Precision cancer care at tenfold the speed of conventional imaging technologies

MedTech & Diagnostics News: Icon Cancer Centre Holmesglen in Victoria has embraced Varian’s HyperSight technology, revolutionising imaging capabilities by capturing high-resolution tumour images in a mere six seconds, a speed tenfold greater than conventional systems. This exceptional medical technology advancement is poised to elevate cancer treatment guidance, ensuring optimal care for patients.

Pioneering as one of the premier centres in the Southern Hemisphere to integrate Varian’s HyperSight, Icon Cancer Centre is setting a new standard in cancer treatment. A “revolution in resolution”, according to Kevin O’Reilly, President of Radiation Oncology Solutions for Varian, HyperSight leverages cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) to provide images with unparalleled contrast and superior quality.

Developed by Varian, a Siemens Healthineers company, HyperSight received TGA approval for use on Varian’s Ethos and Halcyon image-guided radiation therapy systems in February this year. Its ability to encompass a larger imaging area with remarkable precision and speed surpasses conventional technologies on radiation therapy systems, reducing patient discomfort and anxiety during treatments.

Recent comparative research evaluating Varian HyperSight against Varian Truebeam kV-CBCT (TB) and GE Siemens kV-FBCT CT scanner (GE) in standard pelvis, thorax, and breast protocols reaffirms HyperSight’s supriority. The study showcased several instances where HyperSight’s imaging exhibited superior quality, and in other cases where resolution was on par with TB or GE, HyperSight’s performance remained consistently equivalent.

Claire Smith, Director of Radiation Therapy at Icon Group, emphasised the technology’s profound impact, stating, “We can pinpoint and map tumours in the patient almost in real time.” She highlighted the significant benefits already witnessed in the early stages of implementation, emphasising the positive effects on clinical teams, patients, and operational workflows.

“We are still assessing the impact it is having on our clinical workflows, like preventing unnecessary trips to a CT scanner, and reducing the time a patient needs to be on the treatment bed. Having this capability on the machine in the treatment room is already proving positive with our radiation therapists,” said Ms Smith.

In contrast to traditional radiation therapy imaging systems, which can take up to 60 seconds and necessitate patients to hold their breath for a clear image, HyperSight is designed to significantly reduce motion-related image blurring. Particularly critical in lung, liver, and left breast cancer cases where tumours are prone to movement, HyperSight’s innovation ensures clear, precise imaging at the point of treatment.

HyperSight images provide crucial data detailing how radiation therapy treatment impacts both the tumor and surrounding anatomy. The improved quality of CBCT images enables precise calculations of changes within the tumor and nearby organs. Previously, such calculations were hindered by image quality limitations or necessitated additional CT scans on separate machines, potentially prolonging the patient’s stay in the hospital.

As HyperSight continues to demonstrate its potential, Ms Smith remains optimistic about its broader application across cancer centres in Australia and beyond, foreseeing its potential to streamline clinical workflows and minimize patient time on the treatment bed.

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