Professional Experience
Dr Aitken has held significant roles in both public and private healthcare settings, contributing to her expertise in clinical oncology.
- Current position: Consultant Clinical Oncologist at The Royal Marsden Hospital
- Specialisation: Radiotherapy for gastrointestinal and hepatopancreatobiliary cancers
- Private practice: Available for consultations at The Royal Marsden’s private care facilities
- Clinical supervision: Experienced in supervising advanced radiotherapy techniques including stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) and intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT)
Academic Contributions
Dr Aitken is actively involved in research and education within the field of clinical oncology.
- Research interests: Development and optimisation of radiotherapy techniques for GI and HPB cancers
- Publications: Authored multiple peer-reviewed articles on radiotherapy advancements
- Collaborations: Works closely with multidisciplinary teams at The Royal Marsden and the Institute of Cancer Research
Areas of Expertise
Dr Aitken’s clinical practice encompasses a range of oncological conditions, with a focus on advanced radiotherapy treatments.
- Conditions treated:
- Oesophageal cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Anal cancer
- Liver cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Advanced treatments:
- Stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR)
- Intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT)
- Image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT)
Publications and Research
Dr Aitken has contributed to various research initiatives aimed at enhancing radiotherapy efficacy in cancer treatment.
- ResearchGate profile: Published 34 articles with over 500 citations, focusing on radiotherapy advancements
- Key publications:
- “Technical Radiotherapy Advances – The Role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Guided Radiation in the Delivery of Hypofractionation”
- “When Less is More: The Rising Tide of Hypofractionation”
- “Stereotactic Ablative Body Radiotherapy for Locally Advanced Unresectable Pancreatic Cancer: Current Views of the Public and Professionals”
Patient Care Philosophy
Dr Aitken is dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centred care, ensuring that each individual receives personalised treatment plans.
- Approach: Emphasises clear communication, empathy, and shared decision-making
- International patients: Offers online consultations to accommodate patients from abroad
- Cultural sensitivity: Practices inclusive care, respecting diverse backgrounds and needs
Professional Affiliations
- Royal College of Radiologists: Fellow (FRCR)
- Royal College of Physicians: Member (MRCP)
- General Medical Council: Registered (GMC No. 6077348)
FAQs
- Is Dr Katharine Aitken board-certified?
- Yes, she is a Fellow of the Royal College of Radiologists (FRCR) and a Member of the Royal College of Physicians (MRCP).
- What types of cancers does she treat?
- Dr Aitken specialises in radiotherapy for oesophageal, colorectal, anal, liver, and pancreatic cancers.
- Does she treat international patients?
- Yes, Dr Aitken offers online consultations for international patients.
- How long is the typical hospital stay after treatment?
- The duration varies depending on the specific treatment plan; Dr Aitken provides personalised information during consultations.
- What languages does she speak?
- Dr Aitken primarily communicates in English.
- Can I request a second opinion?
- Yes, Dr Aitken welcomes second opinions and provides comprehensive evaluations.
- How can I book a consultation?
- Consultations can be booked through The Royal Marsden’s private care services or via Bupa Finder.
