Proton simulation module assists research at University of Liverpool

The University of Liverpool’s radiotherapy team has taken delivery of a Virtual Environment for Radiotherapy (VERT) proton simulation module. This software has been provided by Vertual as part of its support for an innovative Strategic Interventions in Health Education Disciplines (SIHED) research project funded by the Office for Students.

The research aims to establish the potential role of simulation weeks as partial replacement for clinical placement time across a range of allied health professions within the School of Health Sciences.

Project lead Dr Pete Bridge said: “We are delighted to get our hands on this unique simulation software. This will allow our students to gain an in-depth understanding of the principles, equipment and techniques. They will be able to see inside the patient and watch the dose deposition as the beam scans across the target volume.”

“The north-west has a strong association with proton beams with the Clatterbridge cyclotron and the new Christie facility, so it is very exciting to be able to offer virtual reality training in the modality on campus.”

Work is now under way to develop new resources that will help introduce students to proton beam therapy and to the VERT module. Vertual chief science officer Professor Andy Beavis said: “We are pleased to provide access to our new proton module as a part of its successful SIHED-funded project. Our collaboration has proved fruitful in the past and we are looking forward to future successes.”

Picture: Lecturer in radiotherapy and simulation lead Sarah-Jane Ketterer, Vertual chief technology officer James Ward and chief science officer Professor Andy Beavis with project lead Dr Pete Bridge.

Published on page 13 of the October 2019 issue of RAD Magazine.