New Saskatoon cancer equipment delivers faster radiotherapy

Cancer patients needing radiation therapy in Saskatoon will now receive higher doses more quickly andwith greater precision thanks to a new piece of equipment.

TrueBeam is the most advanced linear accelerator and it'snow availableat the Saskatoon Cancer Centre.

"Acquiring the most advanced technology available for radiotherapy will help us better meet the current and future needs of cancer patients in Saskatchewan," Health Minister Dustin Duncan said.

"We are putting patients first with investments that enable improved, safe, quality care."

TrueBeam radiotherapy has the potential to open doors for the treatments of cancers in the lung, breast, prostate and spinal regions.- Scott Livingstone, CEO Saskatchewan Cancer Agency

TrueBeam radiotherapy can be used for treatment of all types of cancer, butit has the potential to open doors for the treatments of cancers in the lung,breast, prostate and spinal regions, saidScott Livingstone, CEO of the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency.

"This new technology, combined with ouroncologistsand radiation therapistsexpertise will offer improved patient care,"

The cost of the TrueBeam, and associated renovations, at the Saskatoon Cancer Centre is approximately$3.9M.

The funds come from the SaskatchewanMinistry of Health.

Installation is now complete. The system will soon be ready to treat its first cancer patient.

During the 2012-13 year, more than 37,000 radiation therapy sessions were conducted in Saskatchewan.