Cancer society supports Mac research

The Canadian Cancer Society is throwing financial support behind two separate research initiatives headed by specialists at McMaster University.

One study is aimed at improving the quality of life for patients with a rare cancer that traditionally strikes the young. most Canadians are familiar with marathoner Terry Fox and his cancer story. Diagnosed with osteo sarcoma, he lost his leg to the disease at the age of 18.

But in the last two decades treatment for this form of cancer has changed. Instead of amputations, doctors do a lengthy surgery to remove the tumour and reconstruct the leg using implants. The downside: these implants have a high rate of infection – about 10-times higher than a regular knee replacement. Controlling the infection often requires multiple surgeries.

Hamilton orthopedic oncologist Dr Michelle Ghert is determined to cut down patient infections. With a $200,000 grant from the Canadian Cancer Society, Ghert is launching a world wide clinical trial to determine the most effective antibiotic treatment course to minimize infection risk.

Although the study may take upwards of five years, it’s expected to produce a standardized method of care for patients with osteo sarcoma.

Another research project to be granted funding involves new technology that will enhance the current colonoscopy procedure.

Dr Qiyin Fang is working on a new camera lens that will give not only a forward view of the colon, but also visuals of the colon walls. He’s also developing software that will actually map the region, which will be beneficial for patient follow-up.

The Canadian Cancer Society is providing almost $200,000 for the creation of a smaller prototype as well as clinical trials involving animals. Human trials are about three years down the road.