Radiation Oncology Photo

IGRT: Image-Guided Radiation Therapy

Every and all treatments are performed under image-guidance. This means that we visualize the target tumor tissue before radiation is given. Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT) is a type of conformal radiation treatment guided by imaging techniques such as x-rays or CT scans taken just prior to treatment. Systems equipped with IGRT allow clinicians to detect tumor volumes on a daily basis and automatically reposition a patient if necessary. It ensures daily setup consistency without prolonging treatment times. High-resolution stereoscopic x-rays are acquired within the treatment room and compared to images taken for treatment planning to guarantee accurate patient setup. Patients will have infrared markers placed on their skin to monitor position from the beginning to the end of treatment, ensuring millimeter precision. The imager is mounted on the treatment machine via robotically controlled arms that move three-dimensionally. This imaging system uses its high-resolution digital imaging to improve tumor targeting. The imaging system is capable of multiple imaging modalities including 2D radiographic, fluoroscopic, or 3D cone-beam CT imaging.