FAQs: Calypso
What is the Calypso® 4D Localization System?
Why is organ motion a concern in prostate and prostate bed radiation treatment?
How does the Calypso System work?
The Calypso 4D Localization System utilizes three Beacon® electromagnetic transponders, each smaller than a grain of rice, which are permanently implanted in the prostate or prostate bed during a simple outpatient procedure prior to external beam radiation therapy. The Beacon transponders – comprised of wireless electromagnetic circuits – are designed to interact with the Calypso System, allowing the clinician guidance to precisely position the patient prior to radiation therapy treatment and continuously monitor the tumor’s position during each treatment session.
Additionally, Calypso Medical offers an Adaptive Couch RepositioningTM feature, providing connectivity with Varian Medical Systems’ 4D integrated treatment console (4DITC) to allow the therapist to realign the treatment couch in a matter of seconds, from outside the treatment room, when the Calypso System detects significant organ motion.
Can this treatment be used for patients who have had a prostatectomy, have had a recurrence or are at high-risk for recurrence?
Yes. Radiation therapy is the standard of care for patients whose cancer has recurred or are at a high-risk of recurrence. In May 2008, Calypso Medical received clearance from the FDA for post-prostatectomy patients at risk of, or diagnosed with, recurrent prostate cancer. Studies indicate more than 20% of prostatectomy patients are diagnosed with recurrent prostate cancer and require adjuvant radiation therapy.
Is there clinical data that supports the efficacy of "GPS for the Body?"
Data on the Calypso 4D Localization System and Beacon transponders have been featured in more than 15 published peer-reviewed articles and the topic of more than 100 abstracts at major medical meetings. Notably, results from a clinical study published in the March 2007 issue of the International Journal of Radiation Oncology Biology Physics1 demonstrated the Calypso 4D Localization System is a clinically efficient and objective localization method for positioning prostate patients undergoing radiation therapy. The study found initial treatment setup can be performed rapidly, accurately and objectively before radiation delivery. The extent and frequency of prostate motion during radiation therapy can be easily monitored and used for adaptive motion management.
The study is the only continuous, real-time, and objective setup and tracking study of the prostate during external beam radiation therapy, with more than 2,000 fractions recorded. 97% of patients exceeded preset thresholds at some point during their radiation therapy.