Belgium-based proton therapy solutions provider Ion Beam Applications (IBA) has received a €50m contract from the University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG) to develop the first proton therapy center in Groningen, Netherlands.

IBA

IBA will install its Proteus Plus two-gantry room configuration in the new center, featuring its Pencil Beam Scanning and Cone Beam CT (CBCT) capabilities.

Under the deal, IBA will also be involved in the long-term operation and maintenance of the project.

IBA CEO Olivier Legrain said: "Following a rigorous public tender process, we are delighted that IBA has been selected as the best proton therapy provider to build the first ever proton therapy center in The Netherlands. More than half of the worldwide proton therapy market is equipped by IBA.

"Over 40,000 patients have been treated by IBA systems – more than all major competitive installations combined. Thanks to our unique experience, we are committed to supporting UMCG to provide high-quality cancer treatment to more patients across the region."

Proton therapy is an advanced and targeted cancer radiotherapy treatment, where the protons deposit the majority of their effective energy within a precisely controlled range and directly within the tumor, sparing healthy surrounding tissue.

UMCG Proton Therapy Center Groningen managing director Bert-Jan Souman said: "The professional support and responsiveness that IBA has demonstrated throughout our demanding tender procedure give us confidence in a successful and long lasting collaboration with them."

Currently, IBA’s systems are operating in 18 proton therapy centers, while 16 additional centers are under development.

UMCG is one of the largest hospitals in the Netherlands, which includes a staff of about 12,000 people working in patient care and medical research.


Image: IBA will equip the new center of University Medical Center Groningen with its Proteus Plus two-gantry room configuration. Photo: courtesy of IBA 2015.