New prostate cancer treatment now available

New prostate cancer treatment now available

We are now treating prostate cancer patients using New Zealand’s first MRI linear accelerator (MR Linac).

The MR Linac represents “transformational change” in treating soft tissue cancers, according to Dr Brendon Anderson, our Clinical Director and Radiation Oncologist.

“Its superior imaging quality allows us to see tumours and account for changes in the position, size and shape of the tumour whilst the patient is on treatment, as well as monitoring the natural movement of the patient as they breathe and swallow during each treatment session.

“These highly accurate, real-time images of a tumour during radiotherapy sessions means the radiation can be delivered very precisely and in stronger doses than previously possible. There is also less chance of radiation affecting surrounding healthy tissue, which can cause side effects.

“Fewer treatments are required – with less time off work or away from home and family. This can be the difference between five treatments over 10 days; instead of 20 treatments over four weeks,” he says.

St George’s Cancer Care Centre is the only clinic in New Zealand – public or private – offering treatment using the MR Linac.

“MR Linacs have only been available for about five years and this technology makes us New Zealand’s national centre of excellence for cancer treatment,” he says.

“Some patients have already gone to Australia or further afield in search of this treatment, but now they can be treated right here in New Zealand.”

By the end of the year the MR Linac will also be used to treat patients with other soft tissue cancers, including some cancers which were previously unsuitable for radiation, such as pancreatic cancer.