Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy

A urologist can determine if intensity-modulated radiation therapy is right for your type of tumor and stage of cancer.

Tumors in the prostate and other parts of the urinary system are sometimes small enough to be treated successfully with radiation therapy.

Radiation therapy may be recommended by a urologist in situations where surgery to remove a tumor isn’t possible or advisable.
Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) is an alternative to traditional radiation delivery.

Overview of IMRT

IMRT reduces radiation exposure risks

Radiation targets tumors more precisely

Treatment focuses on affected tissues

An alternative to traditional radiation delivery, which can present certain exposure risks for patients, is intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). It’s a form of radiation therapy intended to minimize radiation exposure while still targeting the tumor and affected tissues.

What is Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy?

IMRT is an approach to delivering radiation to malignant tumors that uses computer-controlled devices to target certain areas of a tumor.

The radiation doses are administered in a way that conforms to the shape of the tumor.

Computer-controlled technology targets specific areas of the tumor.

Higher doses of radiation can be delivered safely.

Radiation can be delivered with greater frequency.

Treatment sessions are typically shorter.

IMRT provides greater accuracy when targeting cancerous tissues.

How Does IMRT Work?

Radiation is delivered at varying angles.

The tumor is targeted with greater intensity.

Equipment is controlled from a protected area.

Doctors monitor the procedure from a screen.

Computerized dose calculations are based on results from CT scans, X-rays, PET scans, and/or MRI images. The computer will be adjusted so the pattern of radiation delivered matches the size and shape of the tumor, which reduces the risk of damage to healthy tissues.

Preparing for Treatment

A simulation test is usually performed first.

X-ray imaging helps define treatment areas.

Permanent ink marks the treatment location.

Test results help determine treatment sessions.

A simulation test is usually done first. It involves the use of a special X-ray machine that’s used while the patient remains still on a table so the treatment area can be better defined. Colored, permanent ink is used to clearly mark the treatment area. Results from the simulation test along with the patient’s medical history and the results from image tests and lab tests will be used to determine how many sessions to recommend and how to set the computer to deliver the radiation doses.

After Treatment and Benefits

What Happens After IMRT

Patients can return to their normal activities following IMRT. There is no need to rest or take special precautions. Patients will not be radioactive, so there is also no need to avoid people or refrain from personal contact.

Benefits of IMRT

Radiation therapy is a common treatment recommendation for patients with prostate cancer, gynecologic cancer, or a tumor that’s localized in the urinary system. The potential risks associated with traditional radiation therapy come from prolonged exposure to the radiation that’s necessary to kill cancer cells. With IMRT, possible benefits include improved precision of radiation delivery, higher radiation doses with fewer side effects, and reduced treatment toxicity.

Treatment Schedule and Follow-Up

Sessions normally take place five days a week for several weeks, and each application takes about 15-30 minutes. Once a treatment schedule is set, it’s important not to miss sessions. Follow-up examinations are usually done after IMRT sessions to confirm that all affected tissues have been successfully treated, and potential side effects are generally mild and temporary.