MR-linac radiotherapy

Cancers we treat with MR-linac radiotherapy

Before treatment begins, an oncologist will discuss and explain the full aim of the MR-linac radiotherapy treatment plan and if further services will be required alongside it. MR-linac radiotherapy can be used as a sole method for treating certain cancers or used in combination with other cancer services, such as chemotherapy, or to ensure that any remaining cancerous cells are destroyed following tumour removal surgery.

We are working towards being able to offer treatment for all suitable body areas with MR-linac radiotherapy. Contact us for further information on the current availability and suitability of MR-linac radiotherapy.

Areas of the body* that can be treated using MR-linac radiotherapy: 

• Bladder
• Breast
• Esophagus
• Glioblastoma
• Liver
• Lung
• Oropharynx
• Pancreas
• Prostate
• Rectum
• Stomach

*The suitability of treating certain body areas with MR-linac radiotherapy is dependant on the location and staging of the cancer.

How MR-linac radiotherapy is delivered

Integrating MR (magnetic resonance) with precision RT (radiotherapy) makes it possible to see the target tumour and soft tissue during treatment. This intelligent and pioneering technology will enable real-time visual tracking, enabling daily treatment adaption when treating cancer patients. The Elekta Unity MR-linac transforms the conventional radiotherapy workflow to a scan, plan, treat approach—to truly enable personalised radiotherapy for every patient, every time.

Scan:
Visualise daily changes with sub-millimetre resolution.

Plan:
React to changes in the tumour and reshape the dose.

Treat:
See the tumour while treating with stereotactic precision.

Putting the patient experience first

Elekta Unity has been carefully designed to make the treatment - for patients of all shapes and sizes - as comfortable as possible.  In addition to the wide tunnel size and positioning options, a laser free workflow benefits the patient as it reduces set-up time by avoiding manual tattoo alignment. The patient-centric design includes:

• Short tunnel length and wide tunnel diameter
• Comfortable patient positioning
• Soothing and relaxing environment

At the Rutherford Cancer Centres it’s important that patients are supported at all times during treatment but also afterwards. This includes regular follow-up checks with treatment teams and consultants, as well as access to supportive care services.

At the forefront of advancements in cancer care

The Rutherford Cancer Centres and Elekta are bringing the latest radiotherapy treatment technology to cancer centres across the UK.

Patient choice is central to our cancer treatment and care approach. We are expanding treatment services,  and are providing clinicians with the opportunity to offer their patients more treatment options.

There are opportunities for clinicians to get involved and develop their professional skills in this exciting area of treatment and research. Opportunities include:

• Access to Elekta MR-linac consortium to promote knowledge and collaborate with industry leaders and peers, who can ensure world-class manufacturing and trusted service and support infrastructure to match your clinical needs, and drive development and clinical evidence generation
• Clinical and imaging protocol development for the unique MR-linac platform built with workflow and patient needs in mind
• Expanding treatment options as the Elekta Unity provides an opportunity to manage hard-to-treat cancers and increase patient treatment options

The MR-linac will be available in Liverpool from late 2020. To find out more please contact the Rutherford Cancer Centre North West.

We're here for you

It’s important that you feel supported, not only during your treatment but also afterwards, to give your body the best possible chance to heal.

After treatments your recovery will be supported by regular follow-up checks with your consultant. These will vary depending on the area of your body that's been treated, and the amount of treatment you've received. Follow-up appointments are used to help keep track of your recovery, so if you have any concerns you will have the opportunity to discuss them with your consultant.

The diagnosis of cancer combined with possible side effects can affect how you feel. Your treatment team is here to support you, and we encourage you to talk to us. Sometimes just talking about your emotions can be of great help and if necessary, we can arrange for further advice and support.

 Macmillan Cancer Support offers a wide range of information and support, as well as help with your practical, emotional, and financial needs. All telephone helplines are free and confidential, and interpreting services are also available.

Freephone: 0808 808 00 00 (Monday to Friday, 9.00am – 8.00pm)
www.macmillan.org.uk