When traditional cancer treatments reach their limits, innovation becomes hope. At Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute, that innovation is transforming patient outcomes through next-generation MRI-guided radiation therapy — a groundbreaking approach that is redefining what’s possible for patients with advanced or metastatic disease.
This advanced technology, available exclusively at Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute, part of Baptist Health South Florida, combines the precision of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with real-time adaptive radiation therapy. The result: treatment so precise that it targets tumors with unprecedented accuracy while sparing surrounding healthy tissue
— especially in anatomically complex regions like the abdomen or pelvis.
A new era in radiation oncology
Radiation therapy has long been a cornerstone of cancer treatment, but traditional systems often rely on static imaging that cannot account for the subtle movements of internal organs. The MRIdian Linac system, however, enables continuous, real-time visualization of the tumor during treatment. Physicians can adapt each session to changes in the patient’s anatomy, ensuring optimal dose delivery even as tumors shrink or shift.
“This technology allows us to individualize every treatment,” explains Radiation Oncologist Dr. Michael Chuong, one of the pioneers of MRI-guided radiation therapy at Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute. “We can escalate radiation doses to tumor tissue with extreme precision, even in areas surrounded by vital organs. That’s a major step forward in achieving long-term control — or in some cases, remission.”
A story of remarkable recovery
One of the most compelling examples of this innovation involves a patient with metastatic bladder cancer who had exhausted all other treatment options, including chemotherapy and immunotherapy. The team at Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute delivered a series of precisely targeted MRI-guided radiation sessions to three tumor sites — the adrenal gland, abdominal wall, and lymph nodes.
Within months, all tumors regressed completely. More than five years later, the patient remains in long-term remission, with no need for additional systemic therapy and a return to a full quality of life.
“This case demonstrates the power of image-guided, adaptive therapy,” says Dr. Chuong. “It’s not just about prolonging life; it’s about giving patients meaningful years with their loved ones.”
Transforming the future of cancer care
The success of MRI-guided therapy extends beyond a single patient story. The technology has shown promise in multiple tumor types, including pancreatic, liver, prostate, and lung cancers. Early results from clinical trials, such as the SMART ONE phase 2 study, indicate that single-session, high-dose MRI-guided radiation may be both safe and effective, potentially reducing the number of visits while improving tumor control.
This paradigm shift is gaining global attention — particularly among leading institutions across the Middle East seeking advanced, minimally invasive solutions for complex cancers. With its state-of-the-art platforms and multidisciplinary expertise, Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute serves as a regional reference center for training, protocol development, and collaborative research.
“Our goal is to share knowledge and technology that elevate outcomes everywhere,” adds Dr. Chuong. “Through partnerships with leading hospitals across the world, we’re working together to expand access to precision oncology.”
As cancer care continues to evolve, Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute remains committed to leading through innovation, compassion, and collaboration
— redefining what’s possible for patients everywhere.
- For more information or to schedule an appointment, call +1 786-596-2373, email International@BaptistHealth.net, or visit: BaptistHealth.net/international.
