Varian Halcyon system treats first European patient

Halcyon simplifies and enhances virtually every aspect of image-guided volumetric intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), and is designed to expand the availability of high-quality cancer care globally and help save the lives of millions more cancer patients.

It is well suited to handle the majority of cancer patients, offering advanced treatments for lung, esophagus, brain, head & neck, and many other forms of cancer.

"We selected the Halcyon system because of its potential to accelerate the treatment workflow and allow for a much closer connection between the patient and therapist," said professor Karin Haustermans, MD, chair of the department, UZ Leuven.

"Having now completed our first treatments I can say that Halcyon lived up to its promise of a more efficient workflow and better integration of imaging and treatment, which resulted in a much faster overall treatment time."

"We are very proud to have partnered with UZ Leuven on making Halcyon treatments available to patients in Europe just two months after the hospital ordered this new system," said Kolleen Kennedy, president of Varian's Oncology Systems business.

"The treatments beginning at UZ Leuven are another important step in continuing our efforts of advancing cost-effective cancer care worldwide."