Kovai Medical Centre and Hospital (KMCH) has consistently remained at the forefront of introducing cutting-edge technologies to ensure world-class healthcare.
In a major advancement in oncology, the Department of Radiation Oncology at KMCH today, January 2, 2026, launched Indian’s second and Tamil Nadu’s first AI-powered Adaptive Radiation Therapy (ART) system, ‘Varian Ethos’.
The system was inaugurated by Dr. Nalla G. Palaniswami, Chairman and Managing Director of the hospital, in the presence of Dr. Arun N. Palaniswami, Executive Director, and other senior doctors.
Pride in leading the fight against cancer
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Nalla G. Palaniswami said that KMCH has always taken pride in leading the fight against cancer, and the introduction of the ETHOS system, along with state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment, reflects the hospital’s continued commitment to advanced cancer care.
Precise radiation delivery to the tumour
Dr. Arun N. Palaniswami, along with Dr. Subramaniam, Chief of Radiation Oncology, stated that the AI-powered technology enables real-time adaptation to a patient’s anatomy, ensuring precise radiation delivery to the tumour while minimising exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. They added that this development represents a significant transformation in the quality of cancer care available to patients in Western Tamil Nadu and beyond.
About the New AI-Powered System
The launch forms part of a major investment of ₹70 crore in new medical equipment, which also included the introduction of the Symbia Pro Specta SPECT-CT system and a new MRI scan facility, reinforcing KMCH’s commitment to comprehensive, world-class diagnostics and treatment.
Unlike traditional fixed radiation plans, the Varian Ethos system offers a high level of personalisation and precision for every treatment session.
Each session begins with high-resolution three-dimensional imaging, allowing the oncology team to adjust treatment plans instantly to accommodate changes in tumour size or position, as well as natural movements of surrounding organs.
Powered by artificial intelligence, the system re-optimises radiation plans on a daily basis, ensuring accurate targeting of the tumour while reducing collateral damage to healthy tissue. This approach significantly reduces side effects, shortens recovery time, and improves the overall quality of life for patients.
The integrated system also ensures a streamlined and comfortable treatment experience, with sessions typically lasting 15 to 20 minutes. The ETHOS Adaptive Radiation Therapy system is expected to improve treatment outcomes for various cancers, including prostate, brain, head and neck, and thoracic cancers.
With this addition, the KMCH Comprehensive Cancer Centre further strengthens its position as one of the most technologically advanced providers of complete cancer care in Western Tamil Nadu.
