Linear accelerator machine provides expert care close to home

The treatment of cancer is a multi-disciplinary effort involving specialists from many areas of medical expertise. The three main treatment approaches include surgical oncology, medical oncology (chemotherapy and immunotherapy) and radiation oncology. These highly skilled specialists and the latest treatments are all available to patients at Bozeman Health Cancer Center.

Over half of all cancer patients receive radiation treatments at some point during their cancer care journey, by way of a technologically advanced medical device called a linear accelerator (LINAC). A LINAC is a machine that generates high energy X-rays and electrons for the purpose of treating cancer.

Bozeman Health has been offering radiation oncology treatment for several decades and is pleased to be part of the next revolution in patient care. Many advances in technology at Bozeman Health Cancer Center have been made possible by generous philanthropic support through Bozeman Health Foundation, whose shared mission with Bozeman Health is to improve health and quality of life for Southwest Montana.

A second LINAC, the Varian Edge, has recently been installed in Bozeman Health Cancer Center’s Radiation Oncology department to complement the existing high-precision LINAC that was installed in 2014. The Edge offers expanded capability and precision that is the latest state-of-the art in radiation cancer care. It will allow for a less invasive treatment of lesions anywhere on the body, including treating small brain lesions without surgery. Advances in imaging, precision, tumor tracking and speed of treatment delivery the LINAC offers is one of the many ways Bozeman Health Cancer Center provides the highest quality care available, right here close to home.