IMRT
Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) is an advanced and highly precise radiation therapy technique used to treat cancer.
Purpose:
- IMRT is designed to deliver radiation therapy with a high degree of accuracy, conforming closely to the shape of the tumor while sparing nearby healthy tissues.
- It is particularly effective for complex-shaped tumors or those located near critical structures.
Benefits:
- Enhanced precision: IMRT's ability to conform the radiation dose to the tumor's shape maximizes the therapeutic effect while minimizing damage to nearby healthy organs and tissues.
- Reduced side effects: By sparing critical structures, IMRT can significantly reduce the risk of radiation-related side effects.
- Improved tumor control: The ability to deliver a higher radiation dose precisely to the tumor often leads to better local tumor control.
Common Uses:
- IMRT is widely used for various cancer types, including prostate, head and neck, brain, lung, and gastrointestinal cancers.
- It is especially valuable when tumors are located in areas with complex shapes or near organs at risk.
Treatment Planning:
- Creating an IMRT treatment plan involves careful delineation of the tumor and surrounding normal structures using advanced imaging (such as CT or MRI).
- Medical physicists and dosimetrists work closely with radiation oncologists to develop individualized treatment plans.
- The treatment plan specifies the intensity and angle of each radiation beam to achieve the desired dose distribution.
