What is NTTS?

The NanoTherm® Therapy System (NTTS) is a set of medical devices approved for use in the EU for the local treatment of recurrent glioblastoma, that work in harmony with each other for the local treatment of recurrent glioblastoma.

NTTS generates heat inside the tumor and is primarily based on the interaction of the two medical devices NanoTherm® AS1 and NanoActivator®. The therapy using NTTS starts with the application of the NanoTherm® AS1 directly into the tumor (recurrent glioblastoma). There are two application routes followed for the treatment using NTTS which are namely NanoPaste method and interstitial application method.

Disclaimer: “The safety and performance of the interstitial application method (instillation) has not yet been sufficiently proven according to MDR requirements. Only limited data on safety and performance are currently available.“

Within a few days after implantation, the first activation of the NanoTherm® AS1 particles takes place. This means that the nanoparticles produce heat when activated in an alternating magnetic field provided by the NanoActivator®. Depending on the local temperatures, the heat kills the tumor (recurrent glioblastoma) cells or makes them more susceptible for radiotherapy or chemotherapy. The surrounding healthy tissue is spared.

The recommended thermotherapy schedule includes six one-hour treatments (minimum interval of 48 hours) in the NanoActivator® over a period of three weeks. The first activation should take place after sufficient wound healing and at least 3 days after neurosurgery.

NTTS procedure

The attending physician will discuss the steps with you. The approved indication for the NanoTherm® Therapy System (NTTS) is for the treatment of recurrent Glioblastoma multiforme. The treating neurosurgeons decides whether to and how to administer NTTS.

Here is a brief description of what you can expect.

  1. Checking for eligibility

The neurosurgeon checks for eligibility and assesses if there are any contraindications present.

  1. Analyzing the tumor (recurrent glioblastoma)

The tumor is measured using an imaging method (CT, MRI or PET) and the neurosurgeon can optimally plan the application of the nanoparticles.

  1. Applying nanoparticles

The neurosurgeon precisely applies NanoTherm® AS1 in the target (recurrent glioblastoma) area.

  1. Planning the treatment sessions

The parameters and schedule for the treatment sessions are planned.

  1. Undergoing treatment sessions in the NanoActivator®

The patient typically completes six one-hour sessions in the NanoActivator® over a period of three weeks.

FAQ

How long does the treatment take?

After a confirmed tumor (recurrent glioblastoma) diagnosis and the introduction of the ferrofluid containing the nanoparticles, there are typically six one-hour sessions on the NanoActivator®. As a rule, these sessions occur twice a week during a three-week period.

Am I eligible for NTTS?

Only the treating neurosurgeons decides whether to and how to administer NanoTherm®.

The approved indication for the NTTS is for the treatment of recurrent Glioblastoma multiforme.

Patients not eligible for therapy with NTTS include

  • Those with metal-containing objects that cannot be removed within 40 cm of the tumor (e.g., pacemaker)
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Younger than 18
  • Taller than 190 cm
  • Heavier than 120 kg
  • Hypersensitive to iron oxide, amino silanes, acetic acid

How can I receive treatment with NTTS?

NanoTherm® Therapy System (NTTS) is available to patients in specific treatment centers (see treatment centers). Please contact them directly.

If I do not live in Poland or Germany, can I still receive treatment with NTTS?

NanoTherm® Therapy System (NTTS) is available to patients in specific treatment centers (see treatment centers). For more information, please contact the treatment centers directly.

If I have any metallic implants, can I still receive treatment with NTTS?

Metal-containing objects heat up in alternating magnetic fields. It must be determined whether metal-containing objects in the body are affected by the magnetic field and if so whether they can be removed.

Only the treating neurosurgeons decides whether to and how to administer NTTS.

Is treatment with NTTS possible with chemotherapy or radiotherapy?

Heat can destroy cancer cells or weaken them to be made more sensitive for radiotherapy or chemotherapy. The administration of NTTS is subject to the discretion of the treating physician.

What are the potential side effects?

Speak with the neurosurgeon about the risks and benefits. In the past, the following side effects have been reported in varying degrees during treatment.

Common adverse reactions (more than 10 in 100 patients) include sweating, warm sensation, Tachycardia (Increased heart rate), Hypertension (Arterial increased blood pressure), Cerebral oedema (excess fluid collecting in tissue)

For more information, please contact the treatment centers.

Will insurance cover the cost of treatment with NTTS?

Please contact your insurance provider directly.