Yongin Severance Hospital in Korea to Review Introduction of Heavy Ion Therapy System

Yonsei University Yongin Severance Hospital is currently reviewing the introduction of a heavy ion therapy system to further strengthen its advanced cancer treatment capabilities.

Heavy ion therapy is an advanced radiation therapy technique that typically delivers high-energy precisely to cancer cells by accelerating heavy ions such as carbon ions. This technology leverages the Bragg peak characteristics to concentrate radiation energy release at the tumor site, thereby minimizing exposure to surrounding normal tissues.

According to relevant materials, heavy ion therapy is considered to offer new treatment options for certain refractory cancers with limited response to conventional radiotherapy, as well as tumors with high radioresistance. Yongin Severance Hospital hopes to leverage this technology to further enhance its multidisciplinary cancer treatment system that has already integrated diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy.

The hospital plans to proceed in phases covering the construction of related facilities and equipment, business plan development, recruitment of professional personnel, and the establishment of the treatment system. The materials also mention that the hospital will review specific plans for introducing proton therapy-related facilities and equipment in the future.

If the project proceeds smoothly, it is expected to improve access to advanced radiation therapy for severely ill cancer patients in the southern metropolitan area of Korea, and to promote local clinical application and research capacity building in the field of heavy ion therapy. Meanwhile, heavy ion therapy is not suitable for all cancer patients, and the adoption of this treatment modality still requires comprehensive evaluation of cancer type, tumor location, stage, and the patient's overall health status.