Leeds Cancer Centre is bringing a new era of hope to cancer patients with the introduction of
MRI-only radiotherapy, an innovative technique that offers more precise treatment that can
potentially reduce treatment side effects.
This innovation, which eliminates the need for traditional CT scans, means patients can look
forward to improved outcomes, shorter treatment times and a more comfortable experience.
As the second centre in the UK to offer this cutting-edge technique, Leeds is at the forefront
of advancing cancer care. For patients, this means tumours can be targeted more accurately
than ever before, minimising harm to healthy tissue and reducing the long-term impacts of
treatment. Additionally, by streamlining the radiotherapy process, Leeds Cancer Centre is
freeing up resources to help even more people receive timely care.
Dr Bashar Al-Qaisieh, Lead for Research & Innovation and Radiotherapy Imaging at Leeds
Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust: “MRI-only radiotherapy, is another improvement to the
service we provide our patients. This technology represents the future of radiotherapy, and we
are proud to lead the way.”
Professor Ann Henry, Professor of Clinical Oncology and Consultant Clinical Oncologist at
Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust: “Magnetic Resonance (MR) planning for prostate
cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy in Leeds offers several significant benefits. This
advanced imaging technique provides highly detailed, 3D images of the prostate and
surrounding tissues, allowing doctors to precisely target the tumour while minimising damage
to healthy organs, such as the bladder and rectum. By improving accuracy, MR planning
contributes to more effective, safer treatment, ultimately improving the overall quality of life
for patients”.
Transforming lives, one treatment at a time
The journey toward this milestone has been over a decade in the making, driven by a
dedicated team of researchers and clinicians committed to enhancing cancer care. In 2024,
the centre began offering MRI-only radiotherapy for prostate cancer, marking the first step in
what promises to be a broad expansion. Plans are already underway to extend this innovative
technique to patients with brain, head and neck, and liver cancers in 2025—potentially
making Leeds the first hospital globally to apply this technique across such a wide range of
cancers.
A decade of dedication
This achievement reflects the centre’s long-standing focus on research and innovation,
supported by partnerships with leading organisations and investments in state-of-the-art
technology. With a dedicated MRI scanner funded by Leeds Hospitals Charity and
collaborations with industry leaders, the centre has turned years of research into real-world
benefits for patients.
As Leeds Cancer Centre looks to the future, its pioneering work is setting new standards in
cancer care, positioning the UK as a leader in global oncology innovation. Through this
technique, Leeds is demonstrating the power of science and technology in healthcare.
Image shows The Radiotherapy Team.
