Linear Accelerator Replacement

PROJECT PROFILE

Linear Accelerator Replacement Location: Oak Lawn, Illinois Size: 2,500 sq.ft. Delivery Method: Construction Manager at Risk

PROJECT OUTCOME

The Linear Accelerator Replacement project at Advocate Christ Medical Center was successfully completed, providing a state-of-the-art radiation treatment facility that enhances the hospital’s ability to deliver precise, targeted oncology care. Michuda Construction’s expertise in healthcare construction ensured a seamless equipment transition, delivering an upgraded, reliable treatment suite for patients in need of advanced cancer therapy.

PROJECT SCOPE

Michuda Construction provided Construction Management at Risk services for the replacement of the Linear Accelerator within an existing radiation oncology suite. This project involved complex coordination to ensure safe removal of outdated equipment and the precise installation of a new, advanced linear accelerator to support modern oncology treatments.

The scope of work included:

• Dismantling and Removal of Existing Linear Accelerator: Safe decommissioning and removal of the outdated linear accelerator unit, involving specialized handling due to the equipment’s size and radiation shielding requirements.

• Installation of New Linear Accelerator: Integration of a high-performance linear accelerator, requiring precise alignment with radiation shielding and support infrastructure to ensure accurate and effective treatment delivery.

• Radiation Shielding Modifications: Installation of additional lead-lined walls, doors, and structural reinforcements to meet updated safety standards and provide maximum radiation containment.

• Critical Pathway Strategy: Michuda Construction developed a detailed pathway to transport the linear accelerator through occupied hospital areas without disrupting operations or egress. Utilizing Building Information Modeling (BIM) and augmented reality, Michuda ensured spatial compatibility and efficient transport through corridors and doorways.

• Infrastructure Enhancements: Updates to the room’s MEP systems, including specialized HVAC, electrical, and plumbing modifications, to support the new equipment’s operational needs.
  

CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS

The Linear Accelerator Replacement project presented unique challenges, particularly with regard to equipment transport and installation in a live healthcare environment. Michuda addressed these challenges with precise planning and effective solutions:

1. Critical Pathway Through Occupied Space: The size and weight of the linear accelerator necessitated a carefully planned pathway through occupied hospital areas. Michuda utilized BIM and augmented reality to pre-plan the transport route, ensuring compatibility with corridor dimensions and minimizing disruption to hospital operations.

2. Radiation Safety and Shielding: To ensure patient and staff safety, the project required rigorous compliance with radiation shielding standards. Michuda’s team installed additional lead-lined walls and doors, working closely with radiation safety consultants to guarantee full compliance.

3. Complex MEP Coordination: The new linear accelerator required specific MEP adjustments, including HVAC upgrades for temperature control and electrical modifications to handle the equipment’s power load. Michuda coordinated these updates in phases to prevent downtime and ensure seamless integration with hospital infrastructure.
   

KEY PROJECT ELEMENTS

• Precision Equipment Integration: Successful installation of a state-of-the-art linear accelerator, aligned with stringent safety and performance requirements.

• Enhanced Radiation Shielding: Additional lead-lined walls, doors, and structural reinforcements to meet updated radiation containment standards.

• Strategic Pathway Planning: Use of BIM and augmented reality to design an efficient, disruption-free pathway for equipment transport through the hospital.