Clinical experience of a tattoo application device

Abstract

Introduction

The use of tattoos for radiation therapy (RT) treatment is common practice. The Comfort Marker 2.0 (CQ Medical, Iowa, USA) has been designed to apply tattoos with a controlled depth injection, potentially resulting in tattoos that fade over time. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical implementation of the Comfort Marker 2.0 tattoo device including the patient experience and clinical workflow.

Methods

Patients undergoing RT treatment for breast cancer were invited to participate in this prospective pilot study. Patients completed a questionnaire after the planning session rating the level of pain experienced during tattoo application. Staff rated ease of use after each patient recording any feedback regarding the device. To evaluate tattoo fading, patients were followed up at 6 and 12 months after treatment to assess if tattoos could be visualised.

Results

Between August and December 2021, 50 breast cancer patients were recruited to the study. All patients received at least 3 tattoos. The majority of patients (80%) rated their pain between not hurting or hurting a little. More than 85% of staff indicated the device was easy or very easy to use. The three most common areas staff identified for improvement were: cordless device (39.1%), pen size (20.3%) and consumable rubbish (13.0%). All tattoos remained visible at the final follow up appointment.

Conclusion

Clinical implementation of the Comfort Marker tattoo device has been successful. Overall, patients found the process reasonably painless and staff found the device easy to use, providing a consistent result.