Toulon: Linac Unity MRI Accelerator – Cutting-Edge Cancer Treatment

by Mark Thompson

French Red Cross Center Pioneers Advanced Cancer Treatment with Elekta’s Unity MRI Linac

The Saint-Louis radiotherapy Center of the French Red Cross has substantially enhanced its cancer treatment capabilities with the acquisition of the Linac Unity MRI accelerator from Elekta, a system lauded for its unrivaled precision. This investment marks a pivotal moment for the center, solidifying its position as a leading innovator in French oncology and promising more effective radiotherapy for patients.

The arrival of this cutting-edge technology was celebrated at the Center’s renovated facilities, alongside Dr. Caroline Cross, president of the French Red Cross. The new system represents a major leap forward in the center’s commitment to providing state-of-the-art care.

Did you know? – The Linac Unity MRI accelerator combines MRI imaging with radiotherapy, allowing doctors to visualize and target tumors with greater accuracy during treatment. This reduces damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

A Vital Regional Hub

“It is indeed an immense pride for the French Red Cross to celebrate the Saint-Louis Radiotherapy Center,” Dr. Cross stated. “This health establishment’s history is deeply intertwined with the department, as it is the only cancer treatment center offering radiotherapy in the Var region, and one of the most recognized in France.” The acquisition of this revolutionary technology places the Saint-Louis Radiotherapy Center among a select group of facilities in France equipped with this advanced capability,positioning it as a key player in oncology innovation.

Located in Toulon, the Saint-Louis Radiotherapy Center, under the direction of Moan Gwensing, has established a reputation for efficient and compassionate cancer care. annually, the center treats over 2,100 patients, providing a comprehensive environment that combines medical expertise, advanced technologies, and personalized support. The center actively collaborates with both public hospitals and private clinics to ensure seamless and high-quality patient care.

Pro tip – Adaptive radiotherapy, enabled by the Unity system, allows treatment plans to be adjusted in real-time based on changes in the tumor’s size, shape, or location during the course of therapy.

Precision Targeting with Real-Time Imaging

This groundbreaking technology uniquely integrates high-precision MRI imaging in real-time with adaptive radiotherapy. This allows clinicians to target tumors with extraordinary accuracy while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. The Unity system is particularly effective in treating complex cancers, including those affecting the pancreas, liver, prostate, and lung, offering patients more personalized and better-tolerated treatment plans.

Two Decades of Dedicated Service

The Saint-Louis Radiotherapy Center of the French Red Cross recently celebrated its 20th anniversary on December 11, 2025. Founded at the initiative of Simone Long, then president of the Var Red Cross committee, the center has been located at 150 rue Nicolas Appert since 2004. Since its inception, the center has consistently integrated best medical practices and ensured equitable access to radiotherapy treatments. Over the past two decades, it has continually invested in new equipment and cultivated a multidisciplinary team renowned for its professionalism and dedication to patient well-being.

Reader question – How might this new technology impact the length or frequency of radiotherapy sessions for patients? Share your thoughts!

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