Ionihoitojen

Ionihoitojen, also known as ion therapy or proton therapy, is a type of radiation therapy used to treat cancer. It utilizes protons, which are positively charged subatomic particles, to deliver a precise dose of radiation to cancerous tumors. Unlike conventional X-ray radiation, protons deposit most of their energy at a specific depth within the body, known as the Bragg peak. This allows doctors to target tumors with great accuracy while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues and organs.

The treatment process typically involves a team of medical professionals, including radiation oncologists, medical physicists, and dosimetrists. Patients undergo imaging scans to precisely map the tumor's location. During treatment, the patient is positioned on a treatment table, and a machine called a cyclotron or synchrotron accelerates protons to high energies. These protons are then directed through a beamline and focused onto the tumor. Treatment sessions are usually short, lasting only a few minutes each, and are typically delivered daily over several weeks.

Ionihoitojen is particularly beneficial for treating cancers located near critical structures, such as in the brain, spine, and eyes, where preserving surrounding healthy tissue is paramount. It has shown promise in improving treatment outcomes and reducing side effects compared to traditional radiation techniques for certain types of cancer. However, it is a complex and costly treatment, and its availability may be limited. The decision to use ion therapy is made on a case-by-case basis, considering the specific cancer, its location, and the patient's overall health.