Oncology in the Western Cape has taken a notable leap forward with the introduction of the Align RT advanced marker-less patient tracking system, a first for the province. This innovation represents a significant milestone for private sector Surface Guided Radiation Therapy (SGRT), offering improved precision and safety in radiation treatments.

Cindy Aitton, head of Netcare Cancer Care, highlighted the growing international support for SGRT in treating various cancers, including breast cancer, brain tumours, head and neck cancers, and sarcomas. The recent installation of this cutting-edge system at Netcare N1 City Hospital's radiation unit is a major advancement for cancer care in the Cape region.

Radiation oncologist John Sauer, practicing at Netcare N1 City Hospital, emphasized the enhanced accuracy and safety provided by the Align RT system. “Using fixed cameras, the system tracks patients' skin surface in three dimensions for both set-up and motion management during radiotherapy, ensuring precise positioning throughout treatment. This development minimises exposure to surrounding healthy tissue while delivering the full therapeutic dose,” Sauer explained.

The Align RT system employs three cameras to continuously monitor thousands of points on the skin surface, identifying patient positioning in three dimensions and detecting any slight movements during treatment. If the patient moves, the system automatically pauses the radiation beam, preventing accidental exposure. This ensures submillimetre accuracy, keeping radiation away from healthy tissue and critical structures.

The system is particularly effective for delivering Deep Inspiration Breath Hold (DIBH) treatment for breast cancer, sparing radiation doses to the heart and lungs with submillimetre precision. It also enhances treatment times for other advanced therapies, including stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT), which targets lesions with high doses of radiation from various angles.

Sauer elaborated on the DIBH technique, which requires patients to breathe deeply and hold their breath, moving the heart away from the treatment area to minimise radiation exposure. Ingrid Williams, one of the first patients in the Western Cape to use this new system, reported that her treatment sessions are brief, allowing her to schedule them during her lunch break from work.

Marilyn Lameyer, Netcare’s regional radiation therapy manager, noted the time-saving benefits of the new technology. The Align RT system reduces set-up and treatment time by approximately 22%, eliminating the need for excessive daily X-ray imaging and providing a non-invasive, contactless experience. Additionally, the new marker-less system dispenses with the need for medical tattoos and allows treatments to be administered with an open-face mask for greater patient comfort.

Cindy Aitton concluded by emphasising the importance of investing in the latest cancer care technologies. “These advancements not only improve outcomes but also enhance the quality of life for cancer patients. Netcare remains committed to providing world-class treatment options supported by our holistic, multidisciplinary approach.”

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