Forsyth Medical Center 
Cancer Treatments
Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy
| Forsyth Cancer Center was one of the first in the region to offer Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT), a state-of-the-art radiation delivery system that can treat tumors in sensitive, difficult to reach areas with new levels of accuracy. |
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IMRT is useful in treating tumors found in the following places:
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This treatment option allows radiation oncologists to use higher doses of radiation to treat the cancerous cells while protecting more of the surrounding healthy tissue compared to standard radiation therapy.
IMRT uses CT scans to create a three dimensional image of the tumor. Then a powerful, advanced computer program plans the precise dose of radiation to be delivered to all sides of the tumor.
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Do you have questions about therapeutic radiology? Visit our Health Library for answers. |
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The radiation dose is based on the tumor's size, shape and location. IMRT directs radiation at the tumor and varies the intensity of the radiation beams with the accuracy of a laser.
For some patients, IMRT replaces external beam treatments. However, in most cases, IMRT is used in conjunction with another primary treatment. Even if a patient has previously undergone conventional radiation treatment, IMRT may still be an option because its accuracy allows physicians to administer more than the maximum allowable dose of conventional radiotherapy, even at multiple locations.
