United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust’s (ULHT) radiotherapy department has removed the need to tattoo radiotherapy patients.
Historically they were marked with three small tattoos to help radiographers align the patient’s body accurately during treatment.
While effective, these tattoos served as a constant reminder of a patient’s illness, even after their treatment was finished.
They’re now using surface guided radiotherapy which uses sophisticated 3D camera technology to accurately position patients during their treatment.
It’s accurate positioning also allows the treatment to be paused.
Previously any movement, even a deep breath or a cough, would have meant starting the treatment over.
Jacob Curran, SABR and motion management radiographer said: “It’s a huge step forward for us and delivers safer and more accurate treatment that doesn’t leave a mark.”
