Mercy Medical Center has expanded its cancer treatment capabilities with a new technology that allows radiation oncologists to deliver therapy with greater precision and without the use of permanent skin markings, according to a news release.
The system, called Surface-Guided Radiation Therapy (SGRT), uses specialized cameras to monitor a patient’s position and breathing in real time throughout a treatment session. It works alongside Mercy’s existing TrueBeam radiation system, automatically pausing treatment if a patient moves outside an acceptable range.
“This technology gives us added confidence that treatment is being delivered exactly where it needs to be,” said Wook Lee, radiation oncologist at Mercy’s Hall-Perrine Cancer Center, in a statement. “It helps us protect healthy tissue while keeping patients comfortable and informed during their care.”
Traditional radiation therapy often requires small permanent tattoos on a patient’s skin to help align them correctly for each session. SGRT replaces that approach with camera-based positioning, eliminating the need for those marks. The technology can also reduce the need for repeat imaging or repositioning during a session, which Mercy says typically results in shorter, less stressful treatments.
The hospital plans to use SGRT across a range of cancer types, with a particular focus on breast cancer and other cases where precise positioning is critical to protecting surrounding healthy tissue.
“Bringing this technology to Mercy reflects our commitment to providing advanced, patient-centered cancer care close to home,” Dr. Lee said.
Mercy Medical Center is a 424-licensed-bed hospital in downtown Cedar Rapids and part of Mercy Cedar Rapids, a Catholic healthcare system serving eastern Iowa.
