BLUEFIELD, WV (LOOTPRESS) – WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital (PCH) introduced its latest advancement in cancer treatment – the $3.5 million Halcyon linear accelerator, which is a cutting-edge radiation therapy system designed to provide faster, more precise, and more comfortable treatment for cancer patients.
“As we continue progressing toward the development of a comprehensive cancer center, the introduction of this advanced technology marks an important step in expanding high-quality cancer care for our region,” said PCH President and CEO Karen Bowling. “With the Halcyon, we are bringing innovative treatment options closer to home for our patients.”
The Halcyon linear accelerator, the first in West Virgnia, represents the latest evolution in radiation therapy. The system’s advanced capabilities include:
- Increased Precision: Halcyon delivers highly targeted treatments ensuring the tumor receives the correct dosage while sparing surrounding healthy tissue.
- Faster Treatment Time: Therapy sessions can be up to 50% faster than those on older machines, reducing time on the treatment table and enhancing overall comfort.
- Expanded Treatment Capabilities: Halcyon can treat a wide range of cancers, from small, delicate tumors to larger, complex cases. It also opens the door for participation in clinical trials and advanced therapies, aligning PCH with leading cancer centers nationwide.
- Improved Patient Experience: The system features a more spacious design and quieter operation, reducing stress and making treatments more tolerable for patients.
“This technology is a game-changer for our community,” said Dr. Joseph Baisden, radiation oncologist at PCH. “Not only does it allow us to treat tumors with extreme accuracy, but it also enhances patient outcomes by reducing toxicity and side effects. The ability to deliver high-quality radiation therapy in a shorter time frame means patients can complete their treatment with less disruption to their daily lives,”
For now, the Halcyon linear accelerator will remain housed at the Bluefield campus. Once construction is completed on PCH’s new comprehensive cancer center, the machine will be relocated to its permanent home, further expanding the range of oncology services available in southern West Virginia and southwest Virginia.
The acquisition of the Halcyon accelerator reinforces WVU Medicine PCH’s commitment to providing world-class cancer care locally, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for treatment.
