3-D Conformal Radiation Therapy

3-Dimensional Conformal Therapy allows us to shape the radiation beam around the tumor therby limiting exposure to normal healthy tissues.  3-D Conformal Therapy involves the use of Computer Tomography (CT) images to construct a 3-D, computer-generated re-creation of the internal organs and the tumor. This allows the radiation oncologist to target the treatment area while minimizing side effects.

Computer Tomography (CT) Scanning & Simulation

Computer Tomography (CT) Scanning is used to map the organs and structures within the body.  When a treatment plan is developed, a CT Simulation is necessary to acquire measurements and other technical data.  The patient is positioned on the CT scanner table where multiple scans are performed to generate a digital 3-D reconstruction of the tumor area.  The information collected during simulation helps the radiation oncologist and other staff prepare and deliver the radiation.

Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT)

Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) involves the use of multiple high-energy x-ray beams to target the tumor. The radiation beams are calculated in advance as part of a patient specific treatment plan to deliver precise radiation while minimizing the dose to the normal surrounding tissues. The strength of the beams can be adjusted as neccessary depending on the size, location and stage of the cancer.

Image Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT)

Image Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT) is a radiation treatment supported by enhanced graphic targeting. By targeting the treatment area using 2 and 3-D imagery, we can achieve better patient outcomes with fewer side effects.  This is particularly useful when addressing prostate, breast, lung, spine, head/neck cancers and other sites in the body.  The clinician can retarget the treatment area daily to, not only to overcome any movement of internal organs, but also to adjust for the change in size and shape of the cancer.

Respiratory Gating

Treating cancerous tumors, while avoiding exposure to normal healthy tissue, is the goal of radiation therapy. Respiratory Gating is a newer technology that allows the radiation treatment to be synchronized to an individual's breathing pattern, thus targeting the tumor only when it is in the best range for treatment. This is particularly important when treating lung and upper gastrointestinal tumors. By monitoring breathing through the treatment, the radiation oncologist can choose the best moment in a patient's breathing cycle to deliver the treatment.

Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS)

Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) is a specialized technique for radiation treatment that is effective for select brain tumors. This technique has such a dramatic reducing effect on the tumor that the post treatment results are considered "surgical". The procedure involves treating the tumor with focused beams of radiation using a high degree of precision in one to five treatments.  It also facilitates maximal protection of normal brain and nerve tissue.  For patients, this treatment is usually completed within one week allowing them to return to normal activity more quickly.

Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy

Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) is a high-dose treatment for select cancers in the body delivered in one to five sessions.  This technique using focused radiation has such a dramatic reducing effect on the tumor, that the post treatment results are considered to be as effective as surgery.  SBRT is an effective alternative to invasive surgery for many cases, especially for tumors located close to vital structures that have been deemed inoperable.  It offers the flexibility to treat more tumors and allows higher doses to be safely delivered.  SBRT also permits re-treatment of cancer recurrence involving previously irradiated tumor sites.