Grand Rapids “Medical Mile” is now the world headquarters of the most advanced dual-cyclotron. A nearly $20 million philanthropic gift delivering the breakthrough, life-saving cancer treatment technology to West Michigan.
Two General Electric PETtrace 890 cyclotrons delivered to BAMF Health located inside the Doug Meijer Medical Innovation Building at the MSU Grand Rapids Innovation Center.
The cyclotrons are particle accelerators generating radioactive isotopes. BAMF Health COO Chad Bassett explains the treatment. Within 15 minutes of their creation, cancer patients receive the particle through an IV. It seeks out the cancer. Once attached, it emits a beacon for a second isotope to seek out.
“It’s like sending a tactical nuclear warhead directly to each and every tumor.”
“This will be the first time in the U.S. that people will be able to receive this therapy.”
Dr. Norman Beauchamp Jr. is Michigan State University’s executive vice president for health sciences. With virtually no side effects the theranostic treatment is now FDA approved.