Varian Medical Systems has received U.S. FDA clearance for a brachytherapy system that enables more accurate and flexible treatment of nasopharyngeal cancer.
   
The Nasopharynx Applicator Set has been designed for the delivery of localized radiation therapy in the upper throat area, Varian said. Suitable for use in the nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal regions, the new applicator set is CT and MR compatible and will typically be used in combination with external beam radiotherapy.
   
The set comprises two soft and transparent plastic ear, nose and throat mold probes with two very soft guidance tubes that can be fed through the nasal cavity without damaging the mucous membranes. It also features an expandable balloon for easy fixation regardless of variations in the patient's anatomy.