Proton therapy platform introduced by Varian

1 June 2010

Varian Medical Systems (NYSE: VAR) has launched the fully-integrated ProBeam proton therapy system. The new system incorporates imaging, gating, robotic patient positioning, treatment planning and oncology information software to enhance treatment quality for patients and workflow efficiency for clinicians.

The system incorporates Dynamic Peak integrated scanning technology which paints a precise radiation dose on the target volume, enabling true intensity modulated proton therapy. The system also incorporates proprietary pencil-beam scanning technology, which allows for precise dose distribution.

 ProBeam uses Varian’s 250 MeV super-conducting cyclotron and features, and includes a streamlined treatment console with a modern, graphical, easy-to-use interface that consolidates all controls for imaging, treatment and motion management. Treatment process and workflows are simplified and easy to learn, with a ‘follow the light’ guidance system that is designed to enhance usability and promote safety by guiding therapists through the steps of even the most complex treatments.

“ProBeam is the result of decades of leadership in proton therapy research and development and it has been designed from the ground-up to meet the needs of clinicians and patients alike,” said Moataz Karmalawy, head of Varian’s particle therapy group. “This fully integrated system can be used for all forms of advanced proton therapy including image-guided proton therapy and intensity-modulated proton therapy.”

The ProBeam interface has the same design as Varian’s recently-announced TrueBeam system for radiation therapy and TrueBeam STx system for radiosurgery. “It’s structured and organized the way oncology clinics work every day,” added Moataz Karmalawy.

“ProBeam simplifies the proton therapy treatment process for clinicians and patients alike,” says Lester Boeh, head of Varian’s emerging businesses group. “Varian is bringing the same integrated, automated and versatile approach to proton therapy as it has for many years of leadership in radiation therapy.”