New surface guided radiation therapy improves accuracy, comfort, and outcomes for cancer patients
June 13, 2025
St George’s Cancer Care Centre in Christchurch is now equipped with cutting-edge radiation therapy technology, thanks to a generous donation from the Hugo Charitable Trust which has purchased a Surface Guided Radiation Therapy (SGRT) system.
This is set to significantly improve treatment outcomes and the overall experience for cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy.
The SGRT system, which uses advanced camera and sensor technology, monitors a patient’s position in real time during treatment. It creates a highly detailed surface map of the patient’s body, allowing clinicians to ensure precise alignment and reduce the risk of radiation being delivered to surrounding healthy tissue.
“This technology will improve the patient experience and treatment efficiency at St George’s Cancer Care Centre,” said Clinical Director and Radiation Oncologist Dr Brendon Anderson. “We are extremely appreciative of the generosity and dedication of the Hugo Charitable Trust to improving patient care in
New Zealand. SGRT offers a combination of technological precision and patient-centred care.”
Patients stand to benefit in multiple ways. SGRT allows for more efficient treatment sessions by confirming correct positioning more quickly, potentially reducing the overall time spent in treatment. It also reduces or eliminates the need for some uncomfortable immobilisation devices traditionally used during radiation therapy and may replace the need for permanent positioning tattoos, which some patients find distressing.
The donation is the latest in a long line of contributions by the Hugo Charitable Trust, which was established in 2017 by Maryanne Green in honour of her late father, Irish-born philanthropist Hugh Green. The Trust has donated over $19 million to a wide range of New Zealand organisations, with a strong focus on healthcare, education, and social services.
“This gift is an outstanding example of how philanthropy can directly enhance patient care,” said Dr Anderson. “We’re proud to offer our patients access to the latest innovations in cancer treatment.”
The installation of SGRT at St George’s positions the centre at the forefront of radiation therapy technology in New Zealand, reinforcing its commitment to world-class, compassionate cancer care.
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