Tattoo-free radiotherapy introduced for breast cancer patients!

15 April 2025

Velindre Cancer Service is proud to introduce tattoo-less radiotherapy for a significant number of breast cancer patients, reinforcing our commitment to enhancing patient experience and advancing treatment techniques.

Since 10 February 2025, eligible patients have been able to receive radiotherapy without the need for permanent skin markings, thanks to the implementation of Surface Guidance Radiotherapy (SGRT). This cutting-edge technology ensures precise and effective treatment while eliminating the need for traditional tattoo markings.

Historically, small permanent tattoos have been used to accurately position patients for radiotherapy. Now, SGRT enables:

Accurate patient positioning using a non-invasive visible light system
Continuous monitoring and real-time adjustments throughout treatment
Removal of the requirement for permanent skin tattoos

Dr Catherine Pembroke Breast Clinical Consultant Oncologist at Velindre Cancer Service, said: “Radiotherapy tattoos often serve as a permanent daily reminder of a patient’s history with breast cancer. Removing the requirement for tattoos has the potential for an enormous impact on future wellbeing for this patient group”

Some patients may still require tattoos to allow flexibility in selecting the most appropriate treatment machine and ensuring an optimal treatment plan.

However, as use of SGRT expands, we anticipate that more patients will benefit from this innovative approach in the future.

This advancement was delivered through a multidisciplinary team of expert clinical oncologists, radiographers, and medical physicists. It marks a significant step towards more patient-centred cancer care while streamlining treatment workflows.