Elmhurst Hospital Brings Groundbreaking Cancer Treatment to Queens

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First Public Hospital on East Coast to Offer Advanced HAI Chemotherapy

NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst is breaking new ground as the first public hospital on the East Coast—and the first hospital in Queens—to offer hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAI), a cutting-edge treatment for advanced-stage liver and gastrointestinal cancers. This innovative therapy involves the surgical placement of a pump into the hepatic artery, delivering high doses of chemotherapy directly to the liver, with fewer side effects than traditional methods.

A Life-Extending Option for Advanced Cancers

HAI chemotherapy offers hope to patients battling advanced cancers, as research shows it may shrink tumors and extend lives. By delivering the treatment directly to cancer cells while limiting exposure to healthy tissues, the therapy allows for more targeted and effective care. The treatment typically spans six months, with patients receiving follow-up visits every two weeks.

“Many of our patients come from poor and immigrant communities, or are uninsured, and have historically not had access to the latest and best treatments for cancer,” said Dr. Helen Arteaga-Landaverde, CEO of NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst. “I’m excited that we are now bringing renewed hope to these patients by offering treatment options that can extend their lives.”

Equal Access to State-of-the-Art Care

This advancement in cancer care aligns with the hospital’s mission to provide equitable healthcare to all. “This is an FDA-approved treatment for patients with colon and rectal cancers metastatic to the liver and unresectable cholangiocarcinoma,” said Dr. Jennifer Whittington, Surgical Oncologist at NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst. “Everyone, regardless of their ability to pay, deserves access to state-of-the-art cancer care.”

The implementation of this program marks a significant milestone for Elmhurst Hospital and underscores its commitment to improving the quality of life for its patients.

For more information on the HAI program, call 718-334-3201.

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