Linac machineA £1.8 million radiotherapy unit being installed at the Royal Free Hospital will give more patients with cancer access to the latest treatments.

The new linear accelerator, also known as the linac, replaces one of our two current machines coming towards the end of its lifespan. The installation process began last week.

Radiotherapy is a treatment which involves the use of high-energy radiation to shrink or destroy tumours. The new model will allow the radiotherapy to be targeted more effectively so tumours may be controlled more easily. In addition, the new machine will allow staff to deliver cutting edge treatment techniques so more of our patients will have the opportunity to take part in clinical trials.

The radiotherapy service will open longer each day over the duration of this project and we will continue to provide radiotherapy treatments during the installation process.

Katharine Pigott, lead clinical oncologist for the service, said: “This new machine will allow us to deliver the latest treatments and continue to provide world class care to our patients.”

The installation process is expected to finish in August.

ENDS

Notes to editors

Media contacts: mary.mcconnell2@nhs.net

About the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust

The Royal Free began as a pioneering organisation and continues to play a leading role in the care of patients. Our mission is to provide world class expertise and local care. In the 21st century, the Royal Free London continues to lead improvements in healthcare. 

The Royal Free London attracts patients from across the country and beyond to its specialist services in liver, kidney and bone marrow transplantation, haemophilia, renal, HIV, infectious diseases, plastic surgery, immunology, vascular surgery, cardiology, amyloidosis and scleroderma and we are a member of the academic health science partnership UCLPartners.

In July 2014 Barnet Hospital and Chase Farm Hospital became part of the Royal Free London.