The Central Coast Cancer Centre is taking a leading role in a research trial exploring how artificial intelligence could improve the precision of liver cancer treatment while reducing the need for invasive procedures.
Based in Gosford, the centre is the lead liver cancer site for a study led by the University of Sydney’s Image X Institute. Researchers are investigating whether AI can help track liver tumours in real time during radiotherapy, allowing clinicians to target cancer cells more accurately as patients breathe.
Liver cancer remains a major health challenge in Australia, with around 3,000 people diagnosed each year. It is also one of the country’s fastest-growing causes of cancer-related deaths, prompting continued efforts to improve treatment options and patient outcomes.
Current radiotherapy techniques often require small markers, known as seeds, to be surgically implanted into the liver to help clinicians locate tumours as they move. While widely used, the procedure is invasive and can carry risks and side effects.
The new AI tool seeks to remove that step. Using X-ray imaging, the system maps the tumour’s location and tracks its movement throughout treatment without the need for surgical intervention. Researchers hope the technology will eventually help clinicians respond more quickly to changes in tumour position during radiotherapy sessions.
Early findings from the trial have been encouraging, according to researchers involved in the project. At present, the technology is being assessed in a non-interventional setting, meaning it is observing and analysing tumour movement rather than directly influencing treatment delivery.
Dr Ben Zwan, Lead Research Medical Physicist with the Central Coast Local Health District, said the movement of the liver during breathing presents an ongoing challenge in radiotherapy.
“The liver moves when we breathe and we need to account for this movement during radiation treatment so that the beams of radiation continue to target the tumour,” he said.
He said the AI tool is able to track the tumour with a high degree of precision and researchers hope future developments could allow the technology to identify when treatment adjustments are required and potentially automate parts of that process.
The trial is also providing opportunities for local patients to participate in research that could influence future cancer care.
Minister for Medical Research and Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said the project places the region among centres contributing to advances in cancer treatment.
He said the research has the potential to support safer and more effective care for patients while highlighting the strength of clinical research on the Central Coast.
Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said the study demonstrates that advanced medical research is taking place beyond Australia’s major capital cities and could help shape future approaches to cancer treatment.
The NSW Government provides $5 million annually through the Cancer Institute NSW to strengthen clinical trial sites across the state, including facilities such as the Central Coast Cancer Centre.
Christopher Lee, Director of Medical Physics at the centre, said researchers are focused on improving the effectiveness of radiation therapy for patients diagnosed with liver cancer.
While further research and evaluation will be needed before the technology becomes part of routine clinical practice, the trial offers insight into how AI may support future cancer treatment by improving accuracy and reducing the need for invasive procedures.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
