Clarity® Autoscan

Overview

Initiative type

Technology

Status

Deliver

Published

01 February 2018

Summary

The Clarity Autoscan system allows prostate position to be monitored in real-time during radiation therapy, through the use of an ultrasound (US) probe placed against the patient’s perineum. The prostate can move up to 2.5cm during treatment, displaced by rectal and/or bladder filling. The Clarity Autoscan system is intended to monitor prostate position, to ensure that radiation is correctly delivered to target tissue. This increases tumour control probability, and reduces off-target radiation side effects on nearby male pelvic structures, such as the rectum and bladder.

Key dates

Sep 2017 - Sep 2019

Implementation sites

Townsville Cancer Centre, The Townsville Hospital

Partnerships

Healthcare Improvement Unit

Aim

Provides an opportunity to pilot and evaluate new technologies within 'real world' clinical settings in the Queensland context.

Benefits

The potential benefits of this technology includes:

  • The Clarity Autoscan system should interrupt treatment if the prostate moves out of target position.
  • A reduction in treatment toxicities should lead to improved patient quality of life.
  • The Clarity Autoscan system should be well tolerated by patients, and most should be comfortable during treatment.
  • The Clarity Autoscan system should result in improved oncological outcomes.
  • The Clarity Autoscan system should allow for disinvestment in the use of fiducials.
  • Radiation therapists are anticipated to become rapidly proficient in using the Clarity Autoscan system.

Background

This technology was funded through the New Technology Funding and Evaluation Program (NTFEP). The NTFEP funds the introduction and evaluation of new technologies that:

  • Are safe and effective
  • Provide better health outcomes
  • Provide value for money
  • Provide greater access to care.

The evaluation findings will inform recommendations regarding the future use and/or investment of the technology within Queensland.

Evaluation and results

Key findings will be published at the end of the evaluation period.

Resources

Public resources

Technology assessment summary [PDF 1501.22 KB]

Key contact

Jacqui Thomson

Manager, Healthcare Evaluation and Assessment of Technology

Healthcare Improvement Unit

Email:  secretariat_hta@health.qld.gov.au

Last updated: February 2018

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