The new linear accelerator "TrueBeam", the most modern device of its kind in the world, was officially launched today at the Institute of Oncology of the Clinical Center of Montenegro (KCCG), marking a significant step forward for the Montenegrin healthcare system in the treatment of malignant diseases, the Ministry of Health announced.
As stated in the statement, the value of this device, which was purchased through the Capital Projects Administration, is around 4 million euros, and its installation and training of professional staff were completed within the scheduled deadline.
The Minister of Health, Vojislav Šimun, said that this project symbolizes the country's determined and systemic fight against cancer.
"The acquisition of this linear accelerator enables the application of the most modern form of transcutaneous radiation therapy – highly precise, fast and efficient, with minimal damage to healthy tissue. Thanks to 4D technology, we can now treat tumors in organs that move during breathing, such as the lungs, breasts, liver and adrenal glands, with great precision – which was not possible before. Oncological diseases are, unfortunately, the leading cause of mortality in our country. Every effort we make in the fight against malignant diseases is not just an investment in healthcare – it is an investment in the life, hope and dignity of every patient. That is precisely why the Ministry of Health has recognized oncology as one of the key strategic areas, directing resources towards modern diagnostics, innovative therapies, access to treatment and capacity building within Montenegro," said Minister Šimun.
The TrueBeam device, which was put into operation today, according to Minister Šimun, is equipped with the latest generation of oncology information systems and software for computer-based therapy planning.
Šimun added that, thanks to these upgrades, faster treatment speed, more precise dosimetry, and individualized planning have been enabled - which means shorter therapy duration and greater efficiency in tumor treatment for patients.
"This project is a continuation of the broader modernization process of the Institute of Oncology, which includes the 4D CT simulator put into operation last year, the adaptation of the day hospital, additional capacities for systemic therapy and the introduction of innovative therapies - including immunotherapy and targeted drugs for breast, lung, colon and other cancers. Thanks to the systemic approach, the list of drugs has been expanded with over 80 new positions, and the problem of shortage of oncology drugs has been significantly resolved. With the establishment of the Central Chamber for the Preparation of Therapy, patients are provided with faster and safer therapy closer to their place of residence. Today, with three linear accelerators, modern 4D CT, new therapeutic protocols and innovative drugs available in Montenegro, we can say that our patients have a real chance to receive timely, quality treatment and with the support of a system that does not abandon them," emphasized Šimun.
He thanked the team of the Institute of Oncology – doctors, physicists, technicians and nurses – because, as he said, thanks to their expertise and dedication, advanced technology becomes a concrete chance for recovery and life, even in the most difficult stages of the disease.
He emphasized that the Ministry of Health will continue to invest in knowledge, equipment and people - because, in his words, "the health of citizens is not an expense, but the most important investment of a state."
The Director of KCCG, Aleksandar Radović, pointed out that today a new chapter in healthcare has been opened:
"With the launch of this device, our patients will no longer have to seek treatment outside the borders of Montenegro. We have educated more than 20 experts, conducted more than 40 educational sessions, and now we can provide therapy in our own system with full capacity."
The Director of the Institute of Oncology, Gordana Bašović, emphasized that this is a technology that enables faster, more precise and safer treatment of the most complex tumor localizations - including the brain, thorax and abdomen - as well as the treatment of multiple metastases simultaneously in a small number of sessions, without additional damage to healthy tissue.
"For our patients, this is not just new equipment – it is a new chance. A chance for better outcomes, fewer side effects, shorter therapy and a better quality of life. Thanks to this breakthrough, Montenegro stands shoulder to shoulder with modern European healthcare systems," concluded Bašović.
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