Tattoo-less Radiation Therapy
An advanced setup that avoids permanent skin marks (tattoos) by using non-invasive positioning techniques like SGRT or other optical systems. This reduces visible reminders while maintaining accuracy.
What is Tattoo-less Radiation Therapy?
Tattoo-less Radiation Therapy is an innovative technique that eliminates the need for permanent skin markings during radiation treatment. Traditionally, small tattoos were used to help align patients precisely for each session. While effective, these marks could serve as lifelong reminders of cancer treatment.
With tattoo-less technology, we use advanced surface-guided and image-guided systems to position patients with equal—if not better—accuracy, without leaving any visible markings on the skin.
How It Works
Surface-Guided Radiation Therapy (SGRT)
Using 3D optical surface tracking, SGRT continuously monitors your body’s position in real-time. This allows for accurate alignment without relying on skin markings.
Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT)
High-resolution imaging, such as onboard CT or X-rays, is used before and during treatment to verify the precise location of the tumor and patient positioning.
Non-Invasive Setup
Instead of using tattoos, temporary skin markers or anatomical landmarks can be used during initial setup and removed after planning. Optical and surface imaging then guide daily treatment alignment.
Benefits of Tattoo-less Radiation Therapy
No Permanent Marks
Avoids the need for permanent skin tattoos, offering a more dignified and empowering experience for patients.
Enhanced Comfort
Reduces emotional distress and helps patients move forward without visual reminders of treatment.
Just as Accurate
Surface-guided systems and imaging provide highly accurate daily alignment—matching or exceeding traditional methods.
Ideal for All Patients
Especially beneficial for patients with sensitive skin, younger patients, or those for whom tattoos may pose cultural or emotional concerns.
Common Uses for Tattoo-less Radiation Therapy
Tattoo-less Radiation Therapy is often recommended for:
Breast Cancer Treatments
Head & Neck Cancers
Pediatric Cancer Patients
Patients with Skin Sensitivities or Conditions
Cosmetically Sensitive Areas
Patients with Cultural, Religious, or Personal Objections to Tattoos
What to Expect During Treatment
Planning & Imaging
You'll undergo a CT or MRI scan to plan your treatment, just as with traditional radiation therapy.
Comfortable Setup
You’ll be positioned using custom immobilization devices and non-permanent markers (if needed).
No Tattoos Required
Your care team will use surface imaging or anatomical landmarks to position you with sub-millimeter precision each day.
Continuous Monitoring
Real-time tracking during each session ensures your body remains aligned throughout treatment.
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.
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.
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.