Optune® Tumor Treating Fields (TTF) Therapy for Glioblastoma
A unique, FDA-approved therapy for glioblastoma (GBM) using a wearable device that emits low-intensity electrical fields. These alternating fields disrupt cancer cell division, slowing tumor growth and working in concert with standard treatment.
What is Optune?
Optune is a cutting-edge, FDA-approved therapy designed for patients with glioblastoma (GBM)—a fast-growing and aggressive type of brain tumor. Unlike traditional cancer treatments, Optune is a wearable medical device that delivers Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields)—low-intensity, alternating electric fields that disrupt cancer cell division and help slow or stop tumor progression.
This non-invasive therapy works in combination with chemotherapy or after surgery/radiation as part of a comprehensive GBM treatment plan.
How It Works
Wearable Device
The patient wears a lightweight cap-like array on their scalp connected to a portable device. This delivers continuous low-frequency electric fields directly to the tumor site.
Disruption of Cell Division
These alternating fields interfere with the cancer cells' ability to divide and replicate, ultimately leading to slower tumor growth or cell death—without harming healthy brain tissue.
Integrated with Daily Life
Patients typically wear the device for most of the day (about 18 hours), and it can be managed discreetly to fit into everyday activities.
Benefits of Optune
FDA-Approved for GBM
Proven to extend survival when used with standard therapy.
Non-Invasive
No surgery, needles, or radiation exposure involved in TTFields delivery.
Minimal Side Effects
Generally limited to mild skin irritation under the device arrays.
Flexible & Portable
Designed for mobility and independence, enabling patients to continue normal routines.
Common Uses for Optune
Optune is often recommended for:
Newly diagnosed glioblastoma (GBM)
Recurrent glioblastoma
Slows tumor growth
Non-invasive & wearable
Improves survival rates
Learn More About Radiant Cancer Center
With our office based out of Rancho Mirage, our treatment center is conveniently located to serve the entire Coachella Valley.
Every step of your care is monitored and adjusted to ensure the highest accuracy.
How It Works
What Is Optune® Tumor Treating Fields (TTF) Therapy?
Optune® is an FDA-approved Tumor Treating Fields (TTF) therapy designed to treat glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. Unlike chemotherapy or radiation, Optune uses low-intensity electric fields delivered through adhesive arrays placed on the scalp. These electric fields disrupt cancer cell division, slowing or stopping tumor growth while minimizing damage to healthy brain tissue.
Optune is typically used in combination with chemotherapy after surgery and radiation for newly diagnosed glioblastoma, and it may also be used in recurrent cases. At Radiant Cancer Care, we evaluate each patient carefully to determine if Optune TTF therapy is an appropriate part of their treatment plan.
How Does Optune TTF Therapy Work?
Optune works by delivering Tumor Treating Fields—gentle, alternating electric fields that interfere with the ability of cancer cells to divide and multiply. Cancer cells divide more rapidly than normal cells, making them particularly vulnerable to this type of therapy.
When worn for the recommended number of hours per day, Optune can help slow tumor progression and improve overall survival when combined with standard therapies. Because the treatment targets dividing cells, it focuses specifically on tumor activity while reducing systemic side effects often seen with chemotherapy.
Who Is a Candidate for Optune® Therapy?
Optune is primarily approved for adults with newly diagnosed or recurrent glioblastoma. Candidates typically:
Have completed surgery and radiation therapy
Are receiving maintenance chemotherapy
Are medically stable and able to wear the device for extended periods daily
Our oncology team at Radiant Cancer Care performs a thorough evaluation, including imaging review and overall health assessment, to determine if Optune TTF therapy aligns with the patient’s condition and goals of care.
How Long Do Patients Need to Wear Optune?
For optimal effectiveness, patients are generally advised to wear the Optune device at least 18 hours per day. Clinical studies have shown that higher daily usage correlates with improved outcomes.
The device is portable and designed to allow patients to continue daily activities. Our team provides education and support to ensure patients understand proper array placement, device maintenance, and lifestyle integration while undergoing treatment.
Is Optune Covered by Insurance?
Optune is FDA-approved for glioblastoma and is covered by many insurance providers, including Medicare in appropriate cases. Coverage varies depending on the patient’s specific insurance plan and diagnosis.
At Radiant Cancer Care, we work closely with patients and insurance providers to verify benefits and coordinate authorization when needed. Our goal is to ensure that eligible patients have access to advanced therapies like Optune TTF without unnecessary financial barriers.
Other Services We Offer
Interested in exploring other precision-focused radiation therapies?
Intensity‑Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT)
Advanced radiation treatment designed to target tumors with precision while protecting healthy tissue.
Surface-Guided Radiation Therapy (SGRT)
Uses 3D camera systems to monitor patient surface motion in real-time. SGRT enhances accuracy and safety by automatically pausing treatment if movement exceeds designated thresholds.
Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT)
Utilizes advanced imaging (e.g., CT, MRI, PET) before and during treatment to ensure radiation targets the exact tumor location, reducing margins and improving accuracy.