Saint John's Cancer Center to Acquire Latest Technology
Saint John's Cancer Center is acquiring a new Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) linear accelerator this summer. The IMRT is the latest available technology in the nation for radiation therapy.

IMRT raises the standard for radiation therapy delivery and Madison County is fortunate to be among the first to receive it. In the past, radiation therapy equipment was capable of delivering a beam with only one level of radiation. With IMRT technology, the level of energy can fluctuate throughout the beam, delivering higher does to only the tumor tissue and sparing the surrounding normal tissue. This reduction of radiation to normal tissue reduces complications related to radiation therapy and increases the rate of local tumor control by delivering higher, more targeted levels of radiation to the tumor tissue.

"We are very excited about bringing this new, state-of-the-art technology, IMRT, to our patients here at Saint John's Cancer Center. IMRT will enable us to provide even better care to our patients, particularly those with prostate cancers, brain tumors and head and neck cancers,and to continue our high quality tradition of caring for patients with cancer," said Stan Givens MD, radiation oncologist, Saint John's Cancer Center.

In addition, the Saint John's Cancer Center is acquiring a digital imaging system to work in concert with the IMRT technology. The digital imaging system will provide dynamic images of the treatment area affording a greater level of accuracy to the radiation treatment.

"By adding the IMRT technology to the Cancer Center this summer, Saint John's is continuing our long commitment to quality and personalized care to the cancer patients of Madison County," said Kyle De Fur, Saint John's president.

"Saint John's Cancer Center has had a history of bringing the best care possible to our patients through our dedicated staff and advanced technology. We offer some of the most knowledgeable and caring medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, therapists, nurses, dietitians, and spiritual counselors - all working together to bring the best care to the patient. The IMRT validates this continued commitment to quality care," said Joe Sensing, director of Cancer Services.

The acquisition of this new technology expands the opportunities for Saint John's Cancer Center to offer the most advanced methods of radiation treatments available. For more information, contact Saint John's Cancer Center at 646-8358.