Malti Sachdev, Sr Vice President and Head, Varian – A Siemens Healthineers Company highlights that aided with high-precision beam shaping, EDGE by Varian focuses radiation doses precisely on the tumor while minimising damage to surrounding healthy tissues
Cancer treatment has seen noteworthy advancements in recent years, with innovations in radiation therapy and radiosurgery significantly improving patient outcomes. Radiation therapy, a critical tool in oncology, targets and eradicates cancer cells using high-energy radiation. Traditionally, this involves delivering lower doses of radiation over multiple sessions to treat larger areas. In contrast, radiosurgery offers a more focused approach, delivering high doses of radiation in fewer sessions to target smaller or inoperable tumors with great precision.
Among the most innovative solutions in this field is Varian’s EDGE, a cutting-edge radiosurgery system that exemplifies the future of cancer care. EDGE is designed to deliver highly accurate radiation therapy, employing real-time tumor tracking technology to monitor the tumor’s movement throughout the treatment. This ensures that radiation is delivered precisely, even if the tumor shifts due to patient movement or physiological changes. This capability is vital for treating tumors that may be in constant motion or located in challenging areas.
The EDGE system features image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) capabilities. Before and during treatment, EDGE uses advanced imaging technology to accurately locate and target the tumor. Aided with high-precision beam shaping, EDGE focuses radiation doses precisely on the tumor while minimising damage to surrounding healthy tissues. It is particularly effective for tumors in complex areas like the brain and spine, where traditional surgical approaches might be risky or impractical.
EDGE offers rapid treatment delivery, significantly reducing the overall time required for therapy while enhancing patient comfort. Unlike conventional radiation therapy, which typically involves multiple sessions spread over weeks or months, EDGE delivers a high dose of radiation in fewer sessions. This streamlined approach not only makes the treatment process more convenient for patients but also minimises disruptions to their daily lives. By cutting down on the number of visits and treatment time, EDGE allows patients to return to their routines sooner, facilitating a quicker recovery and offering greater flexibility in scheduling.
The integration of HyperArc technology with EDGE further enhances its capabilities. HyperArc’s automated radiosurgery solutions streamline the treatment process with specialised algorithms for automatic planning and delivery. This optimisation allows for simultaneous treatment of multiple tumors from a single point, known as a ‘single isocentre,’ with minimal manual adjustments. Consequently, patients benefit from a precise, faster, and more comfortable treatment experience.
EDGE is versatile, and suitable for treating various cancer types. Its ability to address both primary and metastatic tumors with high precision makes it a valuable tool in modern oncology.
The system’s non-invasive nature means no incisions, no lengthy recovery periods, and minimal risk of complications such as infections. This is particularly beneficial for patients who may not be suitable for surgery due to age or other health conditions.
In India, where the population is vast and cancer cases are on the rise, the introduction of EDGE is particularly beneficial. EDGE provides a significant advantage by offering precise, high-quality care locally, thus alleviating the need for patients to travel abroad for state-of-the-art treatment. This technology enhances the capacity of Indian healthcare facilities to deliver world-class care, contributing to better outcomes and accessibility for patients in the country.
Varian’s EDGE signifies a transformative shift in radiosurgery, combining precision, efficiency, and versatility to elevate comprehensive cancer care. As oncology continues to advance, technologies like EDGE will play a crucial role in shaping future treatments, offering patients innovative solutions that enhance both effectiveness and quality of life.
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