Willis Knighton Cancer Center physicists, led by Yohan Walter, have completed a year of groundbreaking research with four significant publications advancing the field of stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT). This precise form of radiation therapy is the cornerstone of Willis Knighton Cancer Center’s innovative treatments. SRT was the focus of studies addressing cranial stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) and sterotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for spine and lung tumors.

Three of the publications appeared in the prestigious Journal of Applied Clinical Medical Physics (JACMP), an essential resource for clinical medical physics. A fourth was published in Practical Radiation Oncology (PRO), underscoring the team’s international impact.

Key achievements include:

• Improved brain tumor treatments: The study on cranial SRS developed protocols that enhance healthy tissue sparing and significantly reduce treatment time for patients with multiple brain metastases.
• Enhanced spine SBRT techniques: An eight-year review highlighted the efficacy of immobilization tools, setting a global standard for spine tumor treatment safety and precision.
• Long-term machine performance: A five-year evaluation of Willis Knighton Cancer Center’s linear accelerator ensured continued machine accuracy through rigorous quality assurance.
• Advancements in lung SBRT: A study on patient positioning reduced uncertainties in lung tumor treatments, contributing to superior clinical outcomes.

Walter’s work was also presented at the 2024 ASTRO Annual Conference in Washington, D.C., further establishing Willis Knighton Cancer Center as a leader in radiation oncology.

“These publications reflect the dedication of our medical physics team to advancing cancer care and delivering the best outcomes for our patients,” said Terry Wu, PhD, chief physicist.