Proton therapy manufacturer Mevion Medical Systems and radiation shielding company NELCO Worldwide have announced a partnership aimed at accelerating the adoption of proton therapy by converting existing linear accelerator vaults for the MEVION S250-FIT Proton Therapy System.

The MEVION S250-FIT system, which can be installed in a linac vault without extensive modifications, utilizes a self-shielded cyclotron and efficient beamline that is designed to make it easier and more cost-effective to implement. By incorporating optimized shielding designs and specialized shielding doors (sliding, swinging, or bi-parting) into the vault conversion process, the two companies hope to add further cost savings and efficiency to the installation process.

Proton therapy, which offers greater precision and fewer side effects than traditional X-ray radiation, is particularly beneficial for treating tumors near critical organs or in pediatric patients. However, its high cost and the complexity of building new centers have limited its accessibility. By converting existing vaults, the partnership aims to lower these barriers.

The FIT system is equipped with HYPERSCAN Pencil Beam Scanning technology for intensity modulated proton therapy, and dual-energy large bore diagnostic CT at treatment position for image-guided radiation therapy and adaptive therapy. It also can be utilized in research for FLASH therapy and facilitates access to emerging technologies such as ARC therapy.

“We are delighted to collaborate with NELCO Worldwide to bring the benefits of proton therapy to a wider patient population,” said Mevion CEO Tina Yu. Rick LeBlanc, CEO of NELCO, added that the partnership will help make proton therapy "a viable option for more hospitals and clinics."

This initiative represents a key step in expanding access to advanced cancer treatment by simplifying the deployment of proton therapy systems.

Both companies are based in Massachusetts. Mevion in Littleton, and NELCO in Boston.

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