Abstract

Brachytherapy, an internal radiation therapy modality, is essential in the management of several cancers, such as cervical, prostate, and breast cancers. The introduction of a Brachytherapy Patient Transfer Table in Bangladesh’s radiotherapy facilities represents a significant progress in oncology care, particularly for patients receiving internal radiation therapy for cancer. Brachytherapy uses radioactive material inside or around the tumour, necessitating precise patient positioning for safe treatment. However, existing manual handling approaches increase patient discomfort, misalignment, and healthcare professional and patient injury. However, the country’s radiotherapy infrastructure remains underdeveloped, with equipment shortages and outdated technology hindering effective treatment delivery. One critical area requiring attention is the use of specialized transfer tables for brachytherapy patients. Brachytherapy involves precision and accuracy, both in terms of patient positioning and the placement of radioactive sources. Inadequate transfer tables can lead to discomfort, positioning errors, and even treatment complications. It provides ergonomic support for both patients and healthcare professionals, reducing physical strain throughout the transfer process. A transfer table makes things easier for patients who have trouble moving around, which is important for keeping up high standards of care. Considering the rising prevalence of cancer in Bangladesh and the escalating need for brachytherapy, the incorporation of contemporary patient transfer tables in radiation centres has become essential. Enhancing patient experience and treatment precision is essential, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes and fortifying the national cancer care framework. A specialised transfer table for Brachytherapy patients addresses these challenges. It facilitates uninterrupted patient transfer from preparation zones to treatment rooms, mitigates the likelihood of misalignment during procedures, and alleviates the physical burden on healthcare professionals. Moreover, it improves patient safety by offering superior stabilisation and reducing inadvertent radiation exposure to healthy tissues. In Bangladesh, these kinds of machines are needed because there are more and more cancer cases and more people want good treatment services. Upgrading radiation facilities with sophisticated transfer tables conforms to international care standards, enhancing treatment efficacy, operational efficiency, and the overall patient experience. This paper examines the necessity of implementing dedicated brachytherapy patient transfer tables in Bangladesh’s radiotherapy units to enhance overall treatment quality and patient outcomes.

Keywords

brachytherapy, radiotherapy, patient comfort, safety, dosimetry, patient transfer table, Bangladesh