Tomotherapy

Tomotherapy

Tomotherapy nci-vol-4478-300.jpg

Tomotherapy is an advanced form of radiation therapy used in the treatment of cancer. It combines intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) with computed tomography (CT) scanning technology to deliver precise radiation doses to a tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues.

History

Tomotherapy was developed in the 1990s by a team led by Dr. Thomas Rockwell Mackie at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. The first clinical use of tomotherapy was in 2003, and it has since become a widely used technique in oncology.

Technology

Tomotherapy machines integrate a linear accelerator with a helical CT scanner. This allows for the delivery of radiation in a spiral (helical) pattern, which can be more precisely targeted to the shape of the tumor. The CT scanner provides real-time imaging, enabling continuous monitoring and adjustment of the radiation dose.

Components

• Linear Accelerator: Produces high-energy X-rays or electron beams for radiation therapy.
• CT Scanner: Provides detailed images of the tumor and surrounding tissues.
• Treatment Planning System: Software used to design the optimal radiation dose distribution.

Procedure

The tomotherapy process involves several steps: 1. Imaging: A CT scan is performed to obtain detailed images of the tumor. 2. Treatment Planning: The images are used to create a customized treatment plan. 3. Radiation Delivery: The patient lies on a table that moves through the machine while the linear accelerator rotates around them, delivering radiation in a helical pattern.

Advantages

• Precision: The combination of IMRT and CT imaging allows for highly accurate targeting of the tumor.
• Reduced Side Effects: By minimizing radiation exposure to healthy tissues, tomotherapy can reduce the risk of side effects.
• Adaptive Therapy: The ability to perform daily imaging allows for adjustments to the treatment plan based on changes in the tumor size or position.

Applications

Tomotherapy is used to treat various types of cancer, including:

• Prostate cancer
• Breast cancer
• Lung cancer
• Head and neck cancer

Comparison with Other Techniques

Tomotherapy is often compared to other forms of IMRT and proton therapy. While each technique has its advantages, tomotherapy's unique combination of helical delivery and real-time imaging sets it apart.

Future Developments

Research is ongoing to further improve the precision and effectiveness of tomotherapy. Advances in imaging technology and treatment planning algorithms are expected to enhance its capabilities.

See Also

• Radiation therapy
• Intensity-modulated radiation therapy
• Computed tomography
• Linear accelerator
• Oncology