Skip to Content

Published on October 30, 2025

Technology That Sees You, Not Marks You

Cone Health patients receive cancer treatment without permanent tattoos.

Greensboro— All three of Cone Health’s Radiation Oncology locations— Alamance Regional Medical Center in Burlington, MedCenter Asheboro, and Wesley Long Cancer Center in Greensboro —have received the “Tattooless Award” from VisionRT. This recognition highlights Cone Health’s commitment to compassionate, patient-first care and its leadership in adopting innovative technologies that improve both clinical outcomes and emotional well-being. Award for tattooless technology

For decades, radiation therapy required small permanent tattoos on patients’ skin to guide daily treatment setup. While effective, these marks often became lasting reminders of a difficult chapter in a patient’s life. They could be emotionally distressing, difficult to conceal, and for some, a source of shame or discomfort. Cone Health recognized that healing is more than physical; it is also emotional. By eliminating tattoos, the health system is helping patients move forward without permanent visual reminders of their cancer journey.

Cone Health has replaced tattoos with AlignRT, a surface-guided radiation therapy  technology developed by VisionRT. AlignRT uses advanced 3D camera systems to track a patient’s body surface in real time, ensuring precise positioning without the need for permanent skin marks. The system automatically pauses treatment if a patient moves out of position, enhancing both safety and comfort. 

Benefits of Tattooless Radiation Therapy with AlignRT:

  • No permanent skin marks or tattoos
  • Sub-millimeter accuracy in patient positioning
  • Real-time monitoring and automatic beam-hold for safety
  • Improved patient comfort and reduced treatment time

“Receiving the Tattooless Award from VisionRT reflects our commitment to treating the whole person, not just the disease,” says Dr. John Scott Moody, Medical Director of Radiation Oncology for Cone Health. “We are proud to offer technology that improves accuracy and safety while also honoring the emotional journey of our patients. Removing tattoos may seem small, but for many, it is a powerful step toward healing.”

Quick Access Links