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Radiotherapy engineering

The radiotherapy engineering department plays a crucial role in making sure that the machines used for your treatment are always working properly and safely.

Linear accelerator undergoing service

Although you may not meet the engineers directly, their work behind the scenes is essential for the success of your radiotherapy.

What does the radiotherapy engineering team do?

The radiotherapy engineering team is responsible for maintaining, repairing, and ensuring the reliability of the complex machines used to deliver radiation treatments, such as the linear accelerator (LINAC). These machines need to be in perfect working condition to make sure your treatment is accurate and safe.

Here’s how the engineering team supports your treatment:

1. Maintenance of machines: The engineering team performs regular maintenance on all radiotherapy equipment. These machines are highly sophisticated and need to be carefully looked after. Engineers routinely inspect and service the machines to make sure everything is working as it should. This includes checking that the machines are delivering the correct doses of radiation, moving smoothly, and operating without any technical problems.

2. Repairs and troubleshooting: If there’s ever an issue with a machine, the engineering team is called in to fix it. Their job is to quickly identify any problems and repair them to avoid delays in your treatment. Because the machines are used every day, engineers are always on hand to make sure that any repairs happen fast so that your treatment schedule stays on track.

3. Safety and calibration: Engineers also work closely with the physics department to make sure the machines are accurately calibrated. This means that the machines are delivering the right amount of radiation as planned for your treatment. Ensuring safety is one of their top priorities—machines need to be tested and adjusted regularly to avoid any errors or risks.

4. Technology upgrades: Radiotherapy machines are constantly evolving with new technology. The engineering team helps implement upgrades or install new machines, making sure that the most advanced and effective tools are available for your treatment. This allows for more precise and safer treatment options.

Why is the engineering team important?

The engineering department ensures that the machines you rely on for radiotherapy are functioning perfectly. Without their work, treatments could be delayed, inaccurate, or even unsafe. Their constant monitoring, maintenance, and repairs allow your radiotherapy to proceed smoothly, ensuring that you receive the correct amount of radiation each time, which is key to successful treatment.

In summary, the radiotherapy engineering team works behind the scenes to keep the equipment in top shape, ensuring that your treatment is delivered safely, accurately, and on time.