Samsung Medical Center Sets National Record with 2,000 Proton Therapy Treatments for Liver Cancer
Samsung Medical Center (SMC) has become the first institution in South Korea to complete 2,000 proton therapy treatments for liver cancer, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s medical history. Since introducing the nation’s first proton therapy system in a private hospital in 2015, SMC has cemented its position as a leader in advanced cancer treatment. As of 2024, the hospital has performed more than 90,000 proton therapy procedures across various cancer types, offering new hope for patients previously limited by the constraints of traditional radiation therapy.
Liver cancer, one of the five primary cancer types most suited to proton therapy, has seen remarkable growth in treatment outcomes at SMC. Among the leading cancer types for proton therapy – including head and neck cancer, lung cancer, brain tumors, and pancreatic-biliary cancer – liver cancer cases not only account for the largest patient volume but also exhibit the steepest growth in treatment adoption and success rates.
The rapid advancement in liver cancer proton therapy at SMC is attributed to several factors, including the physical properties of proton beams, the application of respiratory-gated techniques, and advanced scanning treatment methods. These innovations have allowed the hospital to target tumors more precisely, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues and enhancing patient outcomes. SMC has also made strides in optimizing treatment process through multidisciplinary care and ongoing research into the efficacy of proton therapy for liver cancer. The hospital’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology with clinical expertise has solidified its reputation as a global leader in cancer treatment.