£2.6m radiotherapy machine boosting cancer care in Northampton
In the first three months of this year alone, the machine has delivered more than 1,500 high-dose radiotherapy treatments to over 100 patients
A cutting-edge £2.6 million radiotherapy machine at Northampton General Hospital is helping enhance cancer care for patients across Northamptonshire.
Funded by NHS England as part of a government initiative, the Linear Accelerator (LINAC) machine was delivered to the hospital last August.
Since its arrival, £1 million has been invested in estate work, additional equipment, and thorough testing to prepare the machine for patient use.
In the first three months of this year alone, the machine has delivered more than 1,500 high-dose radiotherapy treatments to over 100 patients.
Dr Mark Cowen, Head of Radiotherapy Physics at Northampton General Hospital, highlighted the machine's reliability and advanced technology.
"We are one of the first centres in the UK to use a new form of advanced imaging (Varian's HyperSight), which is a technological step-change in image quality and speed during radiotherapy treatments," Cowen said.
He described the machine as resembling a large CT scanner, weighing seven tonnes, and capable of delivering precise radiation doses with 1mm accuracy.
Using the new machine alongside two older Linear Accelerators, the hospital plans to administer approximately 22,000 treatments to 1,700 cancer patients each year.
Dr Jenny Branagan, Consultant Clinical Oncologist and Radiotherapy Oncologist Lead, expressed excitement over the technology's benefits in cancer treatment.
"Access to new, more modern equipment is an integral part of providing the best possible care for our patients," Branagan said.
Radiotherapy treatments at Northampton General Hospital are administered by a multi-disciplinary team, employing advanced computer systems and imaging techniques for optimal and safe patient care.
Northampton General Hospital NHS Trust is one of five Midlands hospitals that received new LINAC machines, part of a £70 million government investment aimed at improving cancer care through the Plan for Change announced last year.
The allocation of LINAC machines nationwide, organised by NHS England's Specialised Commissioning teams, is intended to provide innovative radiotherapy treatments and reduce health inequalities.