TGH-Onco Life Cancer Centre uses AI-based synchrony system for treating lung, prostate cancer

Anantrao Raikar (70) from Talegaon, who was present at the conference, said he had sought help from multiple experts after his daily activities were hindered by breathlessness. Initially, a CT scan and later whole-body PET scan showed a left-sided lung mass and later a thoracoscopic biopsy from a lung lesion confirmed the diagnosis of lung carcinoma. While he went through the drill of palliative chemotherapy followed by targeted therapy, the response assessment PET scan showed a lymph node suggestive of disease progression.

In another case, Nanasao Ingawale (62) from Solapur had lower urinary tract symptoms for a month and was diagnosed with prostate cancer.

“Both patients were found to be suitable for a synchrony-based approach for successful outcomes,” Dr Abhishek Purkayastha, consultant, department of tomotherapy and radiation oncology, TGH Onco-Life Cancer Centre, said.

The Ultra Central Lung Disease (UCLD) was treated with Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT) by tomotherapy helical technique with AI-based synchrony system to a dose of 60 Gy in eight fractions on alternate days.

“The target was lying in close proximity to the heart, vessels, major airway structures and lung parenchyma but with synchrony, I was able to achieve the optimal target dose distribution, sparing the highly critical organs at risk. He was treated in free normal breathing without the need of breath holding, respiratory gating or abdominal compression ensuring maximum comfort. Patient tolerated treatment very well without experiencing any adverse effects,” said Dr Purkayastha.

This tracking system continuously adjusts the radiation beam’s trajectory, adapting to any subtle changes in the tumour’s location caused by patient movement. Overall, it took time of one-and-half month to complete the sessions and now the patient can walk up to 5km without any breathing issues.

In Ingawale’s case, the technique of synchrony-based IGRT that combines real-time imaging with precise radiation delivery was useful in synchronizing the movement of the prostate, which can shift due to natural processes such as breathing or bowel movements, with the radiation beam. “The goal is to maintain accurate targeting throughout the treatment session, thereby minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. This approach is safe, and precise and guarantees quick recovery with successful outcomes,” Dr Jyoti Mehta, MD radiation and clinical oncologist, TGH Onco-Life Cancer Centre, said.

For the first time, the centre used AI-based synchrony system, which revolutionized the way cancer is treated. This advanced technology allows for precise and customized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs, doctors said.