Liverpool Small Animal Teaching Hospital

The Small Animal Teaching Hospital (SATH) at the Institute of Veterinary Science, University of Liverpool required the installation of a new Linear Accelerator to further enhance its diagnostic and treatment capabilities. The project formed part of a wider investment in advanced medical technology, following the recent installation of a Philips MRI and Toshiba Aquilion CT scanner.

The new Varian VitalBeam system needed to be delivered as a turnkey solution, completed to a tight programme, and installed within a live teaching and treatment environment with minimal disruption to clinical and educational activities.

Rocare delivered the full turnkey installation of the new Linear Accelerator, completing the project within five weeks. All patient-facing finishes and associated facilities were renewed as part of the works, ensuring a high-quality, modern clinical environment.

The removal and replacement of the redundant LINAC required structural alterations, which were carefully planned and executed to minimise impact on hospital operations. Major works were undertaken outside of teaching and treatment hours, with night-time and weekend working employed to maintain continuity of care and education.

This project represents Rocare’s fourth veterinary radiotherapy installation, adding to a growing portfolio that spans teaching facilities across the UK, including The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies in Scotland and Newmarket in Suffolk.

The new Varian VitalBeam Linear Accelerator is now fully operational and treating patients, providing SATH with exceptional radiotherapy facilities that complement its existing MRI and CT capabilities.

Drawing on experience from over 80 radiotherapy projects within human healthcare, Rocare delivered a technically complex facility on time and to specification. Our directly employed, specialist site teams provided the knowledge, experience and sensitivity required to work within a live veterinary teaching environment, giving the client confidence in a safe, compliant and future-proofed installation.