Bangkok: Chulalongkorn Hospital is making groundbreaking strides in the treatment of breast cancer by becoming the first in Thailand to offer radiation therapy that leaves no marks on the skin. The innovative Self-Gradual Radiation Therapy (SGRT) employs a 3D camera to accurately target radiation points, allowing patients to maintain their appearance and boosting their confidence during treatment.
According to Thai News Agency, Chulalongkorn Hospital, part of the Thai Red Cross Society, has successfully implemented Surface-Guided Radiotherapy (SGRT) technology. This state-of-the-art system is the first of its kind in Thailand, providing precision in radiation therapy for breast cancer patients while alleviating concerns about appearance. The real-time 3D imaging system offers accuracy comparable to traditional methods, enabling patients to continue their normal lives throughout the treatment period.
Associate Professor Dr. Jirutt Sriratanaball, Director of Chulalongkorn Hospital and Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Chulalongkorn University, highlighted that the adoption of SGRT technology reflects the hospital's mission to enhance treatment standards and care for patients' overall quality of life. He emphasized that the success of this new approach is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the multidisciplinary team at Chulalongkorn Hospital.
Associate Professor Dr. Chonlakeat Khoprasert, Head of the Radiology Department at Chulalongkorn Hospital, noted the growing prevalence of breast cancer among women in Thailand and globally. He stressed the importance of developing advanced radiation therapy technologies to improve precision and minimize the impact on surrounding organs, with the ultimate goal of restoring patients' quality of life.
Dr. Kittwadee Saksornchai, a specialist in breast cancer radiation therapy, explained that traditional radiation therapy often involves marking the skin with permanent ink, which can affect patients' mental health and daily activities. In response to these challenges, the medical team developed the SGRT system, which uses a real-time 3D camera to accurately monitor the radiation site without the need for permanent markings. This advancement allows patients to apply moisturizing cream from day one, significantly reducing skin irritation and burns.
Ms. Panthiva Unhsiri, a radiologic technologist specializing in medical physics, described how SGRT operates under an image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT) system. It creates a real-time 3D image of the patient's skin without increasing the radiation dose and automatically halts treatment if excessive movement is detected. This ensures maximum safety and confidence for patients undergoing treatment.
A patient who received SGRT treatment shared their experience, noting that they could maintain their daily routine, including showering and exercising, without worrying about skin marks or restrictions during their month-long radiation therapy.