More Precise Radiation Therapy Is Here

New technology is bringing greater precision to patient care in the Sheila K. Riggs Radiation Oncology Center. The team now incorporates AlignRT Plus into its daily treatment alignment. This product, also referred to as AlignRT and Vision RT, is a video-based, three-dimensional (3D) surface imaging system that monitors the patient’s position in 3D before and during radiotherapy treatment. The full clinical team, which includes radiation oncologists, physicists, dosimetrists and radiation therapists, has received extensive training to prepare. 

During each treatment session, the patient’s position is compared to a reference surface. Any offsets, where alignment should be adjusted, are displayed to the clinician. When the patient is receiving radiation therapy on the linear accelerator, the system can also be used to track patient motion and will pause the beam when the patient is not in position. 

This new system is non-invasive, does not require the use of body markers, and produces no irradiation during the imaging process. Using the full body contour provides a complete view of the surface and skin, with easier manipulation of the patient. Prior to using AlignRT, radiation therapists had to use tattoos on the skin to ensure accuracy. While the marks were very small (freckle size), they will soon be unnecessary. By the end of this year, the Radiation Oncology team will have the software, training and experience to provide precise treatment without a permanent tattoo. 

Align RT has also been advantageous for patients with pendulant tissue, allowing adjustments to the skin itself. This new process has saved time with alignment and allowed better visualization with accurate breath-hold treatments. 

Patients who have visited the Radiation Oncology Center in recent years know that connecting to the new Sandra R. Berman Pavilion required a 180° reorientation of the entire Center. A new design will bring exam and consultation rooms, as well as more comfortable reception and treatment areas. That work is under way on weekends and overnight, to limit the impact on patient care, and scheduled for completion next year.