MESTRO 2026: Four Scientific Tracks Shaping the Future of Radiation Oncology

Radiation oncology is moving faster than at almost any point in its history. New delivery technologies, real-time imaging integration, artificial intelligence, and a renewed focus on ultra-high dose-rate treatment are all converging — and the clinical and research communities are working to understand what these advances mean for patients. MESTRO 2026, taking place on December 4–5 at Alfaisal University in Riyadh, is designed to bring that conversation to the Middle East. The congress programme is built around four scientific tracks, each addressing a domain where the field is actively evolving. FLASH radiotherapy — the delivery of radiation at dose rates orders of magnitude higher than conventional treatment — has moved from a laboratory curiosity to one of the most actively investigated areas in the field. The biological rationale is compelling: at ultra-high dose rates, normal tissue appears to be spared relative to tumour tissue, a phenomenon known as the FLASH effect. The MESTRO 2026 FLASH track covers the current state of the evidence, from preclinical models to the first human studies, including the mechanistic basis of the FLASH effect, which accelerator platforms are capable of delivering FLASH dose rates, how dosimetry systems should be adapted, and the pathway to clinical implementation. The integration of magnetic resonance imaging with linear accelerator delivery has fundamentally changed what is possible in adaptive radiotherapy. MR-Linac systems allow clinicians to visualise soft tissue in real time during treatment, enabling daily or even intrafraction adaptation of treatment plans. The MESTRO 2026 MR-Linac track examines clinical outcomes data across tumour sites including prostate, pancreas, liver, and cervix; workflow integration challenges; physics and quality assurance; and regional implementation considerations for centres in the Middle East. Artificial intelligence is no longer a future prospect in radiation oncology — it is already embedded in clinical workflows at leading centres worldwide. The MESTRO 2026 AI track takes a practical, evidence-based approach to this rapidly evolving area. Topics include auto-contouring and structure segmentation, AI-assisted treatment planning, machine learning in quality assurance, and practical implementation frameworks including validation, staff training, and governance. Brachytherapy remains one of the most effective treatments available for several tumour sites, including cervical cancer, endometrial cancer, prostate cancer, and skin tumours. The MESTRO 2026 brachytherapy track covers gynaecological brachytherapy including image-guided adaptive techniques; prostate brachytherapy with both LDR and HDR approaches; interstitial techniques with advances in applicator design and imaging guidance; and skin and surface brachytherapy including electronic brachytherapy systems. Each track represents an area of active procurement interest. Centres evaluating FLASH-capable accelerators, MR-Linac systems, AI planning tools, or brachytherapy applicators are represented in the MESTRO 2026 delegate audience. Sponsoring the congress places your brand in direct contact with those decision-makers, in a context where the scientific conversation creates natural opportunities for substantive engagement. Sponsorship packages — including Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze tiers, as well as tailor-made options — are available now through November 15, 2026.