In the dynamic field of radiation therapy, technology is revolutionising cancer treatment. Cancer is a global health crisis that claims nearly 10 million lives annually. It requires new strategies to reduce the burden on local healthcare systems. We must ask ourselves how to develop technology around a patient-centric approach, which means bringing out innovations that can tailor treatments to meet individual needs. Radiation therapy can be used in over half of cancer cases. It can be the first line of defence or used alongside other treatment techniques. This is partly because modern radiation therapy offers greater precision and personalisation than ever before.
Boosting precision and personalisation
Imagine a streamlined cancer care pathway that supports patients at every stage – detection, treatment, and beyond. This pathway is bolstered by established tests like mammography, low dose CT diagnostics, MRI, biomarkers, and biopsies, along with advanced artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled techniques. Throughout this journey, patients receive adequate information and support to optimise their care.
Multi-modality imaging techniques, such as CT scans and MRI, are crucial. Cancer varies among individuals, and traditional cancer interventions relied solely on specialist expertise, posing challenges in visualisation and dexterity. Vision alone cannot measure several parameters critical for treatment delivery, such as the morphological or functional features of the tumor, perfusion, metabolism, or tissue temperature. Modern Image-Guided Therapy (IGT) utilises imaging to enhance the precision and localisation of target tissue, along with monitoring and managing treatments.
One example of how advanced imaging techniques and treatment modalities can enhance treatment precision and improve outcomes is Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT). IMRT administers 3D conformal radiation, adjusting intensity based on a 3D image of the tumor, reducing the risk of damaging healthy tissues. AI has further expedited the provision of high-quality personalised treatment, while adaptive therapy adapts over time based on temporal and spatial changes in the tumor’s microenvironment and cellular phenotype. Varian’s Ethos® therapy enables clinicians to modify a patient’s treatment plan daily, based on tumor changes using high-quality images and delivering treatments accordingly. This method considers changes in the shape and position of the tumor due to nearby organs and provides automated dose accumulation and forecasting to monitor treatment progress.
Faster treatment techniques
The methods of treatment delivery have significantly evolved due to technology. In the 1950s, cobalt units were used for radiation therapy, resulting in challenges with replacing and disposing of decaying radiation sources. In developed countries, linear accelerators (LINACs) have replaced cobalt teletherapy machines for modern radiotherapy. LINACs offer highly accurate treatment with advanced imaging techniques, reduced treatment times, and uniform dose delivery rates. They can also adjust radiation depending on tumor size and density, decreasing damage to healthy cells.
Varian’s Halcyon Radiation Therapy System focuses on meeting clinician needs for appropriate treatment delivery. It drives innovation in operational excellence, high-quality care, and human-centered design. With simple, efficient, compact, and patient-centered technology, the Halcyon system allows clinicians to deliver straightforward, high-quality treatments. Its streamlined process enables clinics to treat more patients while maintaining quality and safety. Additionally, it may reduce capital costs and improve productivity by offering accurate visualisation of internal anatomy along with precise dose delivery. Halcyon also provides expedited commissioning, reducing installation time and construction costs.
Shifting from a fragmented to an integrated approach in cancer care is essential. The current siloed cancer care pathway prevents optimal collaboration between cancer specialists, primary care physicians, and healthcare providers, hindering patient outcomes. Ensuring connectivity between academic institutions, cancer treatment centers, community oncology practices, and primary care providers is crucial for continued progress in cancer care. Empowering physicians to focus more on treating patients than on managing technology is a shared goal for both physicians and technology solution providers.
With Varian now part of Siemens Healthineers, two leaders in imaging and radiation therapy have united, combining expertise to transform oncology and achieve new advancements in cancer treatment. Better outcomes are attained when people, technology, and data connect patients and providers at all points of care. Varian’s products and services span from diagnosis through treatment to survivorship, addressing all needs of cancer patients.