The Research Team at Paul Strickland Scanner Centre has set itself the ambitious goal of revolutionising medical imaging and radiography research. Kirti Thakor, research radiographer at the centre, explains how she and the research team are working to establish the centre as a beacon of excellence in imaging-focused research.
“We want to be recognised as a centre where radiographers excel in clinical research,” says Kirti. The centre is not merely content with participating in and delivering clinical trials; it aims to drive innovations in imaging that directly enhance patient care and streamline processes for both patients and staff. One of the centre’s most exciting projects with the manufacturers is the innovation of a new imaging sequence that could eventually merge MRI and CT scan capabilities. “This could potentially (in future coming years) eliminate the need for separate CT scans in many cases, reducing radiation dose to patients whilst reducing hospital appointments and making the experience more comfortable for patients,” explains Kirti. This innovation exemplifies the centre’s commitment to reducing patient burden while meeting national targets for reducing waiting times. It could be a significant improvement for our patients, meaning they would need to make far fewer journeys to Mount Vernon.
Another exciting initiative is the Bright Light Therapy Project, which investigates the impact of light therapy on staff suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
“We’re assessing if light therapy lamps, which simulate natural daylight, can improve the well-being of our staff during the winter months. It’s thrilling to work on a project that could potentially have a global impact if proven successful.” The centre’s research extends beyond oncology into fields such as arthritis and liver imaging. Collaboration with other medical centres and hospitals is crucial to our research efforts. “We will be partnering with Hillingdon Hospital for research especially PET-CT scans and have worked with Imperial College on prostate imaging,” she says. These collaborations ensure that the centre remains at the forefront of medical imaging advancements. The impact of our research on patient care is profound, particularly in oncology. “Many cancer patients participate in clinical trials as a last resort, but these trials often give them hope and access to cutting-edge treatments,” says Kirti. While the immediate benefits may not always be apparent, the long-term potential for improving cancer treatments is significant. Technological advancements also play an important role at Paul Strickland Scanner Centre. The centre utilises Artificial Intelligence (AI) reporting systems to enhance the accuracy and speed of diagnostics.
“AI helps in identifying lesions more efficiently, providing detailed reports faster, which is crucial for oncology patients who need timely and precise information,” she explains. Despite these advancements, challenges remain – including time constraints and staff engagement. “Clinical research is demanding and requires continuous learning and skill development. Staff at the centre work extremely hard, making it a challenge to find time for research projects.”
To address this, the centre is engaging with staff to understand their needs and holds regular clinics to provide support and foster engagement. Patient involvement is another area that the centre aims to take to a new level. Kirti acknowledges the need for a more structured approach to engage patients in research. “It would be great to have separate patient experience group for research to gather their views and involve them in our projects,” she says. This patient-centric approach is essential for securing funding and ethics approval, and it aligns with the centre’s vision of making research more inclusive and impactful. “We want to be a research-focused imaging centre where radiographers excel in clinical research, and our work reflects that ambition every day. Our patients are critical in making all this possible.” Fundraisers and supporters also play a vital role in the success of the centre’s research initiatives.
“Donations are critical to what we are able to do for patients.
Thank you for supporting us – it really means a lot to me and the team.” Kirti and the research team would love to hear from our supporters about what type of research they want to see.
“Their input is invaluable in shaping our research agenda and ensuring it meets the needs and expectations of patients and the wider community,” Kirti said. If you’d like to help shape the research agenda at the centre, email research radiographer Kirti at kirti.thakor@stricklandscanner.org.uk
