Breast cancer patients at Bradford Teaching Hospitals have reason to celebrate as the Foundation Trust recently secured ongoing funding for Magseed technology, a ground-breaking innovation that aids surgeons in locating tumours and enhances the likelihood of complete removal. This development marks a significant step forward in breast cancer treatment, offering a more patient-friendly alternative to traditional surgical procedures.
Traditionally, surgeons would use a wire inserted into the tumour to guide them during the operation. However, this procedure can be uncomfortable and stressful for patients. Magseed technology replaces this method with a painless and efficient alternative, reducing both the time patients spend in the hospital and the number of procedures they must undergo.
Magseed technology was initially introduced at Bradford Teaching Hospitals and Airedale NHS Foundation Trust in 2022, following their successful application for funding from the West Yorkshire and Harrogate Cancer Alliance’s Innovation Bursary program. This program focuses on initiatives that promote early cancer diagnosis and improved care.
The West Yorkshire and Harrogate Cancer Alliance has continued to collaborate with the Trust, resulting in a successful joint bid for ongoing funding for Magseed technology. This ensures that more breast cancer patients will benefit from this innovative approach.
Image: BTHFT
Surgeon Cathy Tait, Associate Specialist and the Trust’s Multidisciplinary Team Lead for Breast Cancer Surgery, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “This commitment to ongoing funding is fantastic news for our patients as Magseed has transformed the hospital experience for our 150 breast cancer patients who require lumpectomies here at the Trust every year.”
Magseed technology brings substantial benefits, including reduced hospital appointments, reduced patient stress, and improved surgical accuracy in pinpointing tumours. This precision leads to less breast tissue being removed, resulting in better cosmetic outcomes for patients. Furthermore, it optimizes operating theatre utilization, as surgery can be scheduled at any time of the day, eliminating the previous need for afternoon procedures due to wire placement in the morning.
A spokesperson for the West Yorkshire and Harrogate Cancer Alliance said, “This is great news and will bring huge benefits to breast cancer patients in our region.”
Image: BTHFT
With advancements in imaging and screening techniques, breast cancer is often detected at earlier stages. However, early detection can lead to smaller, harder-to-locate tumours during surgery. Studies have shown that approximately 50% of all lesions are ‘non-palpable,’ meaning surgeons cannot locate them by touch alone.
Magseed, a magnetic, unbreakable seed smaller than a single grain of rice, is used to mark the location of the tumour for removal during surgery. Its minuscule size ensures it is painlessly placed within the lump, guiding the surgeon to the exact location of the cancer.
The ongoing funding for Magseed technology at Bradford Teaching Hospitals is a significant leap forward in breast cancer treatment, promising improved patient experiences and better outcomes. This innovative approach demonstrates the power of collaboration and investment in healthcare technology, ultimately benefiting breast cancer patients in the region.
