Thanks to their new MR-Linac technology from Varian, the Ottawa Hospital is taking bold new steps in the province’s fight against cancer. This innovative machine, which cost $10 million, combines MRI imaging with a radiation machine, offering enhanced precision in targeting cancer cells. The hospital’s cancer centre at the General campus received this state-of-the-art equipment close to a year ago. It’s now the only facility with such MR-Linac technology, outside of Toronto.
Dr. Marc Gaudet, head of the division of radiation oncology at The Ottawa Hospital, said the technology is “indeed phenomenal.” In June, clinicians successfully treated their first patient with MR-Linac technology. The groundbreaking treatment will especially help those battling prostate and pancreatic cancers, with an estimated 150 to 200 patients expected to benefit.
A Leader in Radiation Oncology
The Ottawa Hospital is home to one of the largest radiation departments in North America. This remarkable capacity brings it to the leading edge of cancer care. By merging the best of MRI and radiation technology with the MR-Linac, healthcare professionals can hit a level of precision never reached before. Dr. Gaudet emphasized that this technology provides a level of insight comparable to “20-20 vision” for cancer detection. It unprecedentedly provides for pinpoint targeting of cancerous lesions.
“This allows us to push the envelope quite a bit because you know exactly what you are aiming for.” – Marc Gaudet, Head of Radiation Oncology at The Ottawa Hospital
The unprecedented precision provided by this technology is especially beneficial for the treatment of complex and hard-to-reach tumours that could shift during treatment. Real-time adaptations to radiation delivery depending on the tumor’s location increase treatment efficacy. This strategy further reduces the impact of treatments on patients themselves.
An Engineering Marvel
Dr. Miller MacPherson, the head of medical physics at The Ottawa Hospital, called the MR-Linac technology exciting. He described it as an “engineering marvel.” This description captures the multidisciplinary collaboration and complex melding of imaging and treatment modalities that define a remarkable new advance in radiation therapy.
“It makes it much tighter and much more precise,” – Marc Gaudet
By combining MRI imaging with radiation treatment, we’re not only increasing accuracy, but maximizing the chance of achieving the best possible outcome for patients. This technology better positions us to deliver the right therapy to the right patient at the right time, which are key tenets of precision cancer care.
Future Implications for Cancer Treatment
As these changes take shape, the Ottawa Hospital is going all in on advanced technologies like the MR-Linac. This commitment ensures a more hopeful future for cancer patients across the region. This machine has unprecedented capabilities that will transform the ways oncologists create treatment plans. It is uniquely suited to address the needs of patients who are fighting aggressive or difficult to treat cancers.
To their credit, collective work of talented individuals at The Ottawa Hospital is a shining example of putting innovation to use in healthcare. The advent of MR-Linac technology is an exciting breakthrough in the pursuit for more successful, efficient cancer treatments.
