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New technology helps minimize radiation exposure
The newly-opened Orlando Health UF Health Cancer Center - Health Central Hospital is treating cancer patients with new, cutting-edge MRI-guided radiotherapy. The cancer-fighting technology is called MRIdian® and allows oncologists to see treatment areas in real-time while targeting them with precise radiation therapy. The facility is one of nine in the country to treat cancer with MRI-guided radiotherapy and only the second in Florida.
With the MRIdian® Linac from ViewRay® Inc. (Nasdaq: VRAY), magnetic resonance imaging and radiation therapy are fully integrated during the course of treatment, allowing for a targeted approach. The technology allows specialists to track and adjust its beam delivery to any subtle changes in the tumor and surrounding tissue during treatment. As a result, cancer patients benefit from truly personalized radiation therapy while minimizing radiation exposure to surrounding tissue.
"Fighting cancer requires a constant search for the latest advances in treatment and the MRIdian system is another example of our commitment to provide our patients with personalized, exceptional cancer treatment," said Dr. Daniel Buchholz, chairman of radiation oncology at Orlando Health. "Soft-tissue tumors have subtle, natural movement during treatment but this technology allows us to track and treat the tumor while sparing surrounding healthy tissue from radiation exposure, which may result in better outcomes and less side effects for our patients."
The MRIdian® System is one of the advanced treatment options available at the new Orlando Health UF Health Cancer - Health Central Hospital. The 30,000 square-foot Cancer Center was funded primarily by a $21 million grant from the West Orange Healthcare District and almost doubles the size of the previous facility located near Health Central Hospital. In addition to MRIdian® MRI-guided radiotherapy, the new Cancer Center features expanded chemotherapy and radiation treatment areas, medical oncology services, surgical oncology consultations, laboratory facilities and Cancer Support Community programs.
