News Flash
Reported: Vishal Mayur
09 October
Advanced technology to provide targeted and effective cancer care at Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru
Bengaluru: In a pioneering move in the field of cancer treatment, Aster DM Healthcare has launched India’s first Intra-Operative Electron Radiation Therapy (IOERT) at the Aster International Institute of Oncology (AIIO), Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru. This development marks a significant step forward in the hospital's mission to offer advanced cancer care. The introduction of IOERT promises to improve treatment precision, reduce the number of post-operative radiation sessions, and accelerate patient recovery.
The state-of-the-art machine will enable more precise radiation delivery during surgery, targeting residual cancer cells left after tumor removal. IOERT works by concentrating radiation on the tumor site, minimizing the exposure of healthy surrounding tissue, and reducing the need for multiple radiation sessions after surgery. This approach not only enhances the chances of successful treatment but also contributes to faster recovery times for patients.
Aster International Institute of Oncology, which specializes in comprehensive cancer care, robotic surgery, and advanced therapies, is already recognized for its cutting-edge oncology services, including the first installation of Surface Guided Radiation Therapy (SGRT) in Karnataka. The addition of IOERT further strengthens the hospital’s commitment to providing world-class cancer treatment options.
Alisha Moopen, Deputy Managing Director of Aster DM Healthcare, emphasized the significance of the IOERT introduction, noting that it represents a critical advancement in cancer care for the Indian healthcare system. "By integrating this technology, we are stepping into a new frontier of precision oncology, offering more effective, targeted treatments that enable faster recovery. Our goal is to set new standards in cancer care and ensure that our patients have access to the most sophisticated tools available globally,” she stated.
Dr. Somashekhar S P, Global Director of Aster International Institute of Oncology, highlighted the impact of IOERT on treating complex and advanced cancers. “With IOERT, we are now able to offer treatment options for patients where conventional therapies have limitations. This technology allows us to target residual cancer cells with greater precision, reducing recurrence rates and improving long-term outcomes,” Dr. Somashekhar explained. He added that IOERT would provide hope to patients dealing with difficult-to-treat cancers by improving both the success rate and the quality of life for survivors.
Cancer cases in India are projected to rise by 57.5% by 2040, according to a report by GLOBOCAN, which makes innovations like IOERT essential in addressing the increasing burden of cancer in the country. IOERT has shown particular efficacy in treating cancers such as breast, gastrointestinal, and lung cancers, where precision and early intervention are critical to improving patient outcomes.
Dr. M S Beliappa, Head of the Department and Lead Consultant in Radiation Oncology at Aster Hospitals, Bengaluru, noted the advancement IOERT brings to cancer care in India. “This technology offers unparalleled precision in delivering high-dose radiation directly to the cancer site during surgery, which not only enhances treatment outcomes but also minimizes side effects, allowing for faster recovery,” Dr. Beliappa said. He further added that this breakthrough technology would revolutionize the way cancer is treated by reducing the need for extended radiation therapy sessions, which are often taxing on patients.
Dr. Felipe Calvo, Co-Director of the Department of Radiation Oncology at Cancer Centre Clinica Universidad de Navarra in Madrid, emphasized the importance of this technology in the global cancer care landscape, stating, “IOERT has proven its efficacy in Europe, and its adoption in India signifies a leap forward in cancer treatment. By delivering targeted radiation during surgery, we are able to minimize the chances of cancer recurrence and significantly improve patient outcomes.”
The launch of IOERT at Aster Whitefield Hospital is a crucial development in the healthcare landscape, showcasing the hospital's dedication to adopting cutting-edge technology to improve cancer care in India. Francesco Zanetti, President and CEO of SIT, the company behind the development of the IOERT machine, expressed his excitement, calling it a pivotal moment in advancing cancer treatment. “We are proud to partner with Aster Whitefield Hospital in bringing IOERT to India. This equipment empowers oncologists to offer personalized, precision-based treatments that enhance survival rates and improve the overall quality of cancer care in the country,” Zanetti remarked.
The integration of IOERT at Aster Whitefield is expected to bring several benefits to cancer patients. Among these are:
- Immediate Action: IOERT delivers radiation directly after tumor removal during surgery, preventing rapid regrowth of microscopic cancer cells.
- Enhanced Precision: The therapy allows for accurate radiation delivery by directly visualizing the target area during surgery.
- Reduced Treatment Time: Patients often require only a single session of IOERT, significantly cutting down the extended duration typical of traditional radiation therapy.
- Minimized Side Effects: By targeting only the tumor site, IOERT helps protect healthy tissues, resulting in fewer side effects like skin damage and fatigue.
As India continues to grapple with the increasing incidence of cancer, the introduction of IOERT positions Aster Whitefield Hospital at the forefront of innovative cancer treatment. The hospital’s ongoing efforts to combine cutting-edge technology with compassionate care demonstrate its commitment to improving cancer treatment outcomes for patients across the country.