A revolutionary new medical device, described as looking like a “swimming cap”, could change the way one of the most aggressive brain cancers is treated. The Tumour Treating Fields (TT Fields) headset emits low-intensity electrical fields designed to disrupt the growth of glioblastoma — a deadly form of brain tumour with a high recurrence rate and limited treatment options.
What Is the TT Fields Cap?
Developed and CE-marked for use in the European Union, the TT Fields device delivers electrical pulses directly to the brain. These pulses interfere with cell division, specifically targeting rapidly dividing glioblastoma cells without affecting surrounding healthy tissue. The device is powered by a portable battery pack and worn for extended periods of the day.
The current clinical trial, run by the Christie NHS Foundation Trust in Manchester, is testing the effectiveness of using the device earlier in the treatment process — even before surgery or radiotherapy begins. Traditionally, TT Fields has only been used after initial surgery to remove as much of the tumour as possible. However, this new study, named Portrait, aims to challenge the standard treatment timeline and intervene sooner.
Why It Could Be a Life Saver
Glioblastoma is a particularly aggressive cancer that affects approximately 3,200 people in the UK each year, with fewer than 10% surviving beyond five years. Because these tumours grow and spread quickly, any delay in treatment — even just a few weeks — can allow cancer cells to regenerate and migrate throughout the brain.
What makes this new approach so promising is the science behind the technology. When a cancer cell begins to divide, microtubules form a framework within the cell to help duplicate its chromosomes. These microtubules are particularly vulnerable to disruption from alternating electrical fields. By targeting this process, the TT Fields cap causes errors in cell division, potentially slowing or halting tumour growth.
Unlike traditional treatments such as radiotherapy or chemotherapy, this method is non-invasive and doesn’t harm healthy brain tissue. Early clinical data shows that patients who wear the device may live an average of five months longer than those who don’t — a significant benefit given the typically short prognosis of this condition.
The Future of Glioblastoma Treatment
The trial in Manchester is being led by consultant oncologist Dr Gerben Borst, in collaboration with Salford Royal Hospital and the Geoffrey Jefferson Brain Research Centre. It is currently the only trial of its kind in the UK and is expected to recruit newly diagnosed patients to test the device before surgical intervention begins.
The study is funded by Novocure, the device’s manufacturer, and aims to collect robust evidence to support widespread adoption of TT Fields therapy within the NHS.
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Legal Support for Delayed Cancer Diagnosis
While innovative treatments like TT Fields offer real hope, early diagnosis remains critical. Sadly, delays in diagnosing cancers such as glioblastoma can lead to poorer outcomes and missed opportunities for life-extending treatment.
At Hutcheon Law, we are specialist solicitors in delayed cancer diagnosis claims, helping patients and their families obtain the justice and compensation they deserve. We operate on a no win, no fee basis, meaning there’s no financial risk to you.
To find out how we can help, visit our dedicated page on delayed cancer diagnosis claims.
