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The DVS (Dose Verification System) Smart Marker is a wireless, implantable radiation sensor which measures radiation doses in both breast and prostate cancer.

A new sensor device allowing doctors to receive data on the precise amount of radiation being delivered to tumors and surrounding tissue offers cancer patients at the University of Colorado Hospital some peace of mind when it comes knowing their treatment is on target.

It also can be used to verify the accurate positioning of the target tissue prior to treatment initiation. The University of Colorado Hospital is the only hospital west of the Mississippi River to provide this level of care.

The device is as small as the length of a dime and can be inserted inside the patient in less than 15 minutes. After each radiation treatment, the DVS provides the physician with a measurement of the actual amounts of radiation delivered to the target tissue. This allows the physician to verify that the treatment plan is delivered accurately, and make any necessary adjustments to the prescribed dose during the radiation therapy treatment course, if indicated. The DVS sensor wirelessly transmits data to a detection paddle held in front of the patient immediately following each radiation treatment.

Developed by Sicel Technologies , Inc., the DVS sensors are implanted during a minimally invasive procedure when treating prostate cancer. For breast cancer, the device can be placed at the time of surgery. Data on the amount of radiation being delivered to the target area can be gathered during the course of radiation treatment. If a dose deviation is detected, the treatment plan can be modified and corrected for each individual patient. Accurate delivery of the appropriate dose of radiation is critical for tumor control and cure.

Source: The University of Colorado Hospital

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