'Satnav' device 'could find cancer tumours in body in just one session'

London, Feb 7 (ANI): A 'satnav' like radiotherapy device promises to help doctors treat patients with tumours almost anywhere in the body in a single session.

The Novalis Tx machine uses a targeting system to destroy cancerous cells and helps to protect surrounding healthy tissue. The devices will go into service at two other specialist NHS cancer centres in Edinburgh and Manchester.

"Unlike some other highly specialised radiation treatment machines, the Novalis Tx can treat many different types of cancer all over the body, allowing us to treat more cancer patients with a single device," the Scotsman quoted Dr Brian Haylock, consultant oncologist and clinical director for radiotherapy at Clatterbridge, as saying.

"This coupled with the speed with which we can treat patients - in some cases in as little as 15 minutes in just one session - means the equipment will be available for the benefit of more patients here in the UK," he added.

Sue Farrington-Smith, director of the charity Brain Tumour Research, said, "We are delighted that advanced brain tumour treatments like the Novalis Tx are now available to cancer patients on the NHS.

"The work of Clatterbridge and The Walton Centre Trusts in Liverpool will undoubtedly provide the best cancer care for their patients." (ANI)