Vertec product specialist Michael Davis, technical development lead radiographer Paul Bartley, head of radiotherapy physics Keven Burke, radiographer Laura Appleby, lead physicist for Q&A and imaging Andrew Greenhalgh and C-Rad global sales manager west Kent Obrink.
James Cook University Hospital has installed a C-Rad Catalyst patient position monitoring system supplied by Vertec Scientific in its Endeavour Unit. The hospital is said to be noted for its positive view of advanced technologies in patient care and the C-Rad Catalyst is the first to be installed in the UK.. The hospital is noted for its positive view of advanced technologies in patient care and the C-Rad Catalyst is the first to be installed in the UK.
Mounted on the ceiling above the linear accelerator, Catalyst optically monitors body movements and breathing of patients on the table.  Requiring minimal user interaction, Catalyst acts as an always-present decision support system where the required information is projected directly onto the couch or patient. The system provides immediate and real-time feedback, so the therapist can maintain focus on ensuring the best possible patient comfort and treatment outcome.
Consultant clinical oncologist Dr Nicola Storey said: “Our aim is to deliver the highest possible dose of radiation to a tumour, while minimising any effect on surrounding healthy tissues. What Catalyst does is help with the patient’s alignment and positioning without the need for markers, as all required information is obtained using the light projected on the skin.”
See the full report on page 9 of the November 2015 issue of RAD Magazine.