Technology
Ridley-Tree Cancer Center is proud to provide the latest radiation oncology treatments available, including stereotactic radiosurgery, brachytherapy and image-guided radiation therapy. We deliver radiation therapy using two of the finest high-definition radiation treatment accelerators – Elekta Versa High Definition Linear Accelerators, the same found at MD Anderson and Johns Hopkins.
Elekta Versa High Definition Linear Accelerator
Versa HD™ is a state-of-the-art radiation machine which offers the flexibility to safely and efficiently deliver the full spectrum of radiotherapy techniques, delivering sophisticated therapies such as Volumetric-Modulated Radiation Therapy (VMAT), Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT), and Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS), which provides our patients with personalized and more precise treatment deliveries. In addition, the Versa HD is outfitted with advanced imaging that allows tumor position to be accurately monitored and managed, referred to as Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT).
Vision RT
Vision RT is a contact-free technology that uses 3D cameras and computer vision to ensure radiation therapy is delivered safely to cancer patients, allowing us to offer radiotherapy without the use of tattoos or marks for some diagnoses. This technology provides Surface Guided Radiation Therapy (SGRT), ensuring patients are positioned correctly before and also during treatment. SGRT tracks a patient’s skin surface non-invasively and without radiation, and provides clinicians the confidence that the patient is in the correct position while utilizing less immobilization, increasing patient comfort and safety. SGRT allows for the reduction of heart and lung dose in left-sided breast cancer, and helps to ensure sub-millimeter positioning in stereotactic radiosurgery.
Brachytherapy
Brachytherapy involves placing radioactive sources into a tumor or its surrounding tissue – since it is so close, the dose can be escalated and the number of treatments reduced. These treatments are complex and involve a highly specialized treatment team that creates a treatment based on each patient’s unique anatomy. Ridley-Tree Cancer Center provides permanent prostate seed implants, referred to as Low Dose Rate (LDR) brachytherapy, as an inpatient procedure at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital. Temporary gynecological implants known as High Dose Rate (HDR) brachytherapy are provided as an outpatient procedure at Ridley-Tree Cancer Center.
CT Simulator
CT simulators are used to design every course of radiation therapy to meet the individual needs of each patient. This technology captures, records and analyzes patient anatomy, recognizing the complex differences between healthy and cancerous tissues.
Sentient Technology
Sentient Technology allows patients to fully customize treatment rooms by choosing their own music and imagery. Calming LED lighting, video screens and surround sound allow patients to personalize their therapy experience so it provides a relaxing peaceful setting.