Velscope (Visibly Enhanced Lesion Scope)
Every hour, every day, oral cancer claims someone in the U.S. 48% of patients diagnosed with oral cancer die within five years. That is an unacceptable statistic to us. Early diagnosis will save lives and if caught early enough, the five year survival rate can be increased to as high as 81%.
Risk Factors for Oral Cancer
- Tobacco use
- Alcohol use
- Immunosuppression
- Patient and family history of cancer
- Human papilloma virus
- Age
- Gender
- Race
- Sunlight exposure
What is the Velscope?
Velscope is an early oral cancer detection device. It utilizes a safe blue light technology and a special green optical filter for the clinician. Typically healthy tissue will have an apple-green glow under this special light. Areas of concern may appear darker to us. We do a Velscope exam on all adult patients and those having higher risk factors. Follow-up procedures may include brush biopsy or referral to a specialist. Our office is proud to be involved in lowering these terrible statistics by utilizing the Velscope.
