Chessington resident Colin Dance has been successfully treated for prostate cancer as part of the PACE C trial. The trial compared surgery, conventional radiotherapy and stereotactic radiotherapy for localised prostate cancer with Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT) delivered via CyberKnife technology. Colin received just five SBRT treatment sessions in 2021 and, at a recent follow-up consultation, he was delighted to learn that the treatment had successfully eradicated the disease.
The CyberKnife® System uses advanced technology to track tumours anywhere in the body and deliver highly targeted radiotherapy with exceptional accuracy. Its unique robotic design continually adjusts the radiation beam to compensate for patient or tumour movement, ensuring treatment is directed precisely where it is needed.
A key feature of the system is Synchrony®, a real-time adaptive delivery technology that automatically tracks tumour movement during treatment. This allows radiation to be delivered accurately without the need for uncomfortable restraints or for patients to hold their breath during treatment sessions.
In 2021, more than 250 courses of radiotherapy were delivered to over 200 patients with a range of tumour types, including brain and prostate cancers. The Royal Marsden Hospital is one of the only NHS hospitals in the UK to operate this model of CyberKnife, funded by The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.
Colin, who is also a member of CDRA’s executive committee, said “The CyberKnife is an incredible machine, such amazing technology and I feel really lucky to have had treatment which was over so quickly. I feel brilliant to be told such good news which coincided with my 50th wedding anniversary – it was a double celebration! The Royal Marsden CyberKnife team are my guardian angels. I can’t thank them enough for what they have done for me.”
Colin’s experience demonstrates how advances in cancer treatment technology can improve outcomes while reducing the time patients spend undergoing treatment. It is encouraging to know that local residents can benefit from world-leading medical expertise available so close to home.
175 years of The Royal Marsden
Founded in 1851 by Dr William Marsden, The Royal Marsden Hospital is celebrating 175 years of pioneering care. It holds the historic distinction of being the world’s very first institution dedicated to cancer research and treatment.
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