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Fetal radiation shield for pregnant patients receiving radiation therapy

Project Overview

Approximately 4000 women per year require radiation therapy for brain and breast cancer during pregnancy in the United States. The deleterious effects of ionizing radiation on the fetus can generally be reduced with a lower fetal dose. The shield used to protect the fetus during standard radiation would include about half a ton of lead held safely over the fetus during treatment. The Department of Human Oncology at UW Hospital is seeking a safe and effective shield for to mitigate the potential effects of ionizing radiation on the fetus during treatment. The shield must be mobile, compatible with a variety of treatment delivery machines and techniques and be safe to use for all involved, particularly the patient. Our team will design, fabricate, and test the shield with clinical treatment delivery system over the course of the next two semesters, while focusing on designing a transportation mechanism for the shield and its support system this semester.

Team Picture

Team members from left to right: Lauren Heinrich, Janae Lynch, Megan Skalitzky, Lena Hampson
Team members from left to right: Lauren Heinrich, Janae Lynch, Megan Skalitzky, Lena Hampson

Files

Contact Information

Team Members

  • Janae Lynch - Team Leader
  • Lauren Heinrich - Communicator
  • Megan Skalitzky - BSAC & BWIG
  • Lena Hampson - BPAG

Advisor and Client

  • Prof. Beth Meyerand - Advisor
  • Prof. Zac Labby - Client

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