be scheduled monthly after the fourth week. Additional appointments may be required to administer other forms of treatment.

The cost of ECT will vary based on the number of treatment sessions, as well as standards of living and additional treatment costs incurred. ECT is much more cost-effective than chemotherapy and radiation, with an average price of $1,500.

The efficacy of ECT is still being evaluated. However, numerous veterinary specialists across Europe have offered the procedure since 2004. Current veterinary literature shows that ECT is a safe, effective, and revolutionary cancer treatment that has the potential to vastly improve the quality of life for dogs diagnosed with cancer. A complete, long-lasting response is often achieved after just one treatment, and the procedure is far less invasive than surgery.

To date, there are no contraindications for or complications associated with this procedure. The veterinary specialist will discuss all possible complications with you prior to treatment.

Because of the nature of the disease, cancer is impossible to prevent. Dogs diagnosed with and treated for cancer should not be bred.