Surface Guided Radiation Therapy (SGRT)
Uses 3D camera systems to monitor patient surface motion in real-time. SGRT enhances accuracy and safety by automatically pausing treatment if movement exceeds designated thresholds.
What is SGRT?
Surface-Guided Radiation Therapy (SGRT) is a cutting-edge technology that enhances radiation accuracy by using 3D surface imaging to monitor a patient’s position in real time—without the need for tattoos, additional radiation, or invasive markers. SGRT ensures that radiation is delivered only when your body is perfectly aligned, offering a safer, more comfortable treatment experience.
How It Works
3D Surface Mapping
Using optical cameras, SGRT systems generate a 3D model of your body surface before treatment. This map is used to verify your position down to the millimeter—every session.
Real-Time Motion Monitoring
During treatment, SGRT continuously tracks your body. If you move beyond a preset threshold (such as breathing or shifting), the radiation beam automatically pauses until you return to the correct position.
No Permanent Marks
Traditional tattoo-based alignment is replaced by non-invasive surface tracking. SGRT eliminates the need for permanent marks on your skin.
Benefits of SGRT
Tattoo-Free Alignment
No need for permanent ink marks or skin tattoos, supporting comfort and confidence.
Non-Ionizing Guidance
SGRT uses optical light, not radiation, for positioning—ensuring patient safety.
Increased Precision
Real-time monitoring allows for sub-millimeter accuracy during treatment.
Enhanced Safety
Automatic beam gating reduces the risk of mistargeted radiation due to motion.
Common Uses for SGRT
SGRT is especially beneficial for patients with:
Breast cancer (especially left-sided, to minimize heart exposure)
Head and neck cancers
Cancers treated with Deep Inspiration Breath Hold (DIBH) techniques
Patients undergoing tattoo-less radiation therapy
Any situation where motion management and accuracy are critical
What to Expect During Treatment
Setup Without Tattoos
You’ll be positioned using surface imaging and gentle positioning tools—no permanent marks required.
Comfortable Experience
No skin contact is needed. You can breathe and relax naturally, knowing that the system will track motion automatically.
Real-Time Feedback
The system will guide your therapist and monitor your position throughout treatment, ensuring radiation is only delivered when you’re perfectly aligned.
Learn More About Radiant Cancer Center
With our office based out of Rancho Mirage, our treatment center is conveniently located to serve the entire Coachella Valley.
Every step of your care is monitored and adjusted to ensure the highest accuracy.
Other Services We Offer
Interested in exploring other precision-focused radiation therapies?
Intensity‑Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT)
Advanced radiation treatment designed to target tumors with precision while protecting healthy tissue.
Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS)
A non‑surgical, highly focused form of radiation therapy that targets tumors in the brain, spine, or other areas with pinpoint accuracy.
Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT)
Utilizes advanced imaging (e.g., CT, MRI, PET) before and during treatment to ensure radiation targets the exact tumor location, reducing margins and improving accuracy.