Sharing successes from centers around the globe

Clinicians in radiosurgery and radiotherapy around the world are delivering exceptional outcomes through technology, precision and compassion. Stories from the Circle shares the experiences of those who are driving progress and inspiring the community through their work.

Have someone in mind to highlight? Nominate them at info@novaliscircle.org

Leading by example through knowledge sharing and Novalis Certification

For more than a decade, Instituto Zunino in Córdoba, Argentina has been recognized as a regional reference center for high-precision radiotherapy. Built on long-standing clinical expertise and a strong culture of quality, the center has developed a mature SRS and SBRT program that continues to evolve through structured processes, external validation and a commitment to shared learning.

The team’s journey with Brainlab technology began in 2009 with iPlan RT and expanded in 2011 with ExacTrac X-Ray. Today, RT Elements is clinically adopted across the department of four treatment machines, supported by ExacTrac Dynamic—forming the technical backbone of daily practice.

A benchmark for quality: Novalis Certification

At Instituto Zunino, maintaining excellence means welcoming independent evaluation. First Novalis Certified in 2016, and successfully re-certified in 2020 and 2025, the team has consistently demonstrated its commitment to quality, safety and transparency. The most recent re-certification reinforces the center’s alignment with international standards and its place within the Novalis Certified community.

Why certification matters—in their own words

Silvia Zunino, MD, PhD, Director and Founder of Instituto Zunino and Fundación Marie Curie, explains: “Novalis Certification confirms that we work according to the same standards as leading centers in the United States and Europe. It gives us confidence in our methods and supports continuous improvement.”

Daniel Venencia, PhD, Head of Medical Physics, adds: “Even as an experienced institution, having our work audited helps us identify opportunities to improve. Clearly defined protocols and external review ensure our patients receive the best possible treatment.” Motivated by his commitment to excellence in SRS and SBRT and to support his colleagues, Daniel Venencia has now joined the Novalis Certification Program team as an auditor.

Beyond the clinic: sharing expertise to advance the region

Instituto Zunino’s impact extends beyond its own walls. Through Fundación Marie Curie, the team actively supports regional development by sharing protocols, workflows and clinical experience with the wider medical community. Every two years, the foundation hosts an internationally recognized SRS & SBRT congress (Congreso sobre Avances Integrados en Oncología, Radiocirugía y Física Médica: Innovación y Precisión en el tratamiento del cancer), bringing together physicians, physicists and researchers for high-level exchange. A dedicated hands-on workshop focused on Brainlab technology offers open insight into clinical workflows, physics considerations and decision-making processes—earning a strong reputation across the region. As Daniel Venencia notes: “Advancing treatment techniques, software, automation and artificial intelligence—and helping others do the same—is how we move the field forward together.”

Stories from the Circle: leadership through openness

Instituto Zunino shows that leadership in radiosurgery and radiotherapy is not defined by outcomes alone. By combining long-standing expertise with education, openness and a sustained commitment to Novalis Certification, the team actively contributes to raising standards across the region.

We’re proud to share Instituto Zunino’s story and to recognize the team’s ongoing commitment to collaboration, clinical rigor and patient-centered care.

The statements made by the clinician represent their personal opinion and experience. These statements may not be supported by scientific evidence or peer-reviewed research. For verified information about the device, please refer to the manufacturer's official documentation.