Tomotherapy is a modern radiation therapy technique that combines the advantages of intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) with computed tomography (CT) imaging. This cutting-edge technology allows for highly precise and personalized treatment plans for cancer patients. In this article, we will delve into the details of Tomotherapy, including how it works, its benefits, and who may be a candidate for this treatment.
How Does Tomotherapy Work?
Tomotherapy involves the use of a machine that combines an IMRT linear accelerator with a CT scanner. This allows for the accurate delivery of radiation to the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. The CT scan is taken before each treatment session to ensure that the radiation beams are directed precisely to the tumor.
During treatment, the linear accelerator rotates around the patient, delivering radiation in small, precise “beamlets” from multiple angles. This allows for a highly conformal dose distribution, meaning that the tumor receives a high dose of radiation while the surrounding healthy tissue receives a much lower dose.
What are the Benefits of Tomotherapy?
One of the key benefits of Tomotherapy is its ability to deliver highly targeted radiation therapy with minimal exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. This can lead to reduced side effects and improved outcomes for patients.
In addition, Tomotherapy allows for a high degree of personalization in treatment planning. The CT imaging allows for precise targeting of the tumor, while the ability to adjust the intensity and direction of the radiation beams allows for a customized treatment plan tailored to each patient’s specific needs.
Who is a Candidate for Tomotherapy?
Tomotherapy can be used to treat a variety of cancers, including prostate, breast, lung, and head and neck cancers. It is often used for patients who have previously undergone radiation therapy or who have tumors in difficult-to-treat locations.
Your healthcare team will determine whether Tomotherapy is a suitable treatment option for you based on a variety of factors, including your cancer type, stage, and overall health.
Tomotherapy at Asian Cancer Institute
Asian Hospital and Medical Center does offer Tomotherapy as a treatment option for cancer patients. They have a specialized cancer center called the Asian Cancer Institute that provides comprehensive cancer care, including radiation therapy with Tomotherapy.
The Asian Cancer Institute at Asian Hospital and Medical Center has a team of highly trained radiation oncologists, medical physicists, and radiation therapists who are experienced in the use of Tomotherapy. They work together to develop personalized treatment plans for each patient, using advanced imaging technology to deliver highly precise and effective radiation therapy.
If you are interested in receiving Tomotherapy at the Asian Cancer Institute, you can schedule a consultation with an oncologist to discuss your options. They will evaluate your specific cancer type and stage, as well as your overall health and medical history, to determine if Tomotherapy is an appropriate treatment option for you.