Tomotherapy

TomoTherapy is a radiation therapy system that combines a computed tomography (CT) scanner with a linear accelerator. This helical, or spiral, delivery of radiation allows for a precise and targeted dose of radiation to be delivered to cancerous tumors. The system's integrated imaging capabilities enable daily verification of the tumor's position before each treatment session, a process known as image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT). This feature helps to minimize radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissues, thereby reducing side effects.

The TomoTherapy platform is designed for a wide range of cancer types and treatment complexities. Its unique delivery method allows for treatments such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) to be performed with high accuracy. The machine's rotating gantry, which houses both the CT imaging components and the linear accelerator, moves in a helical pattern around the patient. This continuous motion allows for a highly conformal radiation dose to be sculpted to the shape of the tumor.

The system's software allows for sophisticated treatment planning, taking into account the patient's anatomy and tumor volume. The integrated imaging provides real-time feedback, allowing for adjustments to be made to the radiation beam if the patient has moved or if the tumor has shifted. This adaptive approach is a key feature of TomoTherapy, aiming to optimize treatment efficacy while preserving healthy organs and tissues. The technology has been implemented in cancer treatment centers worldwide since its introduction.