First-of-its-kind machine targets tumors with precision

Colorado State University can now deliver radiation to tumors in animals with unmatched precision, using an instrument that is the first of its kind in any animal clinic or veterinary teaching college in the world. The machine, the Varian Trilogy Linear Accelerator, is only available for human treatment in a few limited locations in the United States.

CSU's veterinary radiation oncology unit unveiled the accelerator, which delivers precision radiation to tumors unequaled by any other machine available. The ability to deliver radiation with such exactness drastically reduces the impact of radiation on healthy cells surrounding a tumor.

Answer to cancer

The new instrument will enable the Veterinary Teaching Hospital to provide the revolutionary treatment to animals suffering from cancer. "The accelerator enhances our experts' ability to conduct research on fighting cancer that will benefit humans and animals," said Dr. Lance Perryman, dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences.

The linear accelerator can target tumors with radiation measured to the depth, shape, and size of a tumor without damaging healthy cells. A radiation dose can be fitted to the abnormal shape of a tumor and delivered at a specific depth to prevent hitting surrounding structures such as the spinal cord, kidney, or heart.

Technology's precision

The machine has an on-board CT scanner and digital X-ray machine, allowing doctors to monitor the changing shape and depth of a tumor with each treatment.

The accelerator also can be programmed to deliver radiation at specific stages of the breathing cycle to ensure precision delivery if the tumor moves slightly as the patient breathes.