Blackrock Health, combining Hermitage, Blackrock, Galway and Limerick Clinics, has invested €10million in two new radiotherapy machines. The first machine is now fully operational in Galway Clinic and the second will be in operation in Hermitage Clinic later this year. The announcement marks a significant development in cancer care services across the two sites.
The machines are designed to deliver highly precise radiation therapy to tumours, while sparing surrounding healthy tissue. The Elekta Versa HD uses advanced technologies like IGRT (image guided radiation therapy), IMRT (intensity modulated radiation therapy and VMAT (volumetric modulated radiation therapy) to improve accuracy and effectiveness of the treatments provided. The introduction of surface guided radiation therapy (VisionRT) in both hospitals will further improve the patient experience by eliminating the necessity for permanent marks on the patient’s skin. The versatility of the Elekta Versa HD will allow several treatment techniques, including conventional radiotherapy, stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) which will allow our teams flexibility to tailor treatment plans to offer the very best care for our patients.
Dr Joseph Martin, Consultant Radiation Oncologist in Blackrock Health Galway Clinic added: “At Blackrock Health, we are committed to delivering best-in-class care for our patients. With the incidence of cancer expected to more than double in men and almost double in women by 2045[i], investment in oncology services to enable more precise and personalised treatment is crucial. We are delighted to have commenced offering treatment with the new machine in Galway, ensuring patients have access to the latest technology.”
The investment will enhance quality of care for patients, including a reduction in treatment time. The new machine has the capability to reduce treatment time from 20-25 minutes down to 6-7 minutes on average. This will significantly benefit patients who are required to wear facial mask coverings during treatment or are required to have a full bladder for treatment.
Brid Carroll, Radiotherapy Services Manager in Blackrock Health Hermitage Clinic added: “The new radiotherapy Linacs will enhance treatment options for oncology patients, offering reduced treatment times and increased precision in our treatments. The advanced technology allows us to deliver higher doses of radiation to tumours, while sparing surrounding normal tissue. This not only makes the treatment more effective, but also reduces side effects, therefore improving overall quality of life for our patients. The reduction in treatment time will also allow us to treat more patients, as well as improve the comfort for those receiving treatment. For our staff in the department, (radiation therapists, medical physicists and medics), this new technology will allow us to continue to develop the service for the benefit of our patients. ”