Anyone facing a cancer diagnosis knows that the best treatment isn’t just effective, it’s accessible and compassionate. A new cancer treatment in our Springfield market is doing just that.
Effective, accessible and compassionate care is exactly what Mercy Health – Springfield Cancer Center is delivering with the installation of its new Varian TrueBeam Linear Accelerator (linac) – a new, cutting-edge technology our Springfield market is using for cancer treatment.
How is this new cancer treatment different?
TrueBeam is a radiotherapy system designed to treat tumors with high-energy X-rays that uses pinpoint precision to minimize damage of surrounding healthy tissue. This allows it to deliver radiation from virtually any angle using a rotating gantry arm.
It can perform advanced treatments like stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) – both known for their accuracy and reduced invasiveness.
These methods are often used when traditional surgery isn’t an option or when precision is critical. It’s especially effective for hard-to-reach areas like the brain, spine, lung and prostate.
Faster treatment
One of the most patient-friendly aspects of TrueBeam is its ability to shorten treatment schedules. Instead of daily sessions over several weeks, many patients can complete their therapy in one to five sessions over one to two weeks.
The system uses HyperSight™ imaging technology – rapid imaging during treatment. Patients no longer have to hold their breath or stay still for as long, which makes the experience more comfortable and less stressful during an already difficult time.
How does this new cancer treatment help patients in Springfield?
Traveling long distances is an extra hurdle for patients who need advanced cancer treatment. With TrueBeam now at Mercy Health – Springfield Cancer Center, patients can receive state-of-the-art care close to home.
“The last thing you want to do when you are ill is get in a car and travel long distances to get treatment,” says Lisa Gibson, director of oncology services at Mercy Health. “It will be so nice for our patients to be close to home to receive this highly technological treatment.”
How we can help
To ensure safe and effective use of the new equipment, five radiation therapists have completed advanced training and certification. Their expertise ensures that every patient receives care that’s not only technologically advanced but also delivered with compassion and precision.
This new cancer treatment furthers Mercy Health – Springfield Cancer Center’s commitment to offer their patients the best possible care without having to leave their community to receive it.
Outside of our Springfield market, Lorain and Youngstown also offer linac cancer treatment to their patients. Additionally, once phase two of the Mercy Health – Paducah Cancer Center is completed, this new cancer treatment will also be available to allow patients to receive cutting-edge treatment in their own community.
Learn about the cancer care and oncology services we offer at Mercy Health.
