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GammaPod: A New Frontier for Breast Cancer Treatment

In a significant advancement for breast cancer care, GammaPod has officially made its entrance into Europe. This innovative technology focuses on Stereotactic Partial Breast Irradiation (S-PBI), a specialized form of radiotherapy that delivers high doses within a single or few fractions, setting it apart from traditional methods that typically require multiple sessions.

Developed by physicist Cedric Yu, a Professor Emeritus at the University of Maryland and founder of Xcision Medical Systems, GammaPod has been introduced by the Italian company Tema Sinergie SpA. Located in Faenza, Tema Sinergie has carved out a reputation in the oncology sector over its 40 years of operation. The first system has been put into use at Santa Maria della Misericordia Hospital in Udine, with more installations anticipated in the near future.

A Paradigm Shift in Treatment

GammaPod heralds a new era in how early-stage breast cancer is managed. This advanced technology is tailored specifically for breast cancer treatment, allowing medical professionals to administer precise high doses of radiation directly at the tumor site. Traditional radiotherapy equipment is designed for a broad range of cancers, thus often exposing healthy tissue to unnecessary radiation. However, GammaPod aims to concentrate the treatment to the tumor only, thereby minimizing the risk of damage to surrounding healthy tissues and reducing side effects for patients.

The single-fraction approach not only streamlines treatment but also enhances the quality of life for patients who would otherwise undergo a lengthy series of radiotherapy sessions. This efficiency ensures that patients can quickly return to their daily lives while receiving effective care.

Clinical Success

Recent clinical studies undertaken at the Udine hospital showcased GammaPod's efficacy, highlighted in the Red Journal, a prominent publication in the field of Radiation Oncology. The study demonstrated that GammaPod not only maintains safety during the pre-operative treatment of breast cancer but also leads to a notable reduction in cell proliferation index (Ki-67)—a critical marker for assessing tumor response to radiotherapy.

Dr. Marco Trovò, the Director of Radiotherapy at Udine Hospital, expressed enthusiasm regarding the observations from the study. He stated, "The results are extraordinary, allowing us to deliver a very high dose of radiation in one session while observing an appreciable biological response through the reduction in Ki-67 levels."

Upcoming Symposium

As GammaPod continues to make strides in breast cancer treatment, it will be prominently featured during the Satellite Symposium titled Reducing the Impact of Breast Cancer, held on May 5, 2025, at the ESTRO 2025 congress in Vienna. Renowned experts, including Cedric Yu and Dr. Trovò, will explore the technology in-depth and share findings from clinical research with their peers. Moderated by esteemed professionals like Prof. Philip Poortmans and Prof. Icro Meattini, this symposium aims to highlight the importance of this treatment in enhancing patient care worldwide.

International Collaboration in Oncology

Tema Sinergie's initiative to introduce GammaPod in Europe emphasizes the crucial role of international partnerships in advancing healthcare solutions. The commitment to bringing innovative technologies like GammaPod to the European market not only benefits local patients but also contributes to the global fight against breast cancer.

As GammaPod sets out to reshape the landscape of breast cancer treatment, it stands as a beacon of hope for many, combining state-of-the-art technology with patient-centered care. It’s anticipated that this revolutionary system could become a cornerstone for managing breast cancer on a global scale, reinforcing the notion that collaboration and innovation are vital in the ongoing battle against cancer.