Varian Algorithm for Proton Delivery Ready for Marketing
Varian Medical Systems received FDA clearance for their new proton scanning dose algorithm. The solution is to be integrated with Varian’s existing tool, the Eclipse treatment planning software. Varian issued a press release highlighting the news.
The proprietary algorithm provides clinicians with an increased level of control determining the amount of therapy that patients receive during treatment. The system allows for creation of plans to deliver intensity modulated proton therapy through dose optimization in three different directions. Improved planning minimizes the damage to surrounding tissues.
An additional benefit of the new algorithm is that treatment planning can be completed before delivery of therapy. Current approaches require radiation therapists to adjust the physical compensators which process the proton beams multiple times during a single treatment session. This process will be completely eliminated with use of the new Varian product.
Proton therapy is used to treat patients with malignancy and other structural abnormalities. Proton therapy is different from photon radiotherapy in that the treatment beams do not pass through the body. Instead, the therapy can be targeted to stop at a designated depth, such as at the tumor site, to deliver therapy directly.
December 21, 2007 Related topics: Radiation Oncology, Product Approval & Certification, New Technology & Innovation