IMRTi

IMRTi is a cutting-edge technology in the field of radiation therapy, specifically designed for the treatment of prostate cancer. It stands for Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy with Image Guidance. The primary goal of IMRTi is to deliver a highly precise and conformal dose of radiation to the prostate gland while minimizing the dose to surrounding healthy tissues.

The technology combines the principles of intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) with advanced image guidance techniques. IMRT allows for the creation of complex radiation dose distributions by modulating the intensity and shape of the radiation beam in real-time. This enables the delivery of a highly conformal dose to the target volume, sparing adjacent organs at risk (OARs) such as the rectum, bladder, and femoral heads.

Image guidance, typically using real-time imaging techniques like cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), is integrated into the treatment process. This allows for continuous monitoring and adjustment of the patient's position and internal anatomy during the course of treatment. This is particularly important for prostate cancer patients, as the prostate gland can shift or deform during the course of radiation therapy.

IMRTi has been shown to improve treatment outcomes for prostate cancer patients by reducing the risk of treatment-related side effects, such as rectal bleeding and urinary incontinence, while maintaining or even improving local control and overall survival rates. The technology has been widely adopted in radiation oncology centers worldwide, and ongoing research continues to explore its potential benefits and optimal implementation strategies.