KARACHI: Karachi Institute of Radiotherapy and Nuclear Medicine (KIRAN), the largest public-sector cancer facility operated by the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), has inaugurated its second Halcyon Linear Accelerator (LINAC), a state-of-the-art machine designed to enhance precision in radiotherapy for cancer patients. The addition of this machine marks a significant milestone in the hospital’s mission to expand access to modern cancer treatments and improve patient outcomes.
With this new Halcyon LINAC, KIRAN Hospital now operates a total of four linear accelerators, including two Halcyon systems, significantly boosting its capacity to treat cancer patients. The Halcyon system is known for its precision, employing advanced techniques like Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) and Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT) to ensure the most accurate and effective treatment for patients.

KIRAN Hospital, which already serves as a vital institution providing radiotherapy to around 250 patients daily, will now be able to expand its daily treatment capacity to approximately 400 patients. This increase will help reduce waiting times, enabling faster access to life-saving treatment for those in need.
Dr. Muhammad Asghar, the hospital's spokesperson, emphasized that the addition of the second Halcyon LINAC will help cater to the growing demand for cancer treatment and will provide improved services for patients seeking high-quality radiotherapy.
The Halcyon Linear Accelerator is built to deliver highly precise radiation therapy, with advanced image guidance for every treatment session. This system ensures that patients receive targeted treatment while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues, a crucial factor in improving patient outcomes.
In addition to its accuracy, the Halcyon LINAC system is designed with patient comfort in mind. The treatment couch is optimized for easy positioning, and the system operates with quieter motion during treatment, reducing patient anxiety. It also includes a camera and intercom system to enhance communication between patients and therapists, ensuring a smoother treatment experience.
The second Halcyon machine was made possible through the generous support of the KIRAN Patients Welfare Society (KPWS) and the Strategic Plans Division (SPD), both of which have contributed significantly to the hospital’s expansion efforts. The machine will be used to provide free treatment for deserving cancer patients, further demonstrating KIRAN Hospital's commitment to making cancer care accessible to all, regardless of financial means.
The inauguration of this advanced LINAC is part of KIRAN Hospital’s broader strategy to strengthen its position as a leading provider of cancer treatment in Pakistan. By continually expanding its radiotherapy services, the hospital is ensuring that more patients can access the cutting-edge treatments they need.
In the coming months, Kiran Hospital plans to further improve its cancer care infrastructure by introducing additional treatment facilities and technologies. This will not only enhance its capability to treat a higher number of patients but also ensure that the hospital remains at the forefront of the fight against cancer in Pakistan.
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