UPMC Hillman Cancer Center Launches Advanced Radiation Therapy That Provides Pinpoint Accuracy
HARRISBURG, Pa. (Sept. 2, 2025) — UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in central Pennsylvania is now offering the Surface Guided Radiation Therapy (SGRT), a cutting-edge technique that can be used to treat a wide variety of cancers, including breast, lung, head and neck, prostate, and gastrointestinal cancers.
During radiation delivery, SGRT uses high-tech cameras and sensors to track the contours of a patient’s skin and produce a unique map of the surface of their body to deliver radiation. These systems detect any movement and provide immediate feedback, allowing for precise realignment before and during radiation delivery.
“This mapping is essential because even slight changes in a patient’s position such as breathing, posture shifts, or movement can affect the accuracy of radiation delivery,” said Alexandra Chahwala, MHA, R.T.(R)(T), regional operations manager, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center Central Pa. “This technology allows us to treat patients with greater precision and safety, while enhancing their comfort. It’s a meaningful step forward in how we care for our community, and it reflects our commitment to delivering the most advanced, patient-centered cancer care close to home.”
Combining SGRT with X-ray or CT imaging for monitoring during radiation treatment allows more precise targeting of the tumor, minimizing radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. The use of this non-invasive surface guidance helps improve the accuracy, effectiveness, and efficiency of the entire radiation therapy workflow while providing safety and patient comfort across simulation.
UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Central Pa. has approximately 33,000 patient visits for radiation oncology annually, averaging close to 125 radiation treatments per day. It is one of just 57 National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers in the country, which provides cutting-edge treatment and access to hundreds of clinical trials.
For more information or to schedule an appointment at the UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Central Pa., visit UPMCHillman.com/CentralPA.
About UPMC Hillman Cancer Center
UPMC Hillman Cancer Center connects patients to the integrated expertise of leading clinicians, academic researchers, specialty programs and treatment centers. By partnering with the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in the region, is accelerating the breakthroughs from the lab to clinical practice around the world. UPMC - nationally ranked by U.S. News & World Report for excellence in cancer care - has nearly 80 cancer treatment locations throughout Pennsylvania, Ohio, New York and Maryland as well as centers in Ireland, Italy and Croatia. Backed by the collective strength of UPMC, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center provides leading-edge treatments and the latest in clinical investigations to transform cancer research, care and prevention—one patient at a time.
UPMC Pinnacle Foundation
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Malini Mattler Media Relations Manager
- September 02, 2025
- 717-418-4833
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Visitors often inquire about the Hanover Historic District, which is known for its over 2600 mid-19th to mid-20th-century buildings.
In Hanover, Pennsylvania, history enthusiasts can enjoy a journey through time with visits to the Hanover Area Historical Society Museum, which showcases the town’s rich past; the Warehime-Myers Mansion, a beautifully preserved example of early 20th-century architecture; and the Neas House, one of the oldest surviving structures in Hanover, offering a glimpse into the life of the 18th-century Pennsylvania German settlers. These historical landmarks provide a captivating window into Hanover’s heritage and are a must-visit for those looking to experience the town’s historical charm.
In addition to Codorus State Park and Hickory Falls, Hanover is also known for the Snack Town Street Fair, a vibrant festival celebrating the town’s snack food heritage with craft vendors, food, and entertainment, created in partnership between the Hanover Area Chamber of Commerce and Utz Brands
Hanover provides a rich historical experience with tours like the Civil War Ghosts of Gettysburg Tour and the Spirits of Jennie Wade Ghost Night Tour in nearby Gettysburg.
Hanover, Pennsylvania, is renowned as the Snack Food Capital of the World, home to iconic brands like Utz Quality Foods and Snyder’s of Hanover, which are part of the Campbell Snacks portfolio.
Dolphin & Anchor Pub: Located in the heart of Hanover, they offer traditional beer styles with a twist.
Fat Bat Brewing Company: A local brewery started by a beer-loving brother and sister team, known for their craft beer selections.
Lydian Stone Brewing Company: A nano brewery offering a variety of craft beers, from the light or malty to the hoppy or stouts; and, plenty of conversation.
The Borough office at 44 Frederick St, Hanover has everything you will need to find your way around Hanover.