Groundbreaking Proton Therapy Coming to the Carolinas: SERO and Atrium Health Collaborate on Revolutionary Cancer Treatment

We are thrilled to announce a major advancement in cancer care for patients across North and South Carolina. Southeast Radiation Oncology (SERO), in collaboration with Atrium Health, is bringing the first proton therapy treatment to the region. This cutting-edge technology promises to revolutionize cancer treatment, offering new hope to patients with complex cases.

---

A Game-Changer in Cancer Treatment

Proton therapy is a highly precise form of radiation treatment that targets cancerous tumors while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. This advanced technology allows for more effective treatment with potentially fewer side effects, particularly for tumors in sensitive areas of the body.

---

The Atrium Health Levine Cancer Proton and Advanced Radiation Center

Located off Morehead Street in Charlotte, the new Atrium Health Levine Cancer Proton and Advanced Radiation Center houses a state-of-the-art 110-ton proton beam. This massive piece of equipment, so large it had to be installed through the roof, moves on a three-story axis to deliver pinpoint radiation with unprecedented accuracy.

---

Phased Implementation

The center is set to begin initial treatments in October 2024, pending final commissioning of the machine. To ensure the highest quality of care, there will be a 3-4 month ramp-up period before reaching full capacity. Even at full capacity, availability will be limited due to the single machine serving both pediatric and adult patients.

During the initial phase, the center will focus on less complex proton treatment plans, including:

• Brain tumors (non-craniospinal)
• Pelvic tumors
• Retroperitoneal sarcoma
• Non-mediastinal/thoracic lymphoma
• Spine/BOS chordoma or chondrosarcoma
• Specific types of oropharynx cancer
• Pediatric patients not requiring anesthesia

Starting in early December 2024, the center will expand its capabilities to include more complex cases, such as:

• Tumors affected by breathing motion (liver, esophagus, lung)
• Cases benefiting from breath-hold techniques
• Pediatric patients requiring anesthesia
• Craniospinal irradiation
• Additional head and neck cancers
• Re-irradiation after previous radiotherapy

---

Referring Patients

Healthcare providers interested in referring patients for proton therapy can send referrals via fax to 980-442-3401, attention to Proton Therapy. For questions, contact the proton coordinator at protontherapy@atriumhealth.org or call 980-442-3400.

We at SERO are proud to be part of bringing this groundbreaking technology to our community. The Atrium Health Levine Cancer Proton and Advanced Radiation Center represents a significant step forward in our mission to provide the highest quality cancer care to patients across the Carolinas.

Stay tuned for more updates as we approach the official opening of this revolutionary treatment center.