Image Guided Radiation Therapy
Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT) is a type of radiation therapy that uses imaging techniques, like CT scans or X-rays, to guide the delivery of radiation. This allows doctors to target tumors more precisely, adjusting for any movement or changes in the tumor’s position, which helps protect surrounding healthy tissues.
About Image Guided Radiation Therapy
Accuracy and Precision Every time
Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT) uses imaging techniques during radiation treatment to improve accuracy. Types of image guidance include CT scans, and X-rays which help pinpoint the exact location of the tumor prior to treatment delivery. It’s important because tumors and normal anatomy can shift slightly between daily treatments, and precise targeting reduces harm to surrounding healthy tissues and ensure delivery of the correct radiation dose to the right place at the right time. We use IGRT by taking images before or during treatment to make real-time adjustments if needed. This technology leads to better outcomes, allowing higher doses to the tumor while minimizing side effects.
Cone Beam CT
Cone beam CT (CBCT) is an imaging technique used during radiation therapy to create 3D images of the treatment area. It allows doctors to see the exact position of the tumor and surrounding tissues before each session, ensuring precise alignment. This helps improve accuracy and minimizes radiation exposure to healthy tissues, leading to better outcomes.
BrainLab
BrainLab’s technology integrates advanced imaging with radiation therapy to improve precision in targeting tumors. It provides real-time images and 3D mapping, allowing doctors to track the tumor’s position throughout treatment. This ensures that the radiation is delivered directly to the tumor while avoiding surrounding healthy tissue, making it a powerful tool in image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT).
Paired kV imaging
Paired kV imaging uses kilovoltage X-rays taken from two angles to provide highly detailed images of the treatment area during radiation therapy. This imaging helps accurately position the patient and target the tumor by comparing daily images with the original treatment plan. It plays a key role in ensuring that radiation is delivered precisely, improving both accuracy and patient outcomes.