What is TomoTherapy?
TomoTherapy is an advanced cancer treatment method that uses radiation to destroy or
shrink tumors. It combines the accuracy of intensity-modulated radiotherapy
(IMRT) with the real-time accuracy of CT scans (also known as image-guided
radiotherapy or IGRT).
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- Confirm the exact location of cancer in your body.
- Shows whether your tumor has changed size or location since the last treatment.
- Let your care team ensure that there is no need to modify your current radiation plan.
What
is the purpose of TomoTherapy?
Due to its accuracy and ability to adjust
radiation dose, TomoTherapy® is very suitable for tumors that are difficult to
reach or near important organs. It is commonly used to treat prostate cancer,
breast cancer, lung cancer, brain cancer, and cancers of other structures in the
head or neck. In addition, it can treat multiple tumors at once.
TomoTherapy also reduces the long-term side
effects of "radiation retreatment" or reradiation. This is the second
time radiotherapy has been used to treat recurring cancer.
Benefits
of TomoTherapy
All types of radiation therapy will kill
cancer cells. But TomoTherapy offers many advantages. These include:
- Real-time monitoring of tumor location and size.
- More targeted radiation can affect your tumor.
- Higher doses of radiation are sent to the tumor, which may increase the effectiveness of the treatment.
- The amount of radiation is significantly reduced, reaching healthy organs and tissues next to the tumor. This helps reduce side effects and long-term complications.
TomoTherapy
treatment expectations
Tomotherapy treatment in India, Your
Mercy care team will make sure you understand what to expect before, during, and
after TomoTherapy treatment. E.g:
Some patients need tiny tattoos on their
skin. These markers can help your care team align the radiation equipment with
the treatment area.
You may also need to use custom molding
equipment. It will help you get into the same position before each treatment
and stay still during the treatment.
As with all radiation therapy techniques,
TomoTherapy may cause temporary side effects. These usually include fatigue and
skin changes (such as redness, itching, or peeling). You may also have side
effects in specific parts of your body that are exposed to radiation. For
example, if your cancer is in your mind, you may experience headaches, hair
loss, or dry eyes.
Like any medication, TomoTherapy brings
immediate or long-term risks. Our team will ensure that you fully understand
the situation before starting treatment. If your doctor recommends this
treatment, it is because he or she believes the benefits outweigh the risks.
Your care team will carefully plan your treatment to ensure it is safe and
effective.
