On April 27, 2016 Varian Medical Systems (NYSE: VAR), reported that its 3D volumetric imaging technology is now being used at a California proton therapy center to enhance the precision and quality of its treatments for cancer patients (Press release, Varian Medical Systems, APR 27, 2016, View Source [SID:1234511483]). The treatments with image-guided intensity modulated proton therapy (IMPT) are being delivered on Varian’s ProBeam system at Scripps Proton Therapy Center in San Diego.

Schedule your 30 min Free 1stOncology Demo!
Discover why more than 1,500 members use 1stOncology™ to excel in:

Early/Late Stage Pipeline Development - Target Scouting - Clinical Biomarkers - Indication Selection & Expansion - BD&L Contacts - Conference Reports - Combinatorial Drug Settings - Companion Diagnostics - Drug Repositioning - First-in-class Analysis - Competitive Analysis - Deals & Licensing

                  Schedule Your 30 min Free Demo!

3D volumetric image-guided IMPT is enabled by Varian’s cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) technology and supports adaptive treatment planning and delivery wherein clinicians can revise plans based on what they see in images during the course of treatment. Volumetric imaging is particularly important for proton radiosurgery, an ultra-precise form of treatment. ProBeam cone beam imaging is based on the same leading technology used in Varian’s radiation oncology systems including the TrueBeam platform.

The unique combination of 3D volumetric imaging with controlled pencil beam scanning makes it possible to conform dose to the size, shape and location of the tumor while potentially reducing side effects. With proton therapy, the risk of damage to healthy tissues and potential side effects are reduced because proton beams can be controlled so that they deposit their energy within the tumor site rather than passing all the way through the patient.

"Volumetric imaging is enormously beneficial, because IMPT is very sensitive to anatomic changes," said Dr. Lei Dong, chief of Medical Physics, Scripps Proton Therapy Center. "For the optimum treatment we need to know of any changes, not only to the target, but also the anatomy outside of the target. The cone beam imaging on the Varian ProBeam System is excellent and stays true to the same high quality that I’ve seen on their photon systems."

"This is an important milestone for Varian where we are bringing the most advanced 3D imaging capability to the ProBeam system for proton therapy patients," said Dr. Moataz Karmalawy, general manager of Varian’s Particle Therapy division. "This should enable clinicians to deliver proton radiosurgery that will allow precise treatments for cancer patients to be completed in fewer sessions. It should be a win for everybody."

For more information on Varian’s proton therapy solutions, visit View Source