- Who/What: Two new double scalp cooling machines donated to double treatment capacity.
- Where/When: East Surrey Hospital (Redhill) and Crawley Hospital chemotherapy suites.
- Access: Patients should discuss suitability with their clinical team during consultation.
Cancer patients undergoing treatment in the region are set to benefit from a significant expansion in hair-loss prevention services. The Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust (SASH) has announced the arrival of two new double scalp cooling machines, which have been installed at the chemotherapy suites in East Surrey Hospital, Redhill, and Crawley Hospital.
The addition of these units effectively doubles the existing capacity for scalp cooling treatment across the Trust. This expansion is designed to provide more patients with the option to manage one of the most distressing side effects of chemotherapy.
A generous anonymous donation
The vital medical equipment was funded through a substantial donation of nearly £20,000 to the SASH Charity cancer fund. The Trust confirmed that the money was provided by an anonymous volunteer, whose contribution has directly enabled the doubling of service provision at the Comet Day Chemotherapy Unit and its counterparts.
Trust officials, including Lead Chemotherapy Nurse Amelia Ling and Matron Sarah Burton, have welcomed the arrival of the machines. The investment ensures that more residents in the Surrey and Sussex area can access the therapy during their treatment sessions.
How scalp cooling helps patients
Scalp cooling therapy is a non-invasive treatment that works by lowering the temperature of the scalp immediately before, during, and after the administration of chemotherapy. According to medical experts at SASH, the cooling process can reduce blood flow to the hair follicles.
While results can vary depending on the patient and the specific type of treatment prescribed, this reduction in blood flow helps minimize the amount of chemotherapy medication reaching the follicles, which can reduce hair loss. For many patients, the ability to preserve their hair is a significant factor in maintaining their well-being and privacy during their recovery journey.
Patient eligibility and access
While the new machines significantly increase availability, scalp cooling is not compatible with all types of chemotherapy drugs or all cancer diagnoses. Its efficacy depends on the specific drug regimen being administered, and it may not be recommended for patients with certain blood-based cancers.
Patients interested in using the scalp cooling service should request a discussion regarding its suitability during their initial treatment consultation with their oncologist or lead nurse. This ensures the clinical team can verify if the cooling process is appropriate for their specific treatment plan.
While the use of the machines is provided as part of the Trust’s care, patients are advised to inquire during their consultation if there are any nominal costs associated with personal consumables, such as the individual cooling caps or specialized kits required for the treatment.
Impact on local healthcare provision
The installation of these machines at both the Redhill and Crawley sites ensures that the latest medical technology is available closer to home for local residents. By doubling the capacity, the Trust aims to ensure that the option of scalp cooling is available to a wider number of patients without increasing waiting times for chemotherapy slots.
SASH Charity continues to support the oncology and haematology departments through various fundraising efforts, aiming to enhance the environment and equipment available beyond what standard NHS funding provides.
