New treatment for prostate cancer allows greater precision in targeting radiation

SYRACUSE, N.Y.— University Hospital of SUNY Upstate Medical University is first hospital in the region to offer the a new treatment for prostate cancer that allows clinicians to accurately manage the delivery of radiation to prostate cancer tumors. Also referred to as “GPS for the Body,” the Calypso 4D Localization System provides for the delivery of precision‑guided radiation therapy to the prostate with continuous, objective, organ‑motion detection and monitoring.

According to Jeffrey Bogart, M.D., professor and chair of the Department of Radiation Oncology at SUNY Upstate, organ motion, which naturally occurs as a result of normal body physiology—such as the bladder filling—may cause the prostate to move slightly, potentially compromising the precise delivery of radiation during treatment.

“The Calypso system enables physicians to detect the slightest tumor movement in real‑time so accurate radiation therapy can be delivered while reducing the risk of damage to healthy surrounding organs and tissues, which can lead to common side effects such as bladder irritation and changes in bowel function,” Bogart said.

source: SUNY Upstate Medical University