Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) uses computers to explore thousands of possible treatment options and to control the delivery of clinically optimized treatment. This technology maximizes tumor control while minimizing potentially adverse side effects in surrounding tissue.
Beaumont has been a leader in IMRT since 1994. Since then, we've developed innovative treatment protocols and procedures to treat several types of cancer, including
breast
,
prostate
,
brain
,
head and neck
,
thoracic, gynecologic
, and gastrointestinal. In fact, Beaumont was the first to use Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy to routinely treat patients with early stage breast cancer and hospitals around the world now use Beaumont's treatment technique to optimize radiation plans and reduce treatment toxicity.
What is IMRT?
With IMRT, a computer-controlled linear accelerator will deliver incredibly precise doses of radiation to a tumor. By modulating (controlling) the intensity of the radiation beam (treating the patient with many small beams with different intensities, instead of a uniform beam), the radiation is better able to conform to the 3D shape of the tumor, which allows for a higher dose to be delivered to the tumor while sparing healthy surrounding tissue or organs. The treatment is carefully planned with simulation.
What can I expect with IMRT?
Because the treatment is so precisely targeted on the tumor (and not healthy tissue), there are fewer
side effects from IMRT than conventional radiation therapy. It may require slightly longer treatment times because of the complexity of the treatment.