New MRI-Linear Accelerator at UNM Cancer Center Enhances Radiation Precision
UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center installs MRI-LINAC, enabling real-time tumor tracking and adaptive radiation therapy. The system has treated 10 patients and improves precision, reducing damage to healthy tissue.
The University of New Mexico Comprehensive Cancer Center has installed an MRI-linear accelerator (MRI-LINAC), becoming the only facility in New Mexico and one of approximately 100 worldwide to offer the technology. The system, installed in April, has already treated 10 patients with prostate, pancreatic, and rectal cancers, and enables real-time tumor tracking and adaptive treatment planning.
According to the center's medical director of Radiation Oncology, the MRI-LINAC allows clinicians to narrow radiation beams by a few millimeters, reducing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. The technology can image the tumor on the day of treatment, allowing plans to be adjusted in real time and potentially eliminating the need for multiple appointments and repeat CT scans. "It allows us to see more clearly and be much more precise," the director stated.
During treatment, the system monitors tumor movement. If the tumor moves outside the targeted area, the radiation beam automatically shuts off, resuming once the tumor returns to the correct position. This capability is especially beneficial for cancers near sensitive organs, such as prostate, pancreas, liver, and kidney tumors. For prostate cancer, where bladder or bowel changes can shift the tumor, the MRI-LINAC avoids the traditional approach of treating a wider margin, which exposes more healthy tissue to radiation.
While MRI-LINAC sessions take slightly longer than conventional radiation appointments, the technology offers increased precision and flexibility. It can be integrated at various points in a patient's treatment plan. For example, one pancreatic cancer patient is receiving chemotherapy and immunotherapy, with MRI-LINAC therapy scheduled between systemic treatments. "The MRI-LINAC is a powerful armamentarium against cancer," the director said. "It will allow us to deliver personalized, precision medicine and provide world-class care for our patients."
The UNM Comprehensive Cancer Center is the state's only National Cancer Institute-designated center, treating approximately 65% of New Mexico's cancer patients. In 2025, the center conducted over 100,000 ambulatory clinic visits and enrolled 1,444 patients in clinical trials.