Sandia National Laboratories has developed a groundbreaking patch that can detect and mitigate the impact of misplaced radiation during proton radiotherapy.
The primary goal of this innovation is to enhance precision and minimize collateral damage in cancer treatment, according to a press release by Sandia National Laboratories.
Current systems used in proton radiation therapy prompt the radiation to stop when movement is sensed through cameras. However, these systems are unable to determine how much radiation was misplaced or the dosage it was delivered at. This lack of information can have detrimental effects on patients' health and the success of their treatment.
To address this issue, scientists at Sandia National Laboratories have designed a protective patch that combines a sensor, polymer, electrodes, and adhesive. When exposed to protons, the system ionizes the polymer, allowing the electrodes to relay real-time data for beam monitoring and radiation control. This innovative patch not only detects misplaced radiation but also provides valuable information about its location and intensity.
The patch's development is especially significant in pediatric cases, where precision is crucial due to the potential harm to healthy neighboring cells. Proton radiation therapy has proven to be effective in targeting tumor cells, but it can also harm vital tissues such as those in the brain. Patients undergoing brain cancer treatment often have to endure physical restraints, including devices nailed to their heads to ensure complete stillness. According to the release, Patrick Doty, one of the developers of the patch, said the new patch offers a less traumatic alternative for patients, as it provides accurate monitoring without invasive measures.
According to the press release, in addition to its immediate benefits, the patch also holds promise for future advancements in cancer treatment. By integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning, treatment algorithms can be refined, leading to improved differentiation between cancerous and healthy tissue. This advancement could significantly enhance treatment effectiveness while reducing radiation exposure.
Sandia National Laboratories is eager to conduct real-life testing of the patch, particularly at leading cancer centers that have the capability to simulate complete proton radiation therapy. The ability to simulate treatment scenarios will allow researchers to further optimize the patch's performance and ensure its reliability in a clinical setting.
In summary, the innovative patch developed by Sandia National Laboratories offers a promising solution for detecting and mitigating the impact of misplaced radiation during proton radiotherapy. Its real-time data relay and potential integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning make it a valuable tool for enhancing precision in cancer treatment while minimizing collateral damage. With further testing and refinement, this patch could revolutionize proton radiation therapy and improve outcomes for cancer patients.