Proton beam therapy is an advanced form of external radiotherapy that uses high-energy proton beams instead of photon x-ray beams or electrons. Carefully measured doses of protons are delivered to the precise area needing treatment, using the latest IBA ProteusONE technology. This ensures that the delivery of proton beam therapy is highly accurate and prevents the risk of radiation reaching surrounding healthy tissue.
Radiotherapy is used to kill and destroy cancer cells. It utilises radiation in the form of high-energy x-rays, known as photons, to kill and damage the cancerous cells and prevent their growth and reproduction. It can be used as a non-surgical option to treat cancer, and it can also be used to shrink a tumour or in combination with other treatments.
The Rutherford Cancer Centres and Elekta are bringing the next generation of personalised adaptive radiotherapy technology to oncology centres across the UK, with the new MR-linac Elekta Unity available at the Rutherford Cancer Centre North West in Liverpool in 2021.
Dedicated to providing the highest quality cancer care, with access to advanced treatments coupled with personalised care and support, some of our patients have shared their cancer journeys and their voice to help others in similar situations.
"The Rutherford centre has given me my life back unblemished."
Timon was diagnosed with prostate cancer in December 2017, following a full private medical check with his insurance provider. Test results from his check-up showed a raised PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) level and a biopsy confirmed that it was cancer. Timon was shocked at the diagnosis as he felt fit and healthy.
"The actual treatment takes less than two minutes a side - it ends and you just go home."
Oxfordshire-based Dennis Allen was initially diagnosed with prostate cancer in March 2018 after a regular blood test at his GP practice prompted his doctor to do a PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) test. Unfortunately, the test results came back higher than desired and a subsequent biopsy confirmed that it was cancer.
"I remember the first day I walked into the Rutherford Cancer Centre, I was reassured."
Simon was the first patient to be treated with high energy proton beam therapy here in the UK at the Rutherford Cancer Centres. Meeting with the team at the Rutherford Cancer Centre South Wales, Simon made history in Spring 2018 when he became the first patient to experience this here in the UK, leading the way for various others who have since embarked on this treatment option in their own fight against cancer.