Radiation Oncology
The Radiation Oncology Department at Innovis Health Cancer Center offers a variety of services. Services available include:
- 3D Conformal External Beam Radiation Therapy
- Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT)
- Brachytherapy (Implants)
- B-mode Acquisition and Targeting (BAT)
- Prostate Seed Implantation
There are two principal methods for delivering external beam radiation therapy. These two methods are 3D conformal and intensity modulated radiation therapy.
3D Conformal External Beam Radiation Therapy
3-dimensional confromal radiation therapy combines multiple radiation treatment fields to deliver precise doses of radiation to the treatment area. Tailoring each of the radiation beams to accurately focus on the patient’s tumor allows coverage of the cancer while at the same time keeping radiaton away from nearby organs.
Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT)
IMRT is the most recent in the delivery of radiation. This state-of-the-art technology is designed to shape a radiation dose to the contour of a tumor while minimizing the impact on surrounding healthy tissue or organs. It is the newest innovation in cancer treatment. The IMRT technique allows more precise adjustment of radiation doses to the tissues within the target area and reduces doses to nearby normal tissues. This translates to a greater chance for cure, with fewer side effects. IMRT is very useful for head, neck, brain and prostate cancer. IMRT has the flexibility to treat other cancers.
Brachytherapy
Brachytherapy delivers high doses of radiation in or around a tumor by implanting a radioactive source in a body cavity or tissue. The type of implant depends on the size and location of the tumor. For example, small radioactive seeds are placed in the prostate gland to treat prostate cancer. Our radiation oncologist has the ability to do brachytherapy implants.
B-mode Acquisition and Targeting System (BAT)
This system is used for specific localization and allows the therapist to accurately pinpoint organs that move, such as the prostate, through the use of a daily ultrasound. BAT ultrasound identifies the position of targeted structures on a day-to-day, treatment-to-treatment basis, thus focusing more on the tumor and reducing risk to healthy tissue. BAT is considered revolutionary, quick, easy and stress free by therapists and patients.
Back to: Innovis Health Cancer Center