Intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) enables the radiation oncologist to improve radiation targeting of tumors regardless of their size or shape. This improved targeting technique (not possible with conventional radiation) allows for a more lethal dose of radiation to attack the cancer (resulting in improved cure rates) without damaging nearby healthy tissue and organs, resulting in decreased side effects.

IMRT combines computerized linear accelerators, advanced planning and control software, and specialized mechanical devices, called multi-leaf collimators, that are used to shape or “sculpt” the radiation beams.

To assist in the IMRT process, Coborn Cancer Center is fortunate to have a “BAT system,” which stands for B-mode acquisition and targeting. The BAT is an ultrasound system that is connected to the treatment planning computers and is used to verify the exact location of a tumor or organ on a daily basis.

Because some organs or tumors are not stationary, such as a prostate, it is critical to know the exact location in order to accurately deliver a treatment. With traditional radiation treatment for prostate cancer, the entire pelvic area has to be radiated to treat this cancer, even though the prostate is about the size of a walnut. This often caused debilitating side effects. With IMRT, precise radiation beams can target just the prostate with higher, more effective doses of radiation to the tumor without harming the surrounding tissue such as the rectum.