ACC & Accuray Launch Robotic & Stereotactic Radiosurgery Center

This initiative ensures participants gain practical and in-depth knowledge and enhance their skills in treating cancer patients with advanced technologies.

Apollo Cancer Centres (ACC), in collaboration with Accuray, introduced the India subcontinent’s first robotic and stereotactic therapy education center. 

Based in Chennai and Bengaluru, the new education center aims to provide advanced training in radiosurgery techniques for radiation oncologists, physicists, radiation therapists, and technologists.

Under this program, training will be provided to participants, provided demonstrations, and hands-on robotic and stereotactic radiosurgery training. 

Further, the program will utilize Accuray’s CyberKnife S7 system to offer practical and in-depth knowledge to participants thereby enhancing their skills in treating cancer patients with advanced technologies.

Speaking on the same, Dr Shankar Vangipuram, senior consultant radiation oncology at Apollo Cancer Centre, Chennai, said, "The launch of the CyberKnife Academia at Apollo Cancer Centre is an exceptional opportunity to enhance skills and knowledge in Robotic & Stereotactic Radiosurgery. We look forward to sharing valuable expertise and insights during the training program, enabling us to serve our patients better and set new global standards for cancer care."

Accuray’s  CyberKnife System

Reportedly, the Cyberknife Robotic Radio Surgery System in India has been utilized to treat over 5,000 patients.

The CyberKnife System is a non-invasive, robotic radiation therapy device designed to treat tumors with high precision and minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissue. 

It employs advanced imaging and computerized robotics to deliver highly focused beams of radiation, allowing for the treatment of complex and hard-to-reach tumors.

Leveraging the advanced system in this program will enable oncologists to develop cancer care through Cyberknife training.

Commenting on the partnership and technological advancements, Suzanne Winter, president & CEO of Accuray, said, "Accuray celebrates the expansion of the CyberKnife S7 System to Apollo Cancer Centres in Chennai and Bangalore, showcasing our enduring collaboration with the hospitals to enhance cancer care in India. Additionally, it enables the delivery of high doses of radiation, typically in 1 to 5 sessions for fast and effective treatments, marking a significant advancement in cancer therapy.”

Founded in 1990, Accuray Inc, headquartered in Sunnyvale, California, is a leading medical device company specializing in personalized treatment solutions for various types of radiation therapy. 

The company's essential products include the CyberKnife robotic radiosurgery system, known for its precise, non-invasive tumor treatment, and the TomoTherapy system, which integrates a CT scanner with a radiation delivery system to treat diverse cancers. 

Furthermore, the company also offers extensive post-contract support, training, and installation services. Its products are sold across the US and distributed in Latin America, Europe, and Asia.

Recent Initiatives Taken by Apollo

Recently, Apollo HealthCo, a subsidiary of Apollo Hospitals Enterprise (AHEL), planned to open three new hospitals in Mumbai and Bengaluru.

As reported by Business Standard, this strategic expansion follows a recent INR 24.75 billion ($300 million) investment from Advent International, a private equity firm.

Additionally, Apollo HealthCo planned to build two 500-bed hospitals in Mumbai, with a total investment of around INR 20 billion. Additionally, a 400-500-bed facility is planned for Bengaluru. 

This initiative is part of Apollo Hospital Enterprise's (AHEL) broader strategy to invest approximately INR 30 billion over the next three years, aiming to add 2,400 beds across various locations.