TomoTherapy (Next Generation Integrated Image-Guided Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy)

TomoTherapy is an emerging modality of Radiotherapy which controls and destroys malignant cells with high-intensity radiation. Unlike conventional system, it delivers radiation in a helical pattern, and is generally used for the management of malignant cells with uneven profile, or cases with lesions widely distributed throughout the whole body. The synchronized move of the 360 degree rotating gantry and the moving couch enables radiation to attack the malignant cells from different angles and in different intensities, thereby increasing accuracy in targeting the malignant cells, and minimizing the harm done on normal organs. The advanced configuration of TomoTherapy featuring MVCT is used to correct any positional discrepancy, which may be caused by a change in body shape, tumour shape and size, internal organ movement etc. This technique is called Adaptive Radiotherapy which is the hallmark of this machine. IGRT allows accurate radiation delivery, thereby reducing treatment margins and improving dose and tumour control. The combined use of the two technologies enhances precision in the treatment process and minimizes impact on healthy organs. Advantages Of TomoTherapy: High Precision Attack Of Cancer Cell: The combined use of MVCT and IGRT ensure patients are set upaccurately based on the internal anatomy on the day of treatment Minimise Exposure To Healthy Tissues Nearby: With radiation delivered in a helical pattern and from different angles, the impact on healthy tissues and side effects caused are reduced to the minimum level Non-Invasive Modality: It a painless procedureand is similar to having a Computed Tomography (CT) scan or an X-ray Faster Treatment Delivery: 66% faster in image acquisition and 18% faster in treatment delivery whencompared with the old technology More Versatile: With treatment range up to 135 cm, it can treat a wide range of cancer from a simple case, irregularly-shaped tumours, upto cases involving lesions that are widely disperse