Revolutionary Cancer Treatment at Intermountain Cedar City Hospital Sparks Hope in Southern Utah

At 88 years old, Gary Hugie of New Harmony, Utah, remains steadfast in his pursuit of life’s milestones, despite a challenging diagnosis of colon and liver cancer.

 

Determined to reach his 100th birthday, enjoy more camping trips, and cherish moments with his family, Hugie’s resilience is bolstered by an innovative treatment at Intermountain Cedar City Hospital.

 

Hugie is undergoing Hepatic Artery Infusion Pump Therapy (HAIP), a cutting-edge approach that delivers high-dose chemotherapy directly to liver tumors, minimizing systemic side effects.

 

The Intera 3000 HAI Pump, the only FDA-approved device of its kind, is surgically implanted in the lower abdomen and utilizes body heat for continuous drug delivery, reducing the risk of mechanical failure.

 

Dr. Bryce Perkins, an oncologist at Intermountain Cedar City Cancer Center, introduced Hugie to HAIP after his cancer metastasized to the liver.

 

“In some cases, HAIP may open opportunities for definitive therapies like surgery, all while allowing patients to maintain a better quality of life with reduced reliance on systemic chemotherapy,” Dr. Perkins explained.

 

Hugie is currently the only patient in Southern Utah receiving treatment with the Intera 3000 HAI Pump.

 

This achievement is the result of collaboration between Intermountain Cedar City Hospital and Intermountain Medical Center in Murray, Utah.

 

Dr. Ivan Zendejas performed the initial pump implantation in Murray, after which Dr. Perkins and his team continued the treatment locally.

 

To facilitate this advanced therapy, the Cedar City oncology team underwent extensive training, ensuring they could manage the specialized dosing schedules and follow-up care required for HAIP.

 

Hugie’s journey is also supported by his wife of 67 years, Dorothy, and their five children, who have been by his side throughout his diagnosis and treatment.

 

Having access to this treatment close to home has significantly improved Hugie’s quality of life, allowing him to experience fewer side effects and better control over his cancer.

 

“I appreciate Dr. Perkins and all of his staff at Intermountain Health for the wonderful job they are doing,” Hugie expressed.

 

Dr. Perkins and his colleagues are committed to bringing innovative treatments like HAIP to Southern Utah, aiming to keep patients safe and healthy while allowing them to remain close to home.

 

They are dedicated to helping patients like Hugie achieve their life goals, including his aspiration to celebrate his 100th birthday.