Sparks adds new radiation equipment

Sparks Health System has opened the new Sparks Radiation Treatment Center, which is the first and only facility in Arkansas to treat multiple types of cancer using the Varian TrueBeam Linear Accelerator System, according to the hospital.

A hospital statement notes that the system targets tumor cells with unequaled accuracy and speed. The system uses a multitude of technical innovations to dynamically synchronize imaging, patient positioning, motion management, beam shaping and treatment delivery, performing accuracy checks every ten milliseconds throughout an entire treatment.

“Its precision is measured in increments of less than a millimeter,” Radiation Oncologist Bruce Cross, M.D., said in the statement. “We can treat a moving lung tumor as if it were standing still.”

In addition to the TrueBeam technology, Sparks Regional Medical Center has invested in a new Philips Gemini Big Bore PET/CT scanner, which is only the second scanner of its kind in North America. It utilizes Ambient Experience technology to allow patients to choose their lighting, scenery and music, so important diagnostic scans are more comfortable and less frightening.

“We now provide the most accurate radiation treatments possible, faster and more comfortably, using the same equipment as the renowned M.D. Anderson hospital in Texas.” Sparks Health System CEO Melody Trimble said in the statement. “With Dr. Bruce Cross’s expertise, I’m confident we have the best available technology and quality care right here.”