Automation transforms prostate cancer treatment for patients at NCCC

The Northern Centre for Cancer Care (NCCC) in Newcastle has reached a significant milestone, treating more than 1,000 prostate cancer patients using an automated radiotherapy planning system that is helping deliver faster and more consistent care. The Varian Edge system enables the team to create radiotherapy treatment plans more efficiently and with greater precision.

Normally, developing each plan requires hours of work by clinical experts. With Edge, much of this process can be automated, freeing up time for staff, and ensuring every patient receives a plan that meets the highest standards.

Clinical scientist Nick West led a collaboration with Velindre Cancer Centre near Cardiff, which originally developed the technology, to adapt it for use at NCCC, working with fellow clinical scientist Josh Kirby to tailor the system to the centre’s specific patient cohorts and clinical teams. Head of treatment planning Dr Nick Willis and consultant clinical oncologist and research lead Dr Rachel Pearson were brought into the team to ensure rigorous testing and validation prior to its introduction to clinical use.

West said: “Automated planning has saved more than 500 hours of staff time, a vital gain amid workforce pressures and rising demand. Our collaboration with Velindre Cancer Centre highlights the power of innovation and shared expertise between leading centres. It’s helping us deliver consistently high quality treatment plans while improving efficiency. This is a model for how technology and strategic partnerships can transform cancer care.”

Picture: NCCC’s head of treatment planning Dr Nick Willis, clinical scientists Josh Kirby and Nick West, consultant clinical oncologist and research lead Dr Rachel Pearson, Charlotte Anderson and James Whitfield.

Read this report on page 3 of the November 2025 issue of RAD Magazine.