Promoting research and development of the next-generation heavy ion radiotherapy system “Quantum Scalpel” National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology
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Toshiba Energy Systems and Mizuho Toshiba Leasing have concluded a lease agreement with the National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology for the next-generation ultra-compact quantum beam cancer treatment device (quantum scalpel) demonstrator. Started production of a superconducting synchrotron accelerator for a quantum scalpel demonstrator.
Toshiba Energy Systems will manufacture a demonstration unit by the end of fiscal 2026 and install it in the quantum scalpel building (provisional name) currently under construction in Chiba by the National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology. The demonstrator will be the world’s smallest heavy ion radiotherapy system.
The National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology (QST) has been researching heavy ion radiotherapy and treating more than 14,000 patients.
These treatment achievements have been recognized, and the number of heavy ion cancer treatment facilities has expanded both domestically and internationally, and approximately 3,600 patients are being treated annually at seven facilities in Japan. However, that number is only about 0.4% of the number of new cancer patients in Japan per year.
In order to deliver treatment to a large number of patients, there is a need for compact heavy ion radiotherapy equipment capable of advanced treatment. Against this background, the National Institutes for Quantum and Radiological Science and Technology (QST) is promoting research and development of the next-generation heavy ion beam cancer treatment device, Quantum Scalpel.