Radiation Therapy Patient Information

When diagnosed with cancer, patients of course want to be sure they receive the best possible care. That’s why Alliance Oncology works with physicians, hospitals, and other healthcare providers around the country to facilitate the use of the latest technologies and techniques. We are dedicated to ensuring that our physician-partners have both the tools and the knowledge they need to care for you or your loved one.

Two recent breakthroughs include intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and image guided radiation therapy (IGRT).

Typically, oncology treatment includes the use of a beam of radiation which is applied to the affected area. Over the years the delivery method of this beam has changed, however. In the past, it was delivered in rectangular form, regardless of the shape of the tumor. IMRT represents an important breakthrough in this area. IMRT enables radiation to be delivered in a customized shape and intensity to more specifically address a tumor’s size and thickness, helping to minimize radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.

Used in conjunction with IMRT, IGRT has the added advantage of tracking tumor movement during treatment, and adjusting accordingly to provide more precise radiation delivery. IMRT and IGRT are used to treat cancers of the lung, prostate, head and neck, and breast – areas where tumor movement most often occurs.

With the help of these and other technologies, Alliance Oncology’s partnering physicians are better equipped to ensure the treatment you or your loved one receives includes the very latest medical advancements.

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