New state-of-the-art radiation oncology systems offer advanced cancer care at UMMC
Patrick McCarthy is fighting squamous cell carcinoma with the help of new advanced radiotherapy systems at the University of Mississippi Medical Center’s radiation oncology center, part of the UMMC Cancer Center and Research Institute.
The two new Varian systems, Edge and Ethos, offer patients faster, more precise radiotherapy. The Medical Center has the only Ethos system in Mississippi. The state-of-the-art system uses artificial intelligence for adaptive radiation therapy, which allows for adjustments in real time.
After a 13-day hospital stay, McCarthy is undergoing radiation therapy as well as chemotherapy for squamous cell carcinoma, the most common type of tonsil cancer. He is among the first patients in Mississippi to receive radiotherapy with the Ethos system.
McCarthy came to UMMC after coughing up blood.
“My wife was in Memphis for our oldest daughter’s baby shower,” he said. “When she got home, she drove me to emergency care. She asked where I wanted to go, and I said, ‘Take me to the university.’ It’s been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. The care I’ve had has been incredible.”
The Edge model at UMMC, accurate to a fraction of a millimeter, is the most advanced stereotactic radiosurgery system available in Mississippi when combined with its onboard surface-guided imaging system.
Stereotactic radiosurgery is a non-invasive, highly precise radiotherapy that targets tumors using 3D imaging and high-dose radiation.
The Medical Center has the only Ethos system in Mississippi. The state-of-the-art system uses artificial intelligence for adaptive radiation therapy, which allows for adjustments in real time.
“If a tumor shrinks or moves, adjustments are made to reduce radiation exposure for healthy tissue and minimize side effects,” said Dr. Neil Duggar, associate professor of radiation oncology.
On-table imaging can be done in six seconds, and radiation treatments on the new systems are shorter, Duggar said.
Dr. Rojymon Jacob, chair of the Department of Radiation Oncology, said those advances add up to treatments that better target tumors.
“When you combine real‑time imaging, adaptive planning and sub‑millimeter accuracy, you give patients safer treatments, more options, and a better chance at the outcomes they deserve. This is the level of cancer care Mississippians should have access to, and we’re proud to deliver it.”
The advancements, in a newly renovated space at University Hospital, come as a new five-story cancer center is on the drawing board. Radiation Oncology clinic appointments are now at CCRI’s location in the UMMC Medical Pavilion.
CCRI isn’t waiting for the new cancer center to be built to offer world-class care, Duggar said. “We have the most advanced radiotherapy treatment systems in the state now. We didn’t want to wait. The time to elevate the level of care is now.”
“Greater accuracy reduces exposure to healthy tissue and allows for higher doses of radiation in shorter periods and can even mean fewer treatments for some patients,” he said. “This is leading to better outcomes and new treatment options.”
Both systems can treat tumors anywhere on the body.
Dr. Rod Rocconi, Ergon Chair for Cancer Research and CCRI director, said the new radiotherapy treatment options reflect the level of care at CCRI.
“Mississippians deserve the most advanced cancer care available right here at home,” he said. “These advancements are already changing what’s possible for patients and families across our state.”
The renovated location at University Hospital will be home to radiation oncology treatment until the opening of the new center. Funded in part by It’s About Time: The Campaign for the UMMC Cancer Center and Research Institute, a $125 million philanthropic drive, the building will combine advanced, evidence-based care and research.