A New Era of Radiotherapy: New Surface Guided Radiotherapy Machine Now in Use at BHOC
We are thrilled to announce that, thanks to your generous support and fundraising efforts, we have successfully purchased a Surface Guided Radiotherapy (SGRT) machine, which is now actively in use at the Bristol Haematology and Oncology Centre (BHOC). This cutting-edge technology marks a significant advancement in the way we deliver radiotherapy, enhancing both the precision of treatment and the overall patient experience.
Enhancing Patient Care with SGRT
The installation of SGRT equipment in three of our linear accelerator bunkers and one CT scanner allows for remarkable improvements in patient care. SGRT uses projected light to map the patient’s surface anatomy, facilitating precise setup, ongoing monitoring of patient positioning during treatment, and effective management of any motion caused by breathing. This innovative approach means we can dispense with traditional positioning tattoos for many patients—a change that many have welcomed. As one of our patients shared,
“I had an intensive 20 round course of radiotherapy in December 2020 as part of my treatment for early stage breast cancer. As part of my initial planning appointment, I had three permanent tattoos placed to help align the machine for the treatment. I agreed readily at the time since as with most people having lifesaving treatment, you are simply glad to be offered the treatment at all. However, over time I have really come fo resent the markers. I had one placed directlyin the centre ofmy sternum and it is clearly visible in clothing with a lower cut neckline. Bearing in mind I was 30 when the tattoo was placed, I am expected to live with this reminder for decades to come. This central marker has bothered me enough to seek laser removal treatment. Despite being only two single dot of blue ink, I have already had two treatments to remove it which have still not fully worked and the tattoo remains. The clinic offering me the treatment was confident it would be erased in one treatment as it is such as small area, but now it looks likely to be three or more treatments until it is completely gone. They also mentioned that this may be because the ink was placed by someone other than a tattoo artist and therefore may have been placed deeper in the skin than necessary. All of this has made me reflect on how we have such advanced technologies available in the use of radiotherapy and yet patients still have to rely on such crude marking techniques as permanent tattoos. In my view, it is contrary to patient dignity to leave us with mermanent visible reminders of treatment when there must be lower impact ways to achieve the same outcome. Patients are already tolerating extreme image changes as a result og treatment which may include loss of their breasts, significant scarring or hair loss and so anything which can be done to reduce this burden on us should be encouraged in my view, including the use of tattoo-free radiotherapy treatment.”
Immediate Impact on Breast Cancer Treatment
Since March 20th, this state-of-the-art technology has been in clinical use for breast cancer patients at BHOC, helping to improve the comfort and experience of those undergoing treatment. Looking ahead, we aim to roll out the use of SGRT for all our radiotherapy patients in the coming months, making this advanced treatment option widely available.
Looking Ahead: Brachytherapy Treatment Unit
Thank you for your continued support in helping us enhance patient care at BHOC. Together, we are making a difference in the lives of those facing cancer and haematological disorders.
Our next fundraising efforts are focused on raising money for a new Brachytherapy Treatment Unit. This unit will deliver highly targeted radiation to tumor areas while minimising the dose to surrounding tissues and organs. This is achieved by placing a radiation source near or into the tumor via needles and applicators. Bristol delivers Brachytherapy to various areas of the body, including the uterus/cervix, prostate, skin, and esophagus, and is one of only four cancer centers in the Southwest to offer this specialised treatment.
Your support is vital as we strive to provide the best possible care to our patients. If you wish to donate and support this campaign, please visit our donation page.
The Friends of BHOC blog includes personal stories from patients to provide support and inspiration. These stories are unique and not representative of all patients’ experiences. The content is for information and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Stories are shared with consent and, whilst we aim to be as accurate as possible, medical information and practice can evolve and change over time. Third-party links are for convenience and not endorsed. By reading, you accept this disclaimer and can contact friendsbhoc@uhbw.nhs.uk with concerns.
