The hydrosun® TWH1500 is a medical-grade locoregional superficial hyperthermia system, utilizing water-filtered infrared A (wIRA) radiation to deliver non-invasive, contact-free heating to superficial tissues. Designed as an adjunctive oncological therapy, it is primarily used in the treatment of locally recurrent or inoperable tumors, especially challenging cases such as chest wall recurrences in breast cancer. Manufactured by Hydrosun Medizintechnik in Germany, this device has been exclusively distributed worldwide by heckel medizintechnik since its market introduction in July 2017.

Key Technical Features

• Water-Filtered Infrared-A (wIRA): Filters out infrared B and C wavelengths, enabling deeper and more uniform energy penetration without excessive superficial heating.
• Twin-Applicator System: Provides consistent energy delivery across irregular body contours and large treatment areas (e.g., extensive chest wall lesions).
• Real-Time Thermographic Control: Maintains precise skin temperature (typically capped at 42–43 °C) through automatic heating regulation to prevent overheating.
• Effective Heating Depth: Achieves therapeutic temperatures of >40 °C at depths of at least 15 mm, and >39.5 °C at 20 mm under optimal settings.
• Minimized Skin Toxicity: Clinical reports show virtually 0% incidence of Grade 2 or higher skin damage when used as directed.

Clinical Applications & Benefits

• Combination with Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy: Often applied alongside re-irradiation or chemotherapy to boost treatment efficacy.
• Enhanced Response in Recurrent Breast Cancer: Retrospective studies on 201 patients with locally recurrent breast cancer demonstrated an overall response rate of 95%. Protocols commonly involve 45–60 minutes of hyperthermia followed by hypofractionated radiotherapy (e.g., 5 × 4 Gy sessions).
• Mechanism of Therapeutic Action:
  • Improves tumor perfusion and oxygenation.
  • Inhibits DNA repair mechanisms.
  • Enhances antitumor immune responses.
  • Acts as a radiosensitizer, allowing reduced radiation dosages without compromising efficacy.
• Patient Comfort and Safety: Contact-free treatment eliminates pressure or fixation, making it suitable for ulcerated or sensitive lesions.
• Clinical Recognition: Endorsed in European Society for Hyperthermic Oncology (ESHO) quality assurance guidelines for superficial hyperthermia clinical trials.