In a groundbreaking initiative at the National Cancer Institute (NCI), Apeksha Hospital Maharagama, Jpura undergraduate Lakmila Swarnajith, from the Department of Physics at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, has spearheaded the development of an automated system for LINAC machine calibration support. This project, named the LINAC Machine Output Calibration Support App, promises to revolutionize the efficiency of cancer treatment processes, saving crucial time for patient care.
Swarnajith carried out this project for his internship as part of the honors degree in Physics program at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. Under the guidance of esteemed professionals, Swarnajith received mentorship from Head of the department, Prof. Shantha Gamage, and other staff members from the Department of Physics at the University. From the hospital side, Chief Medical physicist Athula Kumara, Medical physicist Sampath Madushan, and Lakitha Ruwinda provided invaluable support and expertise during the development phase.
Recognizing the pressing need for enhanced efficiency in LINAC machine calibration, Swarnajith dedicated himself to creating a solution that would streamline the process and alleviate delays in patient treatments. Prior to the development of this app, physicists at the NCI relied on manual calculations using MS Excel sheets, followed by the preparation of handwritten reports. This outdated method not only consumed valuable time but also introduced the possibility of errors. With the introduction of the LINAC Machine Output Calibration Support App, the cumbersome manual process has been replaced by a seamless digital solution.
Powered by Visual Basic .Net and the MS .Net framework, this Windows-based application simplifies calculations, eliminates the need for manual parameter retrieval, and automates report generation in PDF format. One of the key features of the app is its ability to access machine parameters from a centralized database, significantly reducing the time required for calibration. Moreover, users have the flexibility to edit the machine database, ensuring adaptability for use in various hospital settings.
The impact of Swarnajith ‘s innovation has been immediate and profound. Physicists at the NCI have embraced the app with enthusiasm, citing its user-friendly interface and time-saving capabilities. The positive feedback underscores the importance of leveraging technology to enhance cancer care processes. It is worth noting that Swarnajith ‘s project was driven by a deep sense of commitment to cancer patients. By optimizing the calibration process, he has contributed to expediting treatment procedures and ultimately improving patient outcomes.
Swarnajith ‘s LINAC Machine Output Calibration Support App stands as a testament to the power of collaboration between academia and healthcare professionals. Developed on the Visual Basic .Net platform utilizing the MS.NET framework, this innovative solution not only reflects Sri Lanka’s prowess in technological innovation but also serves as a beacon of hope for cancer patients and caregivers worldwide. Jpura Undergraduate Develops Innovative LINAC Machine Calibration Support App for National Cancer Institute (NCI), Apeksha Hospital Maharagama