Gamma probe system trial is a success at UHCW

The C-Trak Galaxy gamma probe system available from Southern Scientific is used for the detection of radiation during sentinel node biopsies in breast, head and neck, melanoma and other intraoperative cancer surgeries. Head of nuclear medicine at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust (UHCW) Dr James Cullis explained why the system has been chosen for surgeons specialising in head and neck cases: “Compared to competitors, we found the Galaxy much easier to use and it provided better spatial resolution for surgeons.”

The OmniProbe has removable collimators making it flexible for a variety of procedures and the C-Trak Galaxy system can be fitted with alternative probes for specialist applications.

Directionality is improved in complex procedures by the Galaxy’s ability to reduce the effects of Compton scattering and by the changeable collimators. Dr Cullis added: “The changeable collimators are particularly helpful for surgeons in theatre when detecting nodes that are very close to the injection site such as in head and neck cancer.

“The demonstration of the probe was helpful, and allowing our surgeons to trial it in theatre was particularly useful. Southern Scientific delivered the initial training upon installation, which was straightforward and helpful for the surgeons, theatre team and nuclear medicine staff.”

Picture: Head of nuclear medicine at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust Dr James Cullis.

Published on page 16 of the April 2020 issue of RAD Magazine.