Madurai: A senior radiological physics expert from Madurai has brought national recognition to Tamil Nadu after winning the Best Paper Award at a prestigious national medical conference. Dr. S. Senthilkumar, assistant professor at Madurai Medical College, received the honor at AROICON 2025, the annual conference of the Association of Radiation Oncologists of India, held in Kolkata.
The award recognizes his innovative research in medical imaging technology that has the potential to improve accuracy and safety in cancer treatment procedures.
AROICON remains one of the most respected platforms for radiation oncology professionals in India. Winning the Best Paper Award at this conference is considered a major achievement in the field
Dr. Senthilkumar won the award for his research on a novel X-ray-visible photographic printing technique. The technology allows printed images to become visible only when exposed to X-rays, helping doctors clearly identify positioning and alignment during radiological procedures.
The research paper stood out among several national and international submissions for its practical application in real clinical settings. Experts at the conference noted that the technique could significantly reduce visual confusion during complex imaging procedures and improve procedural precision.
The innovative printing method was successfully tested using conventional X-ray machines, CT scanners, and cardiac catheterization laboratories. Its adaptability across multiple platforms makes it suitable for widespread use in hospitals and cancer care centers.
According to Dr. Senthilkumar, the technology was designed to address everyday challenges faced by clinicians during image guided procedures. By ensuring that markings and reference images appear only under X-ray exposure, the method helps clinicians focus on critical details without distractions.
One of the most significant applications of the technique lies in high dose rate liver brachytherapy, a specialized cancer treatment that requires extreme precision. Accurate placement of catheters and needles is vital for treatment success, and even minor deviations can affect outcomes.
The new method allows medical teams to verify positioning more accurately during the procedure itself. This reduces the risk of errors, enhances patient safety, and supports better treatment planning.
Following the successful presentation and recognition at AROICON 2025, a patent has been filed for the technology. This step marks a crucial move toward translating academic research into clinical practice.
Speaking at the conference, Dr. Senthilkumar expressed gratitude for the recognition and highlighted the importance of research that directly benefits patients. He emphasized that innovations rooted in clinical needs have the power to create lasting impact in healthcare.
(Rh/ARC)