Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center Acquires Elekta Versa HD Radiotherapy System

Cancer Center is first facility in the region to offer pioneering cancer-fighting technology, setting the new standard for speed and precision

(Baton Rouge, La.) The latest, most sophisticated cancer treatment system available, Versa HD, developed by Elekta, is now available for patients in the Baton Rouge and surrounding communities. This new cancer treatment technology was recently acquired by Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center, making it one of the first facilities in the country offering this state-of-the-art technology. “With Versa HD, we can cut the treatment times for many of our patients significantly,” said Dr. Charles Wood, radiation oncologist at Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center. “This new technology has the potential to allow us to add more patients to the daily radiotherapy schedule and reduce the number of treatments. Just as important, the decreased treatment time per session will enhance the patient experience.” Shortened treatment times can also improve patient comfort, particularly for senior patients who may find it difficult to remain in one position over extended periods of time. Softer streamlined shapes and ergonomic features combine with low mechanical noise and ambient lighting effects to help create a confident and relaxed patient treatment environment. From enhanced patient safety features to greater environmental friendliness, Versa HD reflects carefully conceived design innovations and enables expanded patient treatment capabilities. Versa HD leverages the latest advances in technology to enable treatment of traditionally challenging cases. The system’s patented technology provides superior conformance to tumor size, shape and volume, allowing Cancer Center clinicians to administer higher dose rates in less time, which can enhance treatment effectiveness while protecting critical structures such as the heart, spine, or bladder. “Versa HD enables even more conformal treatments that should significantly limit normal tissue exposure and decrease side effects,” said Dr. Wood. “We can deliver these state-of-the-art techniques with Versa HD and do it such a way that it not only manages their cancer, but also minimizes the impact of treatment on their quality of life.” Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center is the most comprehensive cancer center in Louisiana offering patients the convenience of receiving high-quality, advanced care close to home. The Cancer Center is part of the National Cancer Institute Community Cancer Centers Program (NCCCP), a group of competitively selected cancer centers that is developing a national model for community cancer care.