3D Conformal Radiation Therapy

3D Conformal Therapy allows us to shape the radiation beam around the tumor and control the dose of radiation throughout the process to limit exposure to normal healthy tissues.  3D Conformal treatment involves the use of CT images (computed tomography) to construct a 3-dimensional, computer-generated recreation of the internal organs and the tumor. This allows the radiation oncologist to target the treatment area while minimizing side effects.

Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT)

IMRT involves the use of multiple high-energy x-ray beams to target the tumor. The radiation beams are calculated in advance as part of a patient specific treatment plan to deliver precise radiation while minimizing the dose to the normal surrounding tissues. The strength of the beams can be adjusted as neccessary depending on the size, location and stage of the cancer.

Image Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT)

IGRT is radiation treatment supported by enhanced graphic targeting. By targeting the treatment area using 2 and 3-D imagery, we can achieve better patient outcomes with fewer side effects.  This is particularly useful when addressing prostate, breast, lung, spine head/neck cancers and other sites in the body.  The clinician can retarget the treatment area daily to overcome any movement of internal organs as well as the size and shape of the cancer site.

RapidArc® Radiotherapy

RapidArc™ is a highly advanced system that targets radiation to the tumor site and completes the treatment in less time than conventional technology. The linear accelerator delivers precise doses of radiation as it rotates around the patient while the shape and intensity of the beam are simultaneously modulated.  Treatment accuracy is comparable to or better than standard IMRT plans and most treatments are delivered in under two minutes.  

CT Scanning & Simulation

CT Scanning is used to map the organs and structures within the body.  When a treatment plan is developed, a CT Simulation is necessary to acquire measurements and other technical data.  The patient is positioned on the CT scanner table where multiple scans are performed to generate a digital 3D reconstruction of the tumor area.  The information collected during simulation helps the radiation oncologist and other staff prepare and deliver the radiation

Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS)

Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS) is a specialized technique for radiation treatment that is effective for select brain tumors. This technique has such a dramatic reducing effect on the tumor that the post treatment results are considered "surgical". The procedure involves treating the tumor with focused beams of radiation using a high degree of precision in one to five treatments.  It also facilitates maximal protection of normal brain and nerve tissue.  For patients, this treatment is usually completed within one week allowing them to return to normal activity more quickly. (more information)

Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy

Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT) is a high-dose treatment for select cancers in the body delivered in one to five sessions.  This technique using focused radiation has such a dramatic reducing effect on the tumor, that the post treatment results are considered to be as effective as surgery.  SBRT is an effective alternative to invasive surgery for many cases, especially for tumors located close to vital structures that have been deemed inoperable.  It offers the flexibility to treat more tumors and allows higher doses to be safely delivered.  SBRT also permits re-treatment of cancer recurrence involving previously irradiated tumor sites. (moreinformation)

Calypso® 4D Localization System ("GPS for the Body")

The Calypso® 4D Localization System™ provides real-time tracking of the prostate during radiation treatment setup and delivery. It allows the clinician to leverage visual and audio cues to ensure accurate targeting of the treatment area so that adjustments can be made to offset any organ movement. Data is collected via implanted Beacon® electromagnetic transponders, which relay coordinates to the main display. Clinicians use the motion data to guide radiation therapy with sub-millimeter accuracy.

Respiratory Gating

Treating cancerous tumors, while avoiding exposure to normal healthy tissue, is the goal of radiation therapy. Respiratory Gating is a newer technology that allows the radiation treatment to be synchronized to an individual's breathing pattern, thus targeting the tumor only when it is in the best range for treatment. This is particularly important when treating lung and upper gastrointestinal tumors. By monitoring breathing through the treatment, the radiation oncologist can choose the best moment in a patient's breathing cycle to deliver the treatment.

3D Ultrasound Imaging

3D Ultrasound Imaging is an advanced, high-precision patient positioning system designed for radiation therapy delivery that is mostly used for prostate cancer patients. The system provides real-time 3D reconstruction of the planned target at time of treatment. The therapist positions the patient on the treatment couch using the treatment room lasers and acquires the patient’s target volume using 3D ultrasound imaging. Based on the obtained images, the therapist adjusts the treatment table so the patient actual treatment coordinates correspond to the treatment planning reference point.  Once the accuracy of the patient’s position is confirmed, the therapist turns on the beam to treat the patient.  The procedure is repeated for each scheduled treatment to ensure that the patient receives the prescribed dose to the intended target.