MammoSite: FDA-Approved, But Does It Work?

Dr. Frank Vicini, director of oncological services at Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oaks, Mich., is directing the first long-term national study involving MammoSite. Despite being a leading proponent of its use, Dr. Vicini cautions that “We have to make sure patients know we don’t have 30-year data. We simply don’t.” The study, which will conclude in 2015, involves 4,300 women.

In the meantime, if you’re offered MammoSite as an alternative to conventional radiation, be sure you understand what you’re choosing. Based on the stress and potential expense of 6 weeks of treatment vs. 5 days, you may very well decide that this new kid on the block is right for you. But will it keep your cancer from recurring as effectively as that 6-week treatment will?

No one knows.