In rural areas, the arrival of high-speed internet is often a game-changer. Homes are more connected, businesses have new opportunities and telehealth becomes more accessible.
At the heart of this transformation is a tiny but mighty piece of technology: the optical fibre. Known for transmitting data at incredible speeds, these hair-thin strands of glass or plastic have become symbols of modern digital life. But what many don’t realise is that the same fibres helping us stream movies and connect with loved ones are also quietly transforming cancer care.
Optical fibres are being repurposed in the medical world in fascinating ways. One particularly exciting application lies in radiation therapy, the treatment of cancer using targeted radiation to destroy cancerous cells. Because precision is vital in these treatments, optical fibres provide a powerful way to monitor, in real time, the exact amount of radiation reaching the tumour and surrounding organs.
Traditionally, it has been difficult to measure radiation doses inside the body as the treatment is happening. Radiation therapy, particularly brachytherapy, where radioactive sources are placed inside or very near the tumour, is generally safe and effective.
But things can shift. The tumour or surrounding organs like the bladder, bowel, or urethra can move slightly during treatment. Even a small change in position can result in radiation hitting healthy tissue instead of the tumour, leading to side effects such as urinary and bowel problems, erectile dysfunction, or fertility issues.
This is where optical fibres come in. I’m part of a research team at the University of Limerick that has developed special fibre optic sensors capable of being inserted into the body to measure radiation levels in real time. These fibres are tipped with a special material that lights up when exposed to radiation.
The light then travels through the fibre to an external detector, providing instant feedback on the radiation dose being delivered inside the body.
This allows doctors to adjust the treatment on the fly, delivering the maximum dose to the cancer while sparing healthy tissues.
Optical fibres are ideal for this role because they are biocompatible, non-toxic, flexible, and do not conduct electricity. They’re safe to use inside the body and don’t interfere with other medical equipment. Their small size, comparable to a strand of hair, means they can be inserted with minimal discomfort to the patient.
This innovative technology is particularly valuable for treating pelvic cancers, such as prostate and cervical cancers, where nearby organs are at high risk of accidental radiation exposure. With real-time monitoring, side effects can be significantly reduced, improving the patient’s comfort, outcomes, and overall quality of life.
Not just sensors
But this is only part of the story. Optical fibres are not just passive sensors, they can be active diagnostic tools too. Researchers in Italy have pioneered a technique called lab-on-fibre, which integrates various sensors at the tip of a fibre. This essentially transforms a single optical fibre into a tiny, high-tech lab that can assess tissue properties, detect cancerous changes, and even help predict how a tumour will respond to treatment. (The Conversation)