Teh Center Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Guadeloupe has made a important advancement in the treatment of breast cancer by introducing the Deep inspiration Breath Hold (DIBH) technique. This innovation, which began in early 2025, is a first for the Caribbean region. The DIBH technique involves patients taking a deep breath and holding it,which helps to position the heart more favorably during radiation therapy,thereby minimizing the heart’s exposure to radiation.The process includes a preliminary phase where patients undergo a deep breathing test to assess their respiratory capacity and determine if they can follow the DIBH protocol. This data is crucial for creating precise dosimetric planning, allowing doctors to tailor the radiation dose for each patient during their sessions.The treatment utilizes two types of scanners: a simulation scanner to evaluate respiratory capacity and the feasibility of the technique, and an management scanner used during radiotherapy sessions to deliver the prescribed doses based on validated parameters.While the DIBH technique has already shown success in several anticancer centers across France, the CHU de guadeloupe is the first in the Caribbean to offer this innovative approach, marking a significant milestone in regional healthcare.
Interview: Deep Inspiration Breath Hold (DIBH) Protocol at CHU de Guadeloupe
Table of Contents
Recently, the Teh center Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Guadeloupe has made significant strides in breast cancer treatment by implementing the Deep Inspiration Breath Hold (DIBH) protocol.This innovative approach is crucial for creating precise dosimetric planning,allowing doctors to tailor the radiation dose for each patient during their sessions.Let’s delve into the details of this groundbreaking technique and its implications for regional healthcare.
What is the Deep Inspiration Breath hold (DIBH) Technique?
The DIBH technique involves patients holding a deep breath while receiving radiation therapy. This method is designed to reduce the amount of radiation that reaches the heart, thereby minimizing potential side effects. It is particularly beneficial for patients undergoing left-sided breast radiotherapy, as it helps protect the heart from excessive radiation exposure [[3](https://www.dana-farber.org/health-library/videos/radiation-therapy-for-breast-cancer-deep-inspiration-breath-hold)].
How Dose CHU de Guadeloupe Implement the DIBH Protocol?
CHU de Guadeloupe employs two types of scanners to ensure the precision and effectiveness of the DIBH protocol.The first is a simulation scanner used to evaluate the patient’s respiratory capacity and the feasibility of the technique. The second is a management scanner utilized during radiotherapy sessions to deliver the prescribed doses based on validated parameters [[1](https://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jaccao.2024.04.009)].
Why is the DIBH Technique Important?
With advancements in breast cancer survival rates, many patients are living longer, at least a decade after their diagnosis. Consequently, reducing late iatrogenic side effects has become a primary concern. The DIBH technique is a significant step forward in this regard, as it helps to develop heart-sparing radiation therapy techniques [[2](https://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jaccao.2024.04.009)].
CHU de Guadeloupe’s Milestone in Regional Healthcare
While the DIBH technique has already shown success in several anticancer centers across France, CHU de Guadeloupe is the first in the Caribbean to offer this innovative approach. This marks a significant milestone in regional healthcare, providing advanced treatment options for breast cancer patients in the Caribbean [[1](https://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jaccao.2024.04.009)].
Conclusion
The implementation of the DIBH protocol at CHU de Guadeloupe represents a significant advancement in breast cancer treatment. By using refined scanners and precise dosimetric planning, doctors can tailor radiation doses to minimize side effects and protect the heart. This innovative approach not only improves patient outcomes but also sets a new standard for regional healthcare in the caribbean.
