New TrueBeam™ Linear Accelerator treats cancer faster, deals effectively with tumor motion and improves the patient experience.

{image_1}Minnesota Oncology took a significant step to advance cancer care in the Twin Cities with the addition of a cutting-edge radiotherapy system. This week, the new Varian TrueBeam® radiotherapy system was put in service at the Maplewood Cancer Center.

The state-of-the-art linear accelerator delivers faster, more precise radiation therapy treatments.

“The Varian TrueBeam is a significant step in elevating the fight against cancer,” said John Schwerkoske, MD, President of Minnesota Oncology. “We are committed to providing the latest in cancer care right here in the Twin Cities. This latest advancement will expand the treatment options that we can offer and will also improve the experience for patients by reducing the time it takes to receive treatment.”

{image_2}Cancer treatments are changing. The TrueBeam™ Linear Accelerator system is the latest advance in radiotherapy technology. Developed from the ground up to deliver powerful cancer treatments with pinpoint accuracy and precision, TrueBeam opens the door to new possibilities for the treatment of challenging cases such as cancers in the lung, breast, abdomen, and head and neck as well as other cancers that are treatable with radiotherapy.

Treatments can be performed with unparalleled ease, precision, and speed. In fact, most treatments take just a few minutes a day. As well as allowing for a more comfortable experience for patients with less time on the treatment couch, faster delivery also allows for reduced chances of patient motion during treatment. The advantages for clinicians include enhanced imaging capabilities and the ability to treat targets with improved speed and accuracy. TrueBeam allows the oncologist to minimize toxicity to normal tissues by treating a small precise area. This translates into reduced treatment times for patients with more precision and local control.

{image_3}TrueBeam was designed with many features that can improve the overall patient experience. With shorter treatment times and quieter operation, TrueBeam provides for a more comfortable environment for patients. Enhanced communication technology enables a constant interaction between the patient and the therapist who operates the equipment. Three closed-circuit television systems enable the therapist to monitor the patient at all times. Music can be played during treatment, helping to increase patient comfort.

“It’s very exciting to bring this level of cutting-edge technology to our patients,” said Ellen Bellairs, MD, head of the radiation oncology program at Minnesota Oncology. “The level of precision that the TrueBeam offers is remarkable and expands our ability to treat very small lesions in sensitive areas of the body, like the brain.”

Learn more about the TrueBeam Linnear Accelerator at Minnesota Oncology: http://bit.ly/mnotruebeam

About Minnesota Oncology
Minnesota Oncology includes specialists in medical oncology, radiation oncology, hematology, gynecologic oncology, thoracic and plastic surgery – as well as on-site laboratory services and access to its specialty oncology care pharmacy. With over 100 providers – physicians, physician assistants, and certified nurse practitioners – now practicing in 12 clinic locations across the greater Twin Cities metro area, Minnesota Oncology is the largest independent oncology practice in the state of Minnesota. https://mnoncology.com/