Researchers at Corewell Health William Beaumont University Hospital have successfully used a new proton therapy technique called step-and-shoot proton arc therapy to treat a patient with head-and-neck cancer. This highly accurate treatment has shown promising results, with the patient experiencing minimal side effects and no radiation toxicity. The technique is an interim solution towards a more advanced method called dynamic proton arc therapy, which is still in development.
Forecast for 6 months: Expect more clinical trials and research studies to be conducted on the step-and-shoot proton arc therapy technique, with a focus on refining its accuracy and reducing treatment times.
Forecast for 1 year: Dynamic proton arc therapy, the more advanced technique, is expected to receive regulatory approval and begin clinical trials, paving the way for its widespread adoption in cancer treatment.
Forecast for 5 years: Proton arc therapy is expected to become a standard treatment option for head-and-neck cancer, with many hospitals and cancer centers adopting the technology. Research will continue to focus on improving the technique’s accuracy and reducing side effects.
Forecast for 10 years: Proton arc therapy is expected to be used to treat a wide range of cancers, including those that are currently difficult to treat with traditional radiation therapy. The technology will continue to evolve, with advancements in machine learning and artificial intelligence enabling more precise and personalized treatment plans.
