radiotherapy

3D Conformal Radiotherapy (3DCRT)

Unlike traditional 2D treatments, 3D Conformal Radiotherapy is a cancer treatment method that uses advanced computer software to precisely target tumors. Imaging technologies such as CT scans and MRIs are used to accurately determine the tumor’s shape and location. Specialized treatment planning software then adjusts radiation beams to deliver the highest possible dose to the tumor while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.

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Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT)

IMRT is an advanced and highly precise form of radiotherapy that uses computer-controlled linear accelerators to deliver accurate doses of radiation to a malignant tumor or specific areas within a tumor.

This method allows higher doses to be focused directly on the tumor while reducing exposure to nearby critical structures, thereby preserving the surrounding healthy tissue.

Cancer Treatment Process Using IMRT:

A medical linear accelerator generates the photons or X-rays used in IMRT. The machine is about the size of a small car. During treatment, the patient lies down while the radiation beam intensity dynamically adjusts based on the treatment plan. The patient does not feel anything when the radiation is active but may hear machine sounds, notice indicator lights, or detect the smell of electronics. These are completely normal. The patient remains alone in the room during treatment but is continuously monitored by a specialist from outside.

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Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS)

SRS is a highly precise treatment technique used to avoid damage to healthy brain tissue from high-energy radiation. If the tumor is in an accessible location, SRS can be used as an alternative to surgery.

Instead of surgically removing the tumor, linear accelerators deliver focused high-energy beams directly to the targeted area. These beams destroy the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from growing and dividing.

The main advantage of SRS is its exceptional accuracy and minimal damage to healthy tissue surrounding the tumor.

SRS is typically used to treat small, well-defined tumors in the brain, spine, or other specific parts of the body.

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Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT)

SBRT is one of the newest radiotherapy techniques, designed to treat malignant tumors in areas such as the lungs, liver, and kidneys. This method reduces the number of treatment sessions, providing a stronger therapeutic response in a shorter time.

SBRT is particularly effective in treating inoperable tumors or in patients who are not candidates for surgery due to health concerns.

Advantages of SBRT:

One of the main advantages of SBRT is its ability to deliver higher doses of radiation in each session.

This technique is particularly useful for patients with inoperable tumors, or for those who are not eligible for surgery due to health conditions.

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Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT)

VMAT is an advanced radiotherapy technique known for its high precision and ability to deliver intense radiation directly to the affected area.

It is commonly used in the treatment of malignant tumors such as lung, prostate, and breast cancers.

In this method, high-energy radiation beams are delivered in a continuous arc around the tumor.

As a result, there is less need to reposition the patient repeatedly, making the treatment process more efficient and comfortable.

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Cone Beam CT (CBCT)

The CBCT imaging system integrated into the linear accelerator uses lower-energy radiation than therapeutic beams and produces detailed 3D images of bones and soft tissues.

The linear accelerator in the Salamat Farda Radiotherapy Department is equipped with CBCT technology.

This system allows the medical team to capture three-dimensional images of the patient before each radiotherapy session.

Benefits of CBCT imaging include:

Reduced treatment margins for greater accuracy

The ability to monitor tumor size changes during the course of treatment