Siemens Healthineers has announced that its Varian TrueBeam radiotherapy systems have got US FDA nod for low-dose radiation therapy (LDRT) in adults with medically refractory osteoarthritis (OA).

 

The radiotherapy systems include TrueBeam, TrueBeam STx, VitalBeam, and Edge.

 

Osteoarthritis affects over 600 million worldwide. Driven by aging, obesity, and injury, the condition is on the rise. Many patients manage symptoms with medications, but a significant number continue to suffer pain and reduced quality of life. 

 

LDRT now offers a non-invasive, outpatient treatment option that targets inflammation, relieves pain, improves joint function, and may delay the need for surgery.

 

“This FDA clearance is a meaningful step toward integrating low-dose radiotherapy into routine care pathways for adults with medically refractory osteoarthritis,” said Gopal K Bajaj, emeritus chairman and medical director of the Advanced Radiation Oncology and Proton Therapy Department at Inova Schar Cancer and president of Radiation Oncology Associates. 

 

“It gives patients and advocates greater confidence in a clearly defined, regulated treatment option. For clinicians, it supports more consistent referrals and reimbursement discussions while encouraging responsible adoption and real-world outcomes tracking.”

 

The TrueBeam platform is already recognized for advanced imaging and precision beam delivery in cancer care. With this clearance, clinicians can now apply the same high-resolution imaging and accurate dose control to treat OA, providing personalized care while maintaining trusted workflows.

 

“This clearance is a powerful example of how we’re expanding the reach of precision radiotherapy to meet broader healthcare needs,” said Arthur Kaindl, head of Varian. 

 

“At Siemens Healthineers, we’re uniquely positioned to lead this transformation by bringing imaging and therapy together to improve lives not just in cancer care, but now in chronic conditions like osteoarthritis.”