IMRT (Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy)
Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) is an advanced type of radiation therapy used to treat cancer and noncancerous tumors. IMRT uses advanced technology to manipulate photon beams of radiation to conform to the shape of a tumor using collimator leafs. Advanced software plans a precise dose of radiation, based on tumor size, shape and location. A computer-controlled device delivers the radiation in sculpted doses that match the 3-D geometrical shape of the tumor, including concave and complex shapes. The intensity of radiation beams can be adjusted across the treatment area in fractioned, separate beams as precision accuracy. This means higher doses of radiation can be delivered than traditional radiation therapy methods, while reducing exposure to healthy tissues. Because of its greater degree of accuracy, IMRT may be a treatment option for patients who have reached the maximum allowable dose of conventional radiation therapy and have a recurrent tumor in the treated area.
