Hong Kong’s First Proton Therapy Centre
Nestled within the serene surroundings of A Kung Ngam in Shau Kei Wan,
HKSH Proton Therapy Centre (the Centre) is equipped with Hong Kong’s first
proton therapy system, a unique and cutting-edge radiotherapy facility,
marking a new milestone in the city’s cancer treatment.
The Centre covers an area of approximately 31,000 square feet across three
primary floors, which include:
8th Floor: This floor houses the reception and registration area, doctor's
consultation rooms, a conference room, as well as waiting, changing and rest
areas for patients.
Basement Level 2 (B2): On this level, you will find the MRI simulator room,
synchrotron machine rooms, beam transfer system (BTS) components, and
associated machine rooms required for the operations of the proton
therapy system.
Basement Level 3 (B3): This floor has two proton therapy treatment rooms
furnished with a pencil-beam delivery system, an MRI simulator room, a patient
set-up room, and associated machine rooms for the operations of the proton
therapy system.
The key components of the proton therapy system include two 190-degree
half-rotating proton therapy gantries, a 4-magnet-ring synchrotron-based
accelerator with a diameter of approximately four metres, and an advanced
beam transport system in a vertically stacked formation.
What is Proton Therapy?
Proton therapy, a form of particle beam therapy, is the most advanced
radiotherapy modality used in tumour treatment. In conventional X-ray(photon)-
based radiotherapy, the radiation penetrates the target site, causing damage to
the normal tissue behind the tumour. However, proton therapy harnesses the
physical properties of the “Bragg Peak”. It involves meticulous computation and
regulation of the precise depth and intensity of the proton beam, enabling it
to precisely aim at the tumour and delivering a concentrated burst of
energy at the end of its range. This focused release of energy effectively
targets and eliminates cancer cells, after which the radiation halts and
dissipates instantaneously.
Proton therapy offers the advantage of minimising the radiation exposure to
the healthy tissues surrounding the tumour, therefore lowering the risk of
complications and side effects associated with conventional radiotherapy
treatment, while optimising the radiation dose to kill cancer cells.
Proton therapy is suitable for various cancer types, including brain cancer, head
and neck cancer, lung cancer, liver cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, and
more. It is particularly beneficial for paediatric cancer patients who are still in
the developmental stage.
Why Choose Proton Therapy?
- Enhanced precision: The unique physical attribute of proton therapy
enables the proton beam to precisely target tumour cells, minimising
damage to surrounding healthy tissues and organs.
- Reduced side effects: Due to its targeted approach, proton therapy
reduces the risk of short-term and long-term side effects compared to
conventional radiation therapy.
- Paediatric-friendly: Proton therapy is particularly well-suited for treating
paediatric cancers, as it spares developing tissues and reduces the risk of
inducing secondary cancers later in life.
- Sustained quality of life: Patients are often able to maintain quality of life
during and after proton therapy, with relatively minimal disruption to daily
activities.
Proton Therapy vs Conventional Radiotherapy
Types of Cancer Treated
Proton therapy allows tumours to be treated with extreme accuracy, delivering
cancer-killing energy to the target volume with less damage to surrounding
healthy tissues and a lower risk of side effects. Proton therapy is particularly
suitable for the following types of cancer:
Patient Journey
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the treatment like for proton therapy?
Proton therapy is a painless and non-invasive treatment method that aims to
reduce side effects and complications by minimising radiation dose to
healthy tissues. The proton therapy team prioritises your comfort during
treatment sessions, utilising support cushions and positioning tools to
ensure proper alignment.
Is proton therapy safer and more effective than traditional radiation therapy?
The primary concern with radiation treatment is the potential harm to
healthy tissues. While traditional radiation therapy has similar effects, the
precision of proton therapy allows for a lower dose to healthy tissues,
making it better suited for treating specific tumour types such as brain and
breast tumours.
How many proton therapy sessions will I need?
Our medical team will develop a personalised treatment plan for you. Most
patients undergo five treatment sessions per week over a period of several
weeks. As the side effects are minimal, patients can usually maintain their
regular lifestyle and routines throughout the treatment course.
Can proton therapy be combined with other treatment options?
Proton therapy can be used in conjunction with other cancer treatment
modalities, such as surgery, chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
Is proton therapy a suitable treatment option for me?
A consultation with a radiation oncologist is necessary to evaluate your
specific case and determine if proton therapy is a suitable and beneficial
treatment option for you. HKSH’s comprehensive and holistic cancer
management also encompasses various areas, such as radiotherapy,
chemotherapy, targeted therapy, hormone therapy, immunotherapy, cellular
therapy, nuclear medicine therapy, and more.
