Proton Beam Therapy Program
About Mayo Clinic's Program
Mayo Clinic's Proton Beam Therapy Program is a new addition to the Mayo Clinic Cancer Center, the only national cancer center, with sites in Arizona, Florida and Minnesota.
The program differs from most other proton therapy programs in the United States in that it will exclusively feature intensity-modulated proton beam therapy, using pencil beam scanning, an advance over current radiation and proton therapy methods because its beam conforms more closely to the tumor, better sparing surrounding healthy tissue from harm. All eight treatment rooms at Mayo Clinic's two facilities will feature this advanced technology.
The first treatment rooms will be available for patients in Rochester in the summer of 2015 and in Arizona in 2016. All eight treatment rooms will be operational by 2017.
Mayo's facility
The synchrotron generates and accelerates the proton beam for the treatment rooms. Radiation is synchronized with the patient's breathing. Research
One of Mayo Clinic's priorities is to advance the science of proton therapy, which is still in its infancy. Mayo Clinic researchers at the two proton beam facilities will conduct joint clinical studies as a unified program. Clinical outcomes for all Mayo patients will be entered into one central database to improve care models and services for cancer patients. Mayo also plans to foster collaborative research with other centers worldwide.
More information
Dr. Foote 
Dr. KeoleProgram leadership
- Arizona Sameer R. Keole, M.D., Radiation Oncology
- MinnesotaRobert L. Foote, M.D., Chair, Radiation Oncology
How you can help
Proton beam therapy is at a pivotal point in its development. Mayo Clinic's leaders and scientific experts have determined that the time is right to invest in the technology to improve patient care. Mayo has the institutional dedication, leadership, expertise and collaborations to lead the continuing development and application of proton beam therapy.
Your support will help ensure this vital mission reaches its full potential. Mayo Clinic has committed institutional capital to the proton beam project, but philanthropic partners are needed to ensure the successful completion of the Minnesota and Arizona proton beam facilities. Join with Mayo in providing this leading-edge treatment option for patients.