Proton beam treatment developer Optivus Technology has announced the receipt of U.S. Food and Drug Administration 510(k) clearance for its Conforma 3000 system. The San Bernadino, CA-based firm will now be able to use the technology for delivering protons in medical applications.
Optivus claims that photon beams are very specific to their target, in contrast with traditional x-ray treatment. This allows for sparing of normal tissue, reductions of side effects, and higher radiation dose to the tumor, according to Optivus.
Protons also deliver homogenous radiation to irregular 3-D volumes such as those seen in various cancers, brain tumors, and macular degeneration, according to the vendor. Optivus has worked to get FDA clearance for its technology for five years.
By AuntMinnie.com staff writers
August 10, 2000
