Wardray PremiseCyberknife® Shielding |
| Part of the Wardray Premise Total Radiation Shielding Package |
Work Started for Harley Street CyberKnife®
TopWork is now underway on the HCA contract to install lead shielding for the UK’s first CyberKnife® cancer treatment machine. The machine is part of a £15m development programme for the Harley Street Clinic complex.
The CyberKnife® works in conjunction with CT cancer mapping technology and calculates how much radiotherapy a tumour needs to destroy all cancer cells without harming surrounding tissue. It can treat tumours that were previously very difficult and sometimes dangerous to treat with direct radiotherapy – such as cancer of the spine.
HCA had discussions with English Heritage and Westminster City Council about the positioning of the CyberKnife® in a specially constructed basement under listed buildings in Harley Street. Due to the age of the buildings and narrow access routes, this contract has proved a logistical challenge for all staff involved!
The contract includes calculations, design, build, test and final commission of the shielded room. The 6m x 6m enclosure requires a range of shielding thicknesses within the room. Approximately 300 tonnes of lead bricks will be used in the walls, ceiling and an 18 tonne sliding pneumatic door. The steel joists (pictured) are installed in front of the shielded walls to support a steel framework above. Steel sheets cover the frame and support 11 layers of lead bricks to shield the ceiling.
Wardray Premise Director, Sheila Wardley said:
” We are delighted to be involved in such an exciting project. From design through to final commission, our staff have the expertise needed to deal with such a large and unique venture ”
Discussions are underway to make the facilities in Harley Street available for NHS as well as private patients. Construction at this facility is well under way and it is hoped that treatments will start early in 2009.