Austin Health’s Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre is the first hospital in Victoria to introduce an advanced form of whole-body radiation that aims to improve patient recovery and reduce side effects for those preparing for stem cell and bone marrow transplants.
The technique, known as Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT) for Total Body Irradiation (TBI), allows doctors to precisely shape and adjust the radiation dose in real time. This precision means vital organs such as the lungs, kidneys, and eyes receive less unnecessary exposure, while the diseased bone marrow receives the full treatment needed to prepare the body for transplant.
Total body radiation is typically used for patients with blood cancers, such as leukemia or myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), to clear diseased bone marrow and make way for healthy donor cells.
Kate Minchin, 60, is one of the first patients to receive VMAT TBI at Austin Health. Diagnosed with MDS, she received two sessions of whole-body radiation in October 2025 before undergoing a stem cell transplant donated by her daughter.
“I cannot really compare it to the old treatment, but from a horrible experience of being very sick with MDS, the radiation was surprisingly good,” Kate said.
“The staff were incredibly compassionate. They made sure I was comfortable, always covered, they were extremely respectful and even let me listen to jazz during the session. That made a huge difference.”
Kate, a mother of three and part-time bookkeeper, spent five weeks in hospital and is now recovering at home. She continues to attend appointments at the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre and is hopeful for remission soon.
Professor Farshad Foroudi, Director of Radiation Oncology at the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre, said, “This technique has been used at the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre since last year, making us the first hospital in Victoria to offer it. It is already well established overseas and interstate, providing clear benefits for patients undergoing bone marrow transplantation.”
“Total body irradiation and bone marrow transplant can be intensive treatments with significant side effects. VMAT allows us to target the bone marrow more precisely while protecting surrounding healthy organs. This should improve cancer control, reduce side effects, and support a smoother recovery for patients.”
“The Olivia Newton-John Cancer & Wellness Centre is delighted that this innovative treatment is now our standard of care.”
The centre has treated six patients with VMAT TBI since mid-2025. While formal clinical data is still emerging, early experience mirrors international reports suggesting this technique aims to improve treatment precision, reduce side effects, and enhance the patient experience.