Advanced Treatments for Different Types of Cancer

Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT)
One of the most advanced forms of cancer treatment, Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) utilizes computer-controlled x-ray accelerators to deliver precise radiation doses to a malignant tumor or specific areas of a tumor. The radiation dose is designed to conform to the shape of the tumor – focusing a high dose of radiation on the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding tissues.

With IMRT, higher and more effective radiation doses can safely be delivered to tumors with fewer side effects compared with conventional radiotherapy techniques.

High-dose-rate Brachytherapy –Temporary implants
High dose rate brachytherapy is termed temporary because the radioactive source does not remain within the body after the treatment, in contrast to permanent implants. A special applicator is used which is specific for each cancer. The applicator is placed within the tumor and the high dose rate machine moves a radioactive source through the tube to deliver dose from within the tumor. After a specified period of time within the tube the source retracts into the machine. The applicator may remain in place for 1-2 weeks, but patients are rarely aware of its presence due to custom fitting and placement. Often 2 to 3 separate treatments are done days apart. High dose rate treatment is most commonly used for gynecological cancers such as endometrial, vaginal , or cervix carcinoma. It is often combined with external beam radiation.

Low-dose-rate Brachytherapy (Radioactive Seed Implants)
Tiny radioactive seeds are implanted into the tumor. Radiation from the seeds then kills nearby cancer cells. One advantage of this type of treatment is that it is completed within one day, but the radiation continues to kill cancer cells for weeks or months. Permanent seed implants are commonly used for prostate cancer, and are commonly combined with external beam treatment (see Specialized Prostate Cancer Treatments  below)

Stereotactic Brain Implants
Using an external stereotactic device and advanced imaging technologies, radioactive implants can be precisely placed into the brain to destroy cancer cells in the brain. This technique is useful in recurrent adult brain tumors and does not require craniotomy (surgical opening of the skull).  The source is placed within a tiny catheter and passed through a small hole in the skull to the center of the tumor.