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New Radiation Technology Gives Cancer Patients New Hope

In the past, a diagnosis of inoperable lung or brain cancer meant limited treatment choices. But new technology at Halifax Health will soon give these patients new options.

The Novalis Tx^TM targets deep-seated cancers in hard-to-reach areas such as the brain, spine, prostate, lung and liver. It can also be used to treat breast cancer. Unlike previous methods, this technology delivers radiation in fewer treatments and with fewer side effects, without exposing nearby healthy tissue to radiation.

“The Novalis Tx offers more treatment options than other machines,” said Brad Factor, MD, a board certified radiation oncologist at Halifax Health.

Image-Guided Treatment

The Novalis Tx uses special imaging systems to help doctors target a tumor. The machine can take an x-ray or CT scan before, during and after each treatment to identify the tumor’s location. It can even track motion, such as a patient’s breathing, so the treatment team can make adjustments and ensure the radiation is still directed at the tumor, not at adjacent normal tissue.

The technology is designed to deliver extremely accurate treatments. It shapes the radiation beam to 2.5 mm, which is four times smaller than traditional beams. More precise treatment results in higher cure rates and fewer side effects.

Patient Comfort and Convenience

Some treatments with the Novalis Tx may last about 20 minutes — compared to several hours with other machines. “It’s definitely easier on patients,” said Dr. Factor. Compared to traditional radiosurgery treatment in the brain, patients don’t need to wear a rigid head frame to keep the head still, since imaging helps doctors detect movement.

“We’re excited to offer this state-of-theart technology to our community,” said Dr. Factor. “We appreciate the opportunity to have the newest technology available for our patients.”