Fortis Gurugram Revolutionizes Cancer Care; Launches North India’s First MR Linac Technology

– Second MR Linac Machine in India and First in Haryana –

Chandigarh, 7th September 2024: Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, today unveiled the Elekta Unity MR Linac, a groundbreaking technology that combines Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) with radiation therapy. This innovation represents a significant advancement in cancer treatment and is the first MR Linac Machine in North India, the Second in India, and the First in Haryana. The launch event was attended by distinguished guests, including Chief Guest Christian Kamill, Chargé d’Affaires a.i, Embassy of Sweden; Guest of Honour Dr Virender Yadav, CMO, Gurugram; Dr Ashutosh Raghuvanshi, MD & CEO of Fortis Healthcare; Dr A.K. Anand, Senior Director & Head, Department of Radiation Oncology at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram and his team along with other notable figures. 

The 1.5 Tesla MR Linac combines a high-energy linear accelerator with advanced MRI capabilities. This hybrid technology allows for precise tumour targeting and real-time adjustments based on changes in tumour size and position during treatment. Consequently, it significantly enhances tumour control and reduces side effects. 

Chief Guest Christian Kamill, Chargé d’affaires a.i, Embassy of Sweden, remarked, “It is a great honour to witness this pioneering collaboration between Swedish company Elekta and Fortis Healthcare, India’s foremost healthcare provider. The integration of precision Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) with advanced radiation therapy not only exemplifies the transformative potential of our partnership but also underscores Fortis Gurugram’s unwavering commitment to elevating the standards of healthcare. Swedish companies have long been at the forefront of healthcare innovation, and this initiative is a testament to our shared vision of bridging gaps in advanced medical treatments. I am confident that our continued collaboration will drive even greater success, setting new benchmarks in sustainable healthcare solutions that benefit both nations and beyond.”

Guest of Honour Dr. Virender Yadav, CMO, Gurugram said, “Addressing cancer requires a multifaceted approach due to its complexity and the diverse ways it impacts various populations. The Government of India acknowledges that advancements in technology, skill development and accessibility are crucial for enhancing patient outcomes and the overall quality of care. With cancer being the second leading cause of death in our country, these elements are of utmost importance. The introduction of the MR Linac system marks a significant advancement in precision radiation therapy. This state-of-the-art technology has the potential to set new standards in treatment, improving outcomes and offering hope to countless patients within India.”

Dr. Ashutosh Raghuvanshi, MD & CEO, Fortis Healthcare, said, “India faces a formidable challenge in the fight against cancer. As a leading healthcare provider, Fortis is committed to pioneering new treatments and delivering the highest standard of care for cancer patients. Our focus on precision oncology and investment in cutting-edge technologies like the MR Linac will transform treatment outcomes both within India and for patients from around the world seeking treatment here. This launch underscores our ongoing commitment to innovation and improved patient care. We are confident that embracing such advancements will pave the way for even greater progress in cancer treatment.”

Dr. Anil Kumar Anand, Senior Director & Head, Department of Radiation Oncology at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, added, “Approximately 57% of cancers are located in soft tissue anatomies, which are particularly challenging to visualize with traditional imaging methods. The MR Linac technology addresses these challenges by providing high-resolution MR imaging and real-time adaptation during treatment. This advanced capability allows for precise targeting and adjustment of radiation therapy based on the tumour response, leading to reduced treatment uncertainty. Consequently, the MR Linac offers significant advantages over conventional radiation therapies, including enhanced accuracy, minimized side effects, and improved clinical outcomes. This innovative approach expands treatment options for a wide range of cancers, including those that are difficult to treat with traditional methods.”

The launch of MR Linac at Fortis Memorial Research Institute represents a major advancement in cancer care, offering enhanced precision and personalized treatment options for patients.Fortis Gurugram Revolutionizes Cancer Care; Launches North India’s First MR Linac Technology – Second MR Linac Machine in India and First in Haryana – Chandigarh, 7th September 2024: Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, today unveiled the Elekta Unity MR Linac, a groundbreaking technology that combines Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) with radiation therapy. This innovation represents a significant advancement in cancer treatment and is the first MR Linac Machine in North India, the Second in India, and the First in Haryana. The launch event was attended by distinguished guests, including Chief Guest Christian Kamill, Chargé d’Affaires a.i, Embassy of Sweden; Guest of Honour Dr Virender Yadav, CMO, Gurugram; Dr Ashutosh Raghuvanshi, MD & CEO of Fortis Healthcare; Dr A.K. Anand, Senior Director & Head, Department of Radiation Oncology at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram and his team along with other notable figures.  The 1.5 Tesla MR Linac combines a high-energy linear accelerator with advanced MRI capabilities. This hybrid technology allows for precise tumour targeting and real-time adjustments based on changes in tumour size and position during treatment. Consequently, it significantly enhances tumour control and reduces side effects.  Chief Guest Christian Kamill, Chargé d’affaires a.i, Embassy of Sweden, remarked, “It is a great honour to witness this pioneering collaboration between Swedish company Elekta and Fortis Healthcare, India’s foremost healthcare provider. The integration of precision Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) with advanced radiation therapy not only exemplifies the transformative potential of our partnership but also underscores Fortis Gurugram’s unwavering commitment to elevating the standards of healthcare. Swedish companies have long been at the forefront of healthcare innovation, and this initiative is a testament to our shared vision of bridging gaps in advanced medical treatments. I am confident that our continued collaboration will drive even greater success, setting new benchmarks in sustainable healthcare solutions that benefit both nations and beyond.” Guest of Honour Dr. Virender Yadav, CMO, Gurugram said, “Addressing cancer requires a multifaceted approach due to its complexity and the diverse ways it impacts various populations. The Government of India acknowledges that advancements in technology, skill development and accessibility are crucial for enhancing patient outcomes and the overall quality of care. With cancer being the second leading cause of death in our country, these elements are of utmost importance. The introduction of the MR Linac system marks a significant advancement in precision radiation therapy. This state-of-the-art technology has the potential to set new standards in treatment, improving outcomes and offering hope to countless patients within India.” Dr. Ashutosh Raghuvanshi, MD & CEO, Fortis Healthcare, said, “India faces a formidable challenge in the fight against cancer. As a leading healthcare provider, Fortis is committed to pioneering new treatments and delivering the highest standard of care for cancer patients. Our focus on precision oncology and investment in cutting-edge technologies like the MR Linac will transform treatment outcomes both within India and for patients from around the world seeking treatment here. This launch underscores our ongoing commitment to innovation and improved patient care. We are confident that embracing such advancements will pave the way for even greater progress in cancer treatment.” Dr. Anil Kumar Anand, Senior Director & Head, Department of Radiation Oncology at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, added, “Approximately 57% of cancers are located in soft tissue anatomies, which are particularly challenging to visualize with traditional imaging methods. The MR Linac technology addresses these challenges by providing high-resolution MR imaging and real-time adaptation during treatment. This advanced capability allows for precise targeting and adjustment of radiation therapy based on the tumour response, leading to reduced treatment uncertainty. Consequently, the MR Linac offers significant advantages over conventional radiation therapies, including enhanced accuracy, minimized side effects, and improved clinical outcomes. This innovative approach expands treatment options for a wide range of cancers, including those that are difficult to treat with traditional methods.” The launch of MR Linac at Fortis Memorial Research Institute represents a major advancement in cancer care, offering enhanced precision and personalized treatment options for patients.