N.L. wants proof MS treatment works

Newfoundland and Labrador's health minister said Wednesday the province will only fund a controversial procedure for multiple sclerosis if research proves that it is safe and effective.

"The evidence-based practice must remain the cornerstone of the health care system," said Health Minister Jerome Kennedy. "Clinical trials will determine if the Zamboni procedure works."

Saskatchewan announced Tuesday that it will fund clinical trials of the treatment — known as the Zamboni procedure or liberation therapy — that increases blood flow to the brain by opening blood vessels.

Kennedy said Wednesday that Newfoundland and Labrador does not plan to fund clinical trials of the effectiveness of this procedure for treating multiple sclerosis.

He said that it would only duplicate work already being done elsewhere.

Kennedy said if the treatment does prove to be effective, the province's medical insurance plan will pay for it.

"If it works, it will move from an experimental procedure to a procedure that is covered," said Kennedy.      

Kennedy said the Zamboni treatment could prove to be less expensive than drugs that are currently approved for MS treatment.

The procedure, developed by Italian neurologist Dr. Paolo Zamboni, uses balloon angioplasty — a proven technique for opening narrowed blood vessels to the heart.