A groundbreaking in-theatre scanning technology, recently trialled on Australian patients, is being recognised as a revolutionary advancement in cancer surgery. The innovative cancer scanner, created by Device Technologies, was first implemented at The Epworth Hospital in Melbourne, enabling surgeons to assess the complete tumour during surgery. This capability ensures that all cancerous tissue is removed while minimising damage to surrounding nerves and healthy tissue.
Among the first to benefit from this state-of-the-art device was 66-year-old Joe Giacobello, who underwent life-saving prostate surgery last month. Giacobello reported that his recovery has been significantly easier thanks to the technology, which effectively reduces nerve damage and helps preserve functions like sexual and urinary health. He remarked on the importance of saving the nerves, likening the necessity of prostate removal to that of tonsils, with a focus on maintaining quality of life post-surgery.
Historically, surgeons have grappled with the challenge of removing cancerous tissue effectively while conserving vital nerves. Professor Nathan Lawrentschuk, a urologist at Epworth, highlighted the previous dilemma whereby patients were often deterred from undergoing surgery due to fear of complications, which sometimes led to tragic consequences.
The scanner allows for real-time analysis during operations, improving the detection of cancerous margins and enabling immediate decisions about tumour removal. Lawrentschuk noted that with this new technology, surgeons can obtain digital images within minutes to verify they have excised enough of the prostate. Associate Professor Marlon Perera, also an urologist at Epworth, described the advancement as a considerable relief for patients, labelling it one of the most significant changes in over a decade.
Looking ahead, this groundbreaking device is set to expand its reach across most capital cities within the year and will also be employed in breast and skin cancer surgeries. The introduction of this innovative scanning technology is poised to enhance surgical outcomes and patient quality of life, marking a pivotal change in the approach to cancer treatment.