12th March 2025

The Varian Halcyon™: cutting radiotherapy treatment time in half

Radiotherapy has long been a powerful tool in the fight against cancer, using high-energy radiation to target and destroy cancer cells while protecting healthy tissue. Now, with the latest innovation in radiotherapy, the Varian Halcyon™ system in use at the Mid-Western Radiation Oncology Centre in Limerick, patients can benefit from even faster, safer, and more comfortable treatment.

The Varian Halcyon delivers high-quality cancer treatment in nearly half the time of conventional machines, meaning less time in the treatment room and more time getting back to everyday life.

Key Benefits for Patients

Faster Treatment: Imaging is completed in just 15 seconds, and most treatments take only 10 minutes, cutting treatment time almost in half compared to conventional systems.
Better treatment environment: No loud fans or cold air—just a quieter, temperature-controlled treatment room with relaxing lighting.
Easier for less mobile patients: Halcyon’s treatment couch can be moved to a low position, allowing patients to get on and off more easily.
Less Claustrophobic: when they are in the machine, patients can still see outside
Pinpoint Accuracy: The system delivers a highly targeted radiation dose that matches the shape of the patient’s tumour, helping to protect surrounding healthy tissue.
Patient Safety and comfort: An integrated camera and intercom mean that patients and their care team can see and talk to each other if necessary.

A Therapist’s Perspective

“With Halcyon, our patients have a much more comfortable experience. The treatment is faster, the machine is quieter, and the environment is better. And knowing that we can always see and speak with the patient throughout the process gives them an added sense of security.”

Mid-Western Radiation Oncology Centre

Since 2005, we have been treating and caring for radiotherapy patients in the mid-west. The Mid-Western Radiation Oncology Centre is the only specialist radiotherapy treatment centre in Limerick.

Learn more

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A More Patient-Friendly Experience

Halcyon enables the Mid-Western Radiation Oncology Centre in Limerick to deliver innovative, patient centred care in an environment that’s more patient friendly than ever. Unlike traditional radiotherapy machines, where you may see large rotating parts, Halcyon’s components are enclosed, creating a calmer environment. Patients can even listen to relaxing music during treatment.

With its qualities of speed, safety and precision, the Varian Halcyon™ system is changing the way radiotherapy is delivered—helping patients feel more at ease while receiving world-class care.