An overview of Image Guided Radiation Therapy
Image Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT) is a type of radiation therapy that uses imaging techniques to plan and target treatment more accurately. It is performed before each radiation therapy session to ensure precision and accuracy in delivering radiation to the cancerous or targeted area. IGRT uses 2D, 3D, or 4D imaging techniques to minimize damage to surrounding healthy cells and organs. It is the standard of care for radiation therapy treatment and can be used for various types of cancer and non-cancerous tumors.
What is Image Guided Radiation Therapy used for?
IGRT is used for cancer treatment to increase the accuracy and precision of radiation therapy. It uses high-quality images taken before each treatment session to locate the cancer and sensitive organs. By enabling higher doses of radiation, IGRT can potentially result in more effective treatment and shorter schedules while minimizing harm to healthy cells and organs. It is particularly useful for tumors and cancers located close to sensitive structures and organs, as well as those likely to move during or between treatments.
How is Image Guided Radiation Therapy conducted?
During an IGRT test, high-quality images are taken before each radiation therapy session to increase the accuracy and precision of the treatment. These images are compared to previous ones to adjust the treatment accordingly. IGRT involves various 2D, 3D, and 4D imaging techniques, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI, to position the body and aim the radiation at the cancer while minimizing damage to nearby healthy cells and organs.
Understanding the report
During IGRT, images taken before each treatment session help plan and deliver radiation therapy more accurately. The images are compared to previous ones to determine if the cancer has moved, and the treatment is adjusted accordingly. The radiation therapy team interprets the results of IGRT to ensure precise targeting of the cancer while minimizing damage to healthy tissue.