When it comes to cancer treatment, precision isn’t a luxury — it’s everything. That’s why Image Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT) in Latham has spent decades leading the way in targeted radiation care across the Capital Region. And they continue to raise the bar with their powerful advancement called the Edge.
Introducing the Edge Linear Accelerator
IGRT is home to Varian Medical Systems’ Edge Linear Accelerator — a game-changing piece of technology used at some of the nation’s top cancer centers. The Edge delivers high-dose radiation with submillimeter accuracy, enabling the aggressive treatment of tumors in areas such as the brain, lung, spine, and more — all while protecting surrounding healthy tissue.
It’s the first Edge system in Upstate New York, and it’s right here at Wellness Way in Latham.
What Makes the Edge Different?
This isn’t your typical radiation machine. The Edge is a highly advanced system that integrates real-time imaging, surface guidance, and intelligent motion tracking to ensure that radiation hits exactly where it needs to — and nowhere else.
- Surface Guidance Technology projects hundreds of small QR codes on the patient’s body. Three ultra-precise stereovision cameras monitor these to ensure perfect alignment. If the body shifts during treatment — even by a millimeter — the system pauses automatically until alignment is restored.
- Cone Beam CT imaging enables 3D scans immediately before treatment, ensuring the patient’s position aligns precisely with the treatment plan. Adjustments are made using a 6-degree-of-freedom couch, capable of micro-movements in any direction.
- Treatment is fast and accurate, usually taking less than 15 minutes from start to finish.
And for patients? There’s no need for tattoos, no anxiety about movement, and no unnecessary exposure to surrounding tissues.
A Patient Experience That Feels Empowering, Not Intimidating
Cancer treatment is challenging enough. IGRT has created a space that centers on comfort and control, starting from the moment patients walk in.
- Patients check in with a personalized ID card—no need for a front desk or waiting room stress.
- They’re guided to private dressing rooms, then escorted by therapists to the treatment suite.
- Identity is verified using a photo from their simulation appointment, ensuring maximum safety and precision.
And the treatment room itself? It’s no ordinary space — it’s a bunker encased in 3 to 6 feet of concrete, built to house this advanced equipment. But inside, the environment is tailored to each patient:
- Surround sound music
- Mood lighting in any color combination
- A calm, private, and patient-controlled atmosphere
This is cancer treatment designed to empower, not intimidate.
A History of Innovation — and Compassion
IGRT has consistently been at the forefront of innovation. In 2005, under the leadership of Dr. Arun Puranik, the team was among the first in the world, outside of national beta sites, to offer Image Guided Radiation Therapy. Today, they remain at the forefront of cancer care with the Edge and a full range of treatment options, including:
- Prostate brachytherapy
- Xofigo® injections for castration-resistant prostate cancer
- Prone breast radiation therapy
- And more
Their real edge, however, isn’t just technology — it’s the people. Our care team. Certified Oncology Nurse Navigator Liz Stockwell, BSN, RN, OCN, ONN-CG, is a cornerstone of the team. A former Army National Guard medic with over 15 years of experience, Liz brings deep expertise and unwavering compassion to her role. She supports patients and providers throughout the diagnostic and treatment process, coordinating referrals, guiding testing, and ensuring timely and clear communication. Liz also plays a key role in developing Community Care’s nurse navigation program, which helps streamline care for patients facing a new or potential cancer diagnosis.
World-Class Cancer Care, Close to Home
Cancer patients in the Capital Region no longer have to travel to larger cities to access top-tier technology. With appointments often available within the week, IGRT in Latham offers some of the most precise and advanced radiation therapy available, eliminating waiting times and the need for travel outside the Capital Region.
Our team isn’t just raising the standard. They are setting it. With the Edge, patients can trust they’re getting the best in modern cancer care, guided by the region’s most experienced team. Here at Image Guided Radiation Therapy of Community Care Physicians.