Skagit Valley Hospital has purchased an Elekta Axesse system to add the latest generation of Elekta technology to its group cancer treatment systems.
The new system is for the entire body and has features which allow clinicians to treat cancer tumours more precisely and effectively.Mount Vernon, Washington-based Skagit Valley Hospital Regional Cancer Care Center has been using Elekta’s pioneering technologies since 2006 for intensity-modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT) and image-guided Radiotherapy (IGRT) treatments. The addition of Elekta Axesse means the hospital can now offer treatment to more patients for a wider range of cancer tumours. The advanced three-dimensional (3D) imaging capabilities of Elekta Axesse facilitate rapid, precise targeting of tumours, and the highly conformal radiation delivery system effectively treats tumours throughout the body while minimising exposure to nearby healthy tissue. The system enables sub-millimetre accuracy by planning in 3D and imaging patients in 3D prior to treatment. In addition, the system’s sophisticated software – including one integrated display monitor with treatment planning, electronic Medical record (EMR) technology and system controls – Elekta Axesse streamlines clinicians’ workflow to help cut treatment times for patients. “The addition of Elekta Axesse to our facility is great news for both clinicians and patients. Our clinicians will see a more efficient workflow while patients will get the benefit of shorter treatment times,” said Peggy Perry, oncology service line director at Skagit Valley Hospital Regional Cancer Care Center. “It also means that we can treat up to 20 more patients a day for a wider range of tumours including those in the lung, liver and prostate.” Skagit Valley Hospital Regional Cancer Care Center is a 17,000 ft2 facility, currently treating around 45 radiation patients during a 12-hour scheduling window. The centre will take delivery of the Elekta Axesse in October 2008, and begin treating patients shortly thereafter.
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