New diagnostic technologies to enhance cancer care and precision medicine at HSA

The Health Services Authority (HSA) recently received two advanced diagnostic technologies that will revolutionize local treatment options and offer more hope to patients with cancer and other conditions. With these cutting-edge tools, previously hidden details in diagnoses will be visible, enabling better outcomes.

One of the devices, the IC-Flow™ Imaging System, is a small yet powerful tool that, when used with a special liquid that is injected, allows doctors to see inside their patients’ blood vessels in real-time, helping them make crucial decisions about their health. 

HSA’s General Surgeon, Dr. Kimon Bonadie, said that this is excellent news for patients and physicians alike and will bring renewed hope for recovery to many individuals. “It’s a bit like making your blood vessels and lymphatics light up on a screen, showing the doctor where they are and how they look. If there are any potential problems, they can spot it early and make more accurate diagnoses, helping you get the right treatment faster,” he explained.

“The process is also safer and more comfortable for the patient. Traditional imaging methods often require patients to drink contrast liquids that to some may be a bit unpleasant. However, with this new system there is no need to drink anything, and it typically involves less exposure to radiation, making it a safer option for many,” said Dr. Bonadie. 

The IC-Flow™ Imaging System can be used to help in the treatment of a variety of conditions, including most cancers. It can also be used for a range of procedures and treatments, such as radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for tumors, catheters and stents placement, and treatments involving the blood vessels in the brain and spinal cord.

Patients will also benefit from the use of one of the latest research-grade microscopes. This device enables pathologists and HSA’s laboratory team to examine tissue samples with high precision. 

HSA’s Oncologist-Haematologist Dr. Lundie Richards said, “This accuracy is crucial for making accurate and timely diagnoses of various conditions, including those that are haematological, oncological, and related to other diseases.”

“It also greatly enhances personalized treatment at the HSA. The detailed information obtained from this microscope will assist in tailoring treatment plans to each patient’s needs. Modern medicine is gradually moving away from the one-size-fits-all approach, and this personalization can lead to more effective and less invasive treatment options, reducing potential side effects,” Dr. Richards added. 

These latest technologies were donated by the Cancer Care Fund, an initiative established in 2007 with the purpose of funding equipment that will advance the diagnosis and treatment of cancer in the Cayman Islands. The Committee comprises HSA’s CEO and Medical Director, representatives from the Cayman Islands’ Cancer Society (CICS), and the Ministry of Health and Wellness. 

Cancer Care Fund Member and Operations Manager of CICS Dave O’Driscoll stated, “The Cayman Islands Cancer Society is honoured to work alongside the HSA in providing the necessary tools to aid doctors, surgeons, and technicians. The top of the range pathology microscope and IC-Flow Imaging System donated to HSA by the Cancer Care Fund have been described as “game-changers” and are expected to greatly improve the detection and treatment of cancer. This donation is a significant step forward in the Cancer Care Fund’s commitment to diagnosing and treating cancer in the Cayman Islands. The Cayman Islands Cancer Society would like to thank the HSA for their continued efforts and shared dedication to the fight against cancer.”

Funds for the programme are generated by a portion of the proceeds from mammograms performed at HSA.