Fortis Memorial Research Institute in Gurugram has introduced the Elekta Unity MR Linac, a state-of-the-art machine that integrates Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) with radiation therapy. This marks the first installation of the MR Linac in North India and Haryana, and the second in the country. The technology is designed to enhance the precision and effectiveness of cancer treatment by enabling real-time imaging and adjustments during radiation therapy sessions.
The MR Linac machine, with its 1.5 Tesla magnetic resonance capability, is equipped to provide detailed imaging of tumours during radiation therapy. This enables doctors to track tumour size and position in real time, making treatment more accurate and minimising damage to surrounding healthy tissue. As a result, patients may expect fewer side effects and potentially better outcomes.
The launch event was attended by Christian Kamill, Chargé d'Affaires at the Embassy of Sweden; Dr Virender Yadav, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of Gurugram; Dr. Ashutosh Raghuvanshi, Managing Director and CEO of Fortis Healthcare; and Dr Anil Kumar Anand, Senior Director and Head of the Radiation Oncology Department at Fortis Gurugram.
Speaking at the event, Christian Kamill emphasised the significance of collaboration between Fortis Healthcare and Swedish company Elekta, which developed the MR Linac technology. Kamill highlighted the role of Swedish companies in advancing global healthcare solutions and noted that this partnership serves as an example of how cutting-edge technologies can be shared across borders to improve patient outcomes.
Dr Yadav, Gurugram’s CMO, pointed out the urgent need for advanced cancer treatments in India, where cancer is the second leading cause of death. He noted that improving access to sophisticated technology, like the MR Linac, can help healthcare providers deliver more effective care, ultimately improving survival rates and quality of life for cancer patients. Yadav also stressed the importance of skill development and making such advanced treatments widely accessible across the country.
Dr Raghuvanshi, CEO of Fortis Healthcare, described the MR Linac installation as a critical step in addressing India’s growing cancer burden. He stated that by adopting advanced tools like the MR Linac. Fortis is focused on precision oncology, with the goal of enhancing the accuracy and efficacy of cancer treatments through technological innovation.
Dr Anand, head of the radiation oncology department at Fortis, elaborated on the technical capabilities of the MR Linac machine. He explained that roughly 57% of cancers occur in soft tissues, which are difficult to image using traditional methods. The MR Linac’s ability to provide high-resolution MR images during radiation therapy allows for more precise targeting of tumours, which can shift or change in size during treatment. This real-time adaptation reduces treatment uncertainty, making it possible to adjust the radiation dose based on the tumour’s response.
The introduction of this technology at Fortis Memorial Research Institute provides new options for treating cancers that are difficult to manage with conventional radiation therapy. With its enhanced accuracy and reduced side effects, the MR Linac is expected to improve clinical outcomes for a wide range of cancers, including those located in complex soft tissue areas.
