In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we celebrate Hanyang University Hospital for leading a simple yet meaningful change that enhances patient comfort and clinical efficiency in breast cancer care.
The challenge: Traditionally, patients were asked to change into standard hospital gowns before treatment—a routine step that often left them feeling exposed and uneasy. Beyond comfort, these gowns could also interrupt workflow, requiring therapists to readjust or remove fabric during patient setup.
The innovation: Technology meets humanity. Recognizing the emotional impact of this experience, the team introduced a new “clothing-on” protocol. Breast cancer patients are now encouraged to wear their own suitable clothing, such as a plain, light-colored t-shirt, that allows reproducible positioning while maintaining modesty.*
This approach integrates seamlessly with Brainlab ExacTrac Dynamic, a state-of-the-art positioning and monitoring system that combines surface-guided and image-guided technology for submillimetric accuracy.
Benefits at a glance according to the Hanyang University Hospital:
- Preserves patient modesty and comfort, reducing emotional stress
- Enables precise set up of ExacTrac Dynamic without the need for permanent tattoos or skin marks
- Streamlines workflow and reduces setup time
In their words: “What matters most is that our patients feel comfortable throughout the treatment process. With the new system, we can ease much of their burden, and that gives us great fulfillment in our work.” – Dr. Hae Jin Park, Radiation Oncologist, Head of Radiation Oncology Department
“The fact that patients no longer need to repeatedly change clothes or have skin markers drawn is one of the most satisfying improvements. It not only shortens the setup time, but also enhances patients’ overall quality of life. Since we no longer use ink, the treatment room stays cleaner and more pleasant, and maintenance is much easier. For breast cancer patients especially, some used to feel uncomfortable or even refused treatment when assigned to a male therapist. Now, those concerns have been resolved, which brings peace of mind to both patients and to us as providers.” – Je Hyeok Lee, Radiation Therapist
The impact: The department reports shorter setup times, smoother daily workflows and positive patient feedback, particularly around comfort and modesty.
“What I like about receiving radiation therapy at Hanyang University Hospital is that, except for the simulation session, I can wear a white t-shirt during treatment. Since there are male radiation therapists, it could feel a bit embarrassing to have daily treatments, but with this approach, that’s not an issue.” – Breast cancer patient, Hanyang University Hospital (via User Blog)
Honoring Breast Cancer Awareness Month with action: This initiative reflects the heart of awareness: turning empathy into everyday improvement. It shows that innovation isn’t always about new technology—sometimes it’s about using what we already have to make care more human.
Please join us in celebrating the Hanyang University Hospital for showing that true innovation blends technology, empathy and everyday action—especially during a month dedicated to breast cancer awareness and advocacy.
The statements above represent personal opinions and experiences. These statements may not be supported by scientific evidence or peer-reviewed research. For verified information about the device, please refer to the manufacturer's official documentation. *The workflows mentioned may deviate from the workflows recommended by Brainlab.