Governor Doyle Announces First TomoTherapy System in China

For Immediate Release: September 6, 2007
Contact: Tony Hozeny, Department of Commerce, 608/267-9661
Carla Vigue, Office of the Governor, 608-261-2162

New Radiation System to be placed in Leading Chinese Hospital

MADISON - Governor Jim Doyle today joined leaders from TomoTherapy to announce that on the Governor's Asian Trade Mission next week the Madison-based medical device company's Hi-Art system will be launched at PLA301 - one of the largest and most respected hospitals in China. TomoTherapy's Hi-Art system is one of the world's most advanced and versatile radiation therapy systems helping university research centers, hospitals and cancer treatment centers treat a wide variety of cancer types.

"TomoTherapy is furthering innovation that will bring new cancer treatment to millions around the world," Governor Doyle said. "Wisconsin is a world-leading research state with businesses like TomoTherapy transferring lab discoveries into commercial applications and jobs for Wisconsin citizens. Products and innovations from Wisconsin are growing in China and around the globe."

TomoTherapy's Hi-Art system integrates optimized planning, image-guidance and helical delivery to provide precise, continuous radiation therapy from all angles around the patient. The state-of-the-art system allows for better patient planning, more accurate delivery of radiotherapy, better dosage control, and fewer side effects. TomoTherapy's innovation and ability to reach critical markets is making it one of the state's fastest growing companies - with sales reaching $152 million in 2006 and on track to reach $225 million in 2007.

Governor Doyle will join leaders from TomoTherapy and hospital leaders to launch the system during his trade mission to China and Japan next week in Beijing.

PLA301 is the premier facility where the People's Liberation Army is treated. The hospital is known for its early use of cutting-edge equipment, techniques and processes. Launching the Hi-Art system brings TomoTherapy and Wisconsin innovation into the Chinese market - placing the company and the state in a strong position to compete in the world's largest and most underserved radiotherapy market.

China is Wisconsin's fastest-growing export market and the third-largest export market overall, up from fourth-largest in 2005. For 2006, the state's exports to China totaled $870 million, representing a 29 percent increase over 2005. Strong export commodities so far in 2006 include machinery, up 35 percent to $338 million; electrical machinery, up 48 percent to $121 million; and paper/paperboard up 80 percent to $12 million. The industries with the highest demand in China match directly with the industries Wisconsin is famous for - from medical equipment to manufacturing equipment - making the opportunities for Wisconsin businesses to partner with China virtually endless.

-30-