Advanced medical systems realizing smooth operation of heavy-ion radiotherapy

In order to treat more cancer patients using heavy-ion radiotherapy systems, Toshiba has developed the following advanced medical systems: (1) a patient handling system consisting of a selectively compliant articulated robot arm (SCARA) type treatment table, a top plate, and a cart, which makes it possible to increase the number of treatments per treatment room by accurately and rapidly determining the beam-irradiation position; and (2) a treatment information system that collects the treatment information in conjunction with the medical information systems used at each step from reception to irradiation, facilitating sharing of the information among the staff involved in the treatment and ensuring smooth operation of the heavy-ion radiotherapy system. (author)