State-Of-The-Art Cancer-Fighting Tech Coming To Elmhurst Hospital

ELMHURST, QUEENS — A state-of-the-art device for zapping cancer cells will be installed at Elmhurst Hospital next year, officials announced Tuesday.

The Varian TrueBeam linear accelerator uses an external beam radiation device to target and destroy cancerous cells while sparing surrounding healthy tissue.

It is considered the best equipment in the field, according to a news release from the Queens Borough President's Office.

The device will be installed early next year to replace Elmhurst Hospital's existing linear accelerator, which was installed in 2004 and is nearing the end of its useful life, the Queens Borough President's Office said.

Its installation was made possible by a $5.4 million allocation from Acting Queens Borough President Sharon Lee's office.

“Investing in cutting-edge technology and bringing it right here to Elmhurst Hospital is a direct investment into our families, our futures and more birthdays," Lee said in a statement. "Top-of-the-line treatment should and will be available for us right here at home, without having to cross a bridge or go through a tunnel. Queens families are worth it, and so we are bringing precision and speed to give our fight against cancer a stronger chance."

Elmhurst Hospital, which is one of 11 public hospitals citywide, treats more than 1,000 patients a year through its cancer care program.

"Acquiring a new, state-of-the-art LINAC machine will allow us to offer patients the latest and best technology available for treating cancer," NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst CEO Israel Rocha Jr. said. "This critical investment in upgraded equipment will ensure that cancer patients in the Borough of Queens have access to vital, life-saving treatments and the services they need.”