First CyberKnife S7 Treatments Begin in Melbourne Through 5D Clinics and Icon Group Partnership
Accuray Incorporated has announced that 5D Clinics, in partnership with Icon Group, has begun treating cancer patients in Melbourne, Australia, using the CyberKnife S7™ System—a major milestone in expanding access to advanced robotic radiation therapy across the country.
This marks the first center launched under the joint venture between 5D Clinics and Icon Group, with a long-term goal of establishing CyberKnife System centers across Australia, beginning with the East Coast. The aim is to make stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) more accessible to patients without requiring travel far from home.
“We couldn’t be prouder to announce the first CyberKnife System patient treatments resulting from our partnership,” said Suzanne Winter, president and CEO of Accuray. “The CyberKnife System fills an unmet need in Australia to improve community access to this powerful technology that offers both personalized and precise cancer care treatments.”
Australia is facing a sharp rise in cancer diagnoses, with projections estimating an increase from 212,332 new cases in 2022 to 318,285 by 2045. The demand for advanced, efficient treatment options like the CyberKnife S7™ is only expected to grow.
One of the first patients treated at the new Melbourne site was David, a 55-year-old diagnosed with prostate cancer.
“Choosing the CyberKnife System gave me such relief knowing I didn’t have to face surgery or long hospital stays,” David said. “It’s allowed me to keep working and get on with life. The results and support from my specialist have been incredibly reassuring.”
David also praised Dr. Paul Conway, his treating physician, for offering direct, personalized support throughout his treatment journey. “That support has been invaluable for me,” he added.
Previously, 5D Clinics in Perth was the only private facility in Australia offering the CyberKnife System. Now, through its partnership with Icon Group, Australia’s largest private cancer care provider, the technology is being introduced to the broader population. The CyberKnife S7 System enables faster, more precise treatments than previous models, allowing for shorter daily sessions and higher patient throughput.
“The introduction of the CyberKnife System to Melbourne means patients no longer need to travel interstate to access this advanced level of care,” said Bruno Bosco, General Manager for 5D Clinics Australia. “It provides more choice and the possibility of better patient outcomes and improved quality of life.”
The CyberKnife S7 System uses advanced robotics, artificial intelligence, and motion tracking to deliver high-dose radiation with sub-millimeter precision anywhere in the body. Treatments typically take just 1 to 5 outpatient sessions, compared to traditional radiation therapy that may require up to 40 sessions. This is especially valuable for patients who cannot travel for extended care.
The project has been supported by alphaXRT, the exclusive distributor and training partner for Accuray’s CyberKnife and TomoTherapy® platforms in Australasia. alphaXRT coordinated the Melbourne installation and will continue to provide technical support and training.
The new center represents a pivotal step in redefining cancer care access in Australia, with additional CyberKnife System installations planned along the East Coast to follow.