§ Helen JacksonTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will take steps to ensure the continued availability of treatment through Gamma Knife technology in Sheffield. [72387]
§ Ms JowellCurrent expert advice is that the gamma knife has been overtaken by new linear accelerator technology (the linac scalpel), which can provide a greater range of treatments. Consequently, in January the NHS Executive agreed, with Sheffield Health Authority and the Central Sheffield University Hospitals NHS Trust, that a migration plan would be devised. This will enable the phasing in of the linear accelerator technology over a three year period whilst continuing the gamma knife service, achieving both continuity and modernisation as the linear accelerator technology comes on stream. The migration plans have been received and a business case will be considered shortly.