Leo Cancer Care Launches Grace™, Innovative Upright Therapy System

Leo Cancer Care has unveiled its groundbreaking upright photon therapy system, Grace™, during the annual ASTRO 2025 conference in Middleton, Wisconsin. Named after pioneering computer scientist and U.S. Navy Rear Admiral Grace Hopper, this innovative technology aims to redefine conventional radiation therapy by allowing patients to receive treatment in an upright position.

The introduction of Grace reflects Leo Cancer Care’s commitment to transforming radiation therapy practices. Research indicates that upright positioning may enhance anatomical stability and improve patient comfort, addressing limitations associated with traditional supine treatments. Patients who have trialed the technology report a more connected and comfortable experience during their sessions.

Stephen Towe, Co-Founder and CEO of Leo Cancer Care, emphasized the significance of this development, stating, “Our technology has always been bold, but we are pioneering with purpose and that purpose is to put the patient truly back at the center of their treatments.” The company aims to provide more accessible and cost-effective photon treatments on a global scale without compromising quality.

Key Features of Grace™

Grace™ integrates a fan beam CT scanner at the treatment isocenter, facilitating planning-quality imaging throughout the treatment workflow. This advancement sets the stage for online adaptive radiotherapy in the future. Additionally, the system features a large, ultra-fast multi-leaf collimator, significantly enhancing delivery speeds compared to conventional systems currently available.

The system will also be compatible with RaySearch Laboratories‘ RayStation® and RayCare®, the first treatment planning system and next-generation oncology information system, respectively, to support upright radiation therapy. Utilizing a fixed radiation beam, Grace™ is designed to reduce primary shielding requirements, ultimately lowering infrastructure costs. This could expand access to radiation therapy for patients worldwide.

Collaboration and Future Prospects

The initial five pre-commercial Grace™ systems will be deployed at leading healthcare institutions as part of the Upright Photon Alliance, a global research collaboration established in October 2024. Key members of this alliance include Centre Léon Bérard, Cone Health, IHH Healthcare, Mayo Clinic, and OncoRay. Together, these institutions will investigate Grace™’s potential to enhance patient outcomes and challenge traditional radiotherapy practices.

Leo Cancer Care continues to innovate within the field of radiation therapy, developing technologies that challenge long-standing conventions. The company aims to make advanced cancer treatment more human and accessible for patients globally.

Please note that Grace™ is currently under development and has not yet received clearance or approval for commercial sale. It is presented solely for research and discussion purposes.