 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
||||
|
|
IMRT
|
IMRT is a new, more precise type of radiation therapy.
Traditional radiation employs a flat beam that targets
the cancerous tumor, but because of the irregular shape
of tumors, healthy surrounding tissue can be damaged as
well. IMRT takes advanced radiation therapy a step further,
allowing doctors to more precisely attack all parts of
irregularly shaped tumors - thereby reducing the risk of
injury to healthy tissue while allowing the dose to the
cancerous cells to be increased.
Learn more about:
Using 3-D imaging, the computerized IMRT system sends out several small radiation beams to targeted tumor sites from multiple angles. IMRT uses advanced mathematics to create an intensity-modulated beam that instantly adapts to the irregular shape of the tumor and preserved the surrounding healthy tissue. back to top Is IMRT right for every patient? As with any treatment, patients need to discuss each option with their personal physician. Studies have shown that IMRT is well tolerated in most patients. back to top What are the benefits of IMRT? Patient benefits include higher, more direct radiation doses and fewer side effects. In the case of prostate cancer, this can save the gland, minimizing the risk of post-treatment impotence. In addition, clinical evidence shows that higher radiation doses have a positive effect on survival rates. Studies indicate that higher radiation doses for treatment of prostate cancer lead to greater likelihood of tumor control. IMRT allows us to increase the dose of radiation with fewer complications. back to top How long does it take? IMRT is performed on an outpatient basis. Each treatment takes 15 minutes.. While the number of sessions may vary, most patients receive an average of 45 treatments over several weeks. back to top Who gives this treatment? The IMRT team includes Saint Raphael’s radiation technologists, physicists, dosimetrists and physicians. back to top Can IMRT be used to treat other types of cancer? It’s expected that IMRT will eventually be used on brain, head, neck, and other tumors, as well. back to top For more information, contact cancerinfo@srhs.org. |
Back to Previous Page