B.C. Cancer Kelowna Launches Canada’s First 3D-Printed Cancer Tool

B.C. Cancer Kelowna has unveiled a groundbreaking tool, making it the first facility in Canada to use a specialized 3D printer designed to enhance cancer treatment. This innovation, which creates tailored applicators for brachytherapy, aims to significantly improve care for women facing cervical, vaginal, and recurrent endometrial cancers.

The machine, resembling a standard 3D printer typically found in art studios or engineering labs, represents a major advancement in precision medicine. According to Dr. Deidre Batchelar, a medical physicist who spearheaded the project, the dream of developing this tool stemmed from frustrations with existing treatment options. “We were frustrated by having patients where we couldn’t get radiation in the shape that we wanted to treat our patients,” she stated.

Over the course of four years, Batchelar collaborated with a graduate student to secure funding and develop both the hardware and specialized software required for the project. The printer, which cost approximately $60,000, utilizes each patient’s MRI and CT scans to produce custom applicators that target tumours with an unprecedented level of accuracy.

Transforming Brachytherapy Treatment

Brachytherapy involves placing radioactive sources near cancerous tissue to deliver effective treatment. Traditionally, generic applicators have been used, but they often fall short when addressing the complex anatomy associated with gynecological cancers. The custom applicators developed in Kelowna are designed to fit the unique contours of each patient’s body and the specific characteristics of their tumours.

Dr. Hamad Raziee, a radiation oncologist at B.C. Cancer Kelowna, emphasized the benefits of this personalized approach. “It means that you are going to increase the [radiation] dose to the tumour while you’re protecting the normal structures,” he explained. This innovation not only enhances treatment efficacy but also minimizes discomfort for patients, as fewer needles are required during the procedure.

In 2025, the facility completed 31 procedures using the 3D-printed applicators. Each year, over 250 British Columbians are diagnosed with cervical cancer, with approximately 55 annual diagnoses occurring in the Interior region. Health Canada projects that around 1,600 women across the country will be diagnosed with cervical cancer, leading to approximately 400 fatalities from the disease.

Support and Future Collaborations

The funding for this innovative 3D printer was sourced through the B.C. Cancer Foundation Equipment Fund, which supports the acquisition of specialized technologies for cancer treatment. Dr. Batchelar noted that the program not only fosters innovation but also accelerates the introduction of advanced treatments to patients. “We did win a B.C. Cancer Excellence Award in teamwork for this,” she added, highlighting the collaborative effort behind the project.

B.C. Cancer Kelowna is now actively working with brachytherapy centres in Vancouver, Victoria, and Abbotsford to establish similar programs, further extending the reach of this transformative technology. This initiative represents a significant step forward in cancer treatment, promising better outcomes and enhanced quality of care for patients across Canada.