AIIMS, Bhubaneswar has enhanced its cancer treatment capabilities by introducing High Energy Linear Accelerator (HELA) machines, inaugurated by Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya. Priced at Rs 20 crore, the advanced HELA machine employs state-of-the-art technology to precisely identify cancer cells and deliver radiation therapy with pinpoint accuracy. This targeted approach ensures that only cancer-affected areas receive radiation, sparing nearby healthy cells from damage.
Equipped with its imaging system, the HELA machine can effectively track malignant tumors in challenging locations such as the brain, lungs, and liver. This revolutionary technology represents a significant improvement over traditional radiation methods, where both cancer and healthy cells were frequently exposed, causing collateral damage to the latter.
Dr Saroj Dasmajumdar, Head of Radiation Oncology at AIIMS Bhubaneswar, highlighted the precision of the HELA machine, emphasizing its ability to control and target radiation specifically to tumors, thus minimizing toxicity. The machine’s efficiency allows for a single-dose radiation treatment, contrasting with the conventional six to seven weeks required in standard cases.
Dr Dilip Parida, AIIMS Bhubaneswar superintendent, stressed the institution’s focus on preventive oncology, emphasizing early detection to minimize the need for extensive radiation therapy. The affordability of treatment is a key aspect, with cancer patients benefiting from the advanced technology at AIIMS Bhubaneswar at a significantly lower cost, Rs 750, compared to the Rs 1.5 lakh to Rs 2 lakh expenses in private hospitals. With two HELA machines in operation, approximately 100 cancer patients receive radiation therapy daily, marking a significant stride in cancer care infrastructure development at AIIMS Bhubaneswar.