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Danile is an Optune Gio Patient Ambassador.
WHAT TO EXPECT
What to expect with Optune Gio
Most situations that come up with Optune Gio are easy to manage once you know what to do. Get helpful tips on troubleshooting, scalp care, and fitting treatment into your life.
What causes Optune Gio alarms to go off?
Optune Gio is designed to alert you if treatment is not delivered. Find out what can cause your device’s alarm to go off and how to manage it.
Are the arrays in good contact with your skin?
If not, using tape or elastic tubular dressing can ensure good contact with the scalp.
The scalp
When was the last time you changed your arrays?
Arrays should be changed at least 2 times per week, and not less than once every 4 days.
Is there hair stubble beginning to grow?
Even if there is a small amount of hair growth, a new set of arrays should be applied after shaving.
Are the arrays too warm?
Direct sunlight should be avoided. A breathable head covering could be helpful, as well as a fan. If sweat causes arrays to shift, they should be changed.
Is the yellow battery light on?
This is a great time to swap batteries for a full charge. When the battery is low, you will hear an alarm.
Have you checked the battery gauge?
If the gauge shows only 1 dot, the battery should be changed.
Are any transducer array connectors loose?
All array cables need to be fully inserted into the connection box.
Is the connection cable plugged into the device?
The gray connection cable should be gently inserted into the device with the arrows lined up. You should hear a click.
Are you hearing an alarm right after turning Optune Gio on but BEFORE pressing the TTFields button?
The device should be turned off, and the battery changed. Then the device can be turned on again.
Do you hear a rattling noise coming from the device, or has it been damaged?
You can call MyNovocure® support for troubleshooting assistance.
Are the arrays in good contact with your skin?
If not, using tape or elastic tubular dressing can ensure good contact with the scalp.
The scalp
When was the last time you changed your arrays?
Arrays should be changed at least 2 times per week, and not less than once every 4 days.
Is there hair stubble beginning to grow?
Even if there is a small amount of hair growth, a new set of arrays should be applied after shaving.
Are the arrays too warm?
Direct sunlight should be avoided. A breathable head covering could be helpful, as well as a fan. If sweat causes arrays to shift, they should be changed.
Is the yellow battery light on?
This is a great time to swap batteries for a full charge. When the battery is low, you will hear an alarm.
Have you checked the battery gauge?
If the gauge shows only 1 dot, the battery should be changed.
Are any transducer array connectors loose?
All array cables need to be fully inserted into the connection box.
Is the connection cable plugged into the device?
The gray connection cable should be gently inserted into the device with the arrows lined up. You should hear a click.
Are you hearing an alarm right after turning Optune Gio on but BEFORE pressing the TTFields button?
The device should be turned off, and the battery changed. Then the device can be turned on again.
Do you hear a rattling noise coming from the device, or has it been damaged?
You can call MyNovocure® support for troubleshooting assistance.
Tips to help minimize skin irritation
Skin irritation is the most common side effect of Optune Gio
Proper scalp care plays an important role in helping prevent irritation and maximizing your time on Optune Gio.
Change arrays
Change transducer arrays at least twice a week (one set of arrays should not be worn for more than 4 days at a time).
Ensure ventilation
Make sure your transducer arrays receive enough ventilation.
Remove gently
Remove arrays gently by pulling back on the edge of the array, taking a minute to remove each array.
- Use baby oil to loosen the edges of the arrays to pull them off OR
- Unplug the cords from the connector box and step into a warm shower to loosen and remove the arrays. This tip comes from other Optune Gio users
Place carefully
Avoid placing ceramic discs directly over screws, plates, or scars.
Shift placement
Rotate the transducer arrays and adjust the wire from a 12 o'clock position to 11 or 1 o'clock.
- To limit skin irritation, slightly shift the placement of the transducer arrays by about 0.75 inches from the last location. You should change contact sites every time you change them
- The segments leave a slight mark on the surface of your scalp. This allows you or your caregiver to see where to position the new set of arrays
Reduce your risk of infection
Wash hands
Wash your hands before each application and removal of transducer arrays
Shampoo
Wash your scalp between transducer array changes
Clean
Clean the electric razor per manufacturer’s guidelines after every shave
What should I do if my skin becomes irritated?
Skin irritation that happens with Optune Gio most often can be managed with proper skin care. You can also use medications such as topical corticosteroids and antibiotics, without discontinuing therapy.
If you experience swelling, redness, excessive itching, or other skin-related symptoms:
- Take a photograph of the affected area
- Contact your doctor to discuss treatment options
- If you have a scheduled appointment at a time when skin irritation is a concern, do not wear arrays to the visit, so your doctor can properly examine your scalp
This information is not intended to take the place of your doctor’s advice.
Danile is an Optune Gio Patient Ambassador.
Maintaining Healthy Skin Hygiene
Optune Gio users and care partners share tips on how to help keep the scalp from developing skin irritation or infection.
Danile is an Optune Gio Patient Ambassador. Emma is her care partner.
