Introducing the treatment of tomorrow: Ethos

Introducing the treatment of tomorrow: Ethos

In May 2025, thanks to $1 million in donor generosity, London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) became the fourth site in Canada to install an Ethos LINAC. Ethos is changing the game with artificial intelligence (AI) integration and enhanced imaging capabilities.

What does this mean for patients?

• Shorter wait times for LINAC treatments and CT scans
• Quicker and more comfortable sessions
• Fewer side effects
• More personalized care
• Improved accuracy

Accelerator waveguide

Electrons are accelerated close to the speed of light using powerful electromagnetic waves. This energy is used to generate an electron beam. 

Target

If x-ray treatment is needed, the electron beam hits a heavy metal target, converting it into high-energy x-ray beams—ideal for tumours located deep beneath the skin's surface.

Real-time adaptive tool

Ethos can detect changes in the body—such as tumour growth or patient weight fluctuations—and, within minutes, adapts the treatment plan before delivering radiation. Unlike older systems that required days for a new CT scan and manual re-planning, Ethos uses AI to adjust within 10 minutes. This not only reduces side effects by better targeting the tumour but also frees up CT scanners, improving access for other patients.

Shielding

This ensures radiation is directed only where needed, protecting patients, staff and surrounding areas from unintended exposure. 

Multi-leaf collimator

By moving these leaves, Ethos can customize the radiation beam's shape and even adjust its intensity across the treatment area.

The rotating gantry

 Unlike older machines, Ethos has a circular gantry (similar to a CT scanner), allowing it to scan 4x faster than previous models.

Surface Guided Radiation Therapy (SGRT)

SGRT uses multiple 3D cameras to create a surface map of the patient in real-time during treatment, ensuring accurate positioning.

4,000–4,500 patients receive radiation therapy at LHSC each year 

Ethos can treat 10–20 more patients per day

Breast cancer treatment time may be reduced from 15–20 minutes to just 8 minutes

London is the second site in Ontario to have this machine and will begin treating patients in July 2025