Dr. Al Hammadi added, "Varian's equipment and software supports our belief in seamless care. The ability to implement both RapidArc and stereotactic radiosurgery using 3D image guidance allows us to offer greater precision. In addition, the ARIA?„? oncology information management system has enabled us go entirely paperless and fully integrate to the hospital's imaging systems, meaning better workflow and better overall patient care."

Part of the Hamad Medical Corporation, the government healthcare provider in the State of Qatar, Al Amal Hospital treats patients from across the Gulf region. Its patients represent a complex mix of all types of tumors, including pediatric cases and a large proportion of breast cancer patients. The department aims to become a recognized Centre of Excellence in image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT) for the region within two years.

RapidArc technology enables clinicians to deliver a highly-precise image-guided intensity-modulated radiotherapy treatment in as little as one or two revolutions of the treatment machine around the patient, much faster than is possible with conventional IMRT. Studies show that faster treatments allow for greater precision, since there is less chance of patient or tumor movement during treatment delivery and, with less time on the treatment couch, also allow for greater patient comfort.

SOURCE Varian Medical Systems, Inc.