The new Accuray Radixact linear accelerator (LINAC) began treating patients in July 2026. The unit delivers both conventional RT and highly specialized precision RT. The integrated CT imaging enables this technology to pinpoint cancer inside the body and deliver treatment that conforms precisely to the tumour, while minimizing impact on neighbouring healthy tissue. It also improves the delivery of precision RT in parts of the body under constant movement – such as the lungs, liver and pancreas – through advanced tumour‑tracking capabilities.
“This new LINAC is the first of its kind for BC," said Dr. Devin Schellenberg, senior executive medical director, provincial radiation therapy and medical programs, BC Cancer. “It adds to the adaptive radiation units already in use in our centres and demonstrates our continued commitment to integrating the latest technological advances to improve the lives and outcomes for people with cancer in our province."
Pictured: The new Accuray Radixact linear accelerator (LINAC) at BC Cancer - Vancouver.
In 2023, BC Cancer – Kelowna added an Ethos radiation therapy unit, a Canadian first. Since then, additional adaptive radiation units have been added to BC Cancer centres and existing technology has been upgraded.
“With this new LINAC, our teams are building expertise in new techniques and technology," says Tracey Rannie, executive director, BC Cancer – Vancouver. “It expands treatment options for patients across the province and enables our RT teams to further develop the expertise they need to stay on the leading edge of cancer care."
The BC Cancer Foundation contributed $4.4 million to fully fund this linear accelerator as part of its $50‑million Vancouver Technology Transformation. An additional $5.12 million was provided by the Ministry of Infrastructure to support the renovation and outfitting of the space.
The Accuray Radixact supports BC's 10‑Year Cancer Action Plan by expanding access to innovative, evidence‑based RT.
As part of the installation, the RT suite at BC Cancer – Vancouver has been upgraded to create a more comfortable, modern space that enhances safety and efficiency for patients, families and care teams.
New treatment planning software enables staff to easily integrate the features of this new LINAC into patient care plans and, if needed, the software can adapt the plan to continue RT on a different machine, helping to ensure continuity of care for patients.
The purchase of this equipment reflects the BC Cancer Foundation's decades‑long commitment to funding cutting edge RT. It replaces some functionality delivered by the Vero RT system, also funded by the Foundation, that had reached its end of life.
