Based in Gosford, the centre is the lead liver cancer site for a study led by the University of Sydney’s Image X Institute.
The trial is investigating how AI can accurately track liver tumours in real time during radiotherapy, allowing doctors to deliver treatment more precisely and safely.
Around 3,000 Australians are diagnosed with liver cancer each year, and it remains the fastest-growing cause of cancer death in the country. Traditional radiotherapy treatment often requires small marker seeds to be surgically implanted into the liver to help clinicians locate tumours as they move when a patient breathes.
The AI technology removes the need for this procedure by using advanced X-ray imaging to map and monitor tumour movement with a high degree of accuracy. Researchers believe this could reduce treatment risks, improve patient comfort and enhance treatment outcomes.
Minister for Medical Research and Central Coast David Harris said the trial places the region at the forefront of global cancer innovation and highlights the expertise of local clinicians and researchers.
The study is currently recruiting Central Coast patients, providing residents with access to cutting-edge research that could help shape the future of cancer care.
Central Coast Local Health District Lead Research Medical Physicist Dr Ben Zwan said the AI system can precisely track tumour movement caused by breathing, allowing radiation beams to remain accurately targeted throughout treatment.
Early results have been promising, with researchers hopeful the technology will eventually guide or even automate treatment adjustments during radiotherapy sessions.
Central Coast Cancer Centre Director of Medical Physics Christopher Lee said the trial demonstrates the world-class capabilities of the region’s research teams and has the potential to improve outcomes for liver cancer patients across Australia and beyond.
The NSW Government invests $5M annually through the Cancer Institute NSW to support cancer clinical trials across the state.
