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Overview, Procedure, and Recovery
Tomotherapy is an advanced radiation treatment used to combat cancer. It combines 3D imaging of the cancerous area, precise patient positioning, treatment planning, and radiation delivery into a single integrated system. The procedure employs a Computed Tomography (CT) system and uses intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), which tailors radiation intensity to the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues.
Tomo Therapy
Tomotherapy can be used to treat tumors anywhere in the body.
Before starting tomotherapy, certain preparations may be required:
Accurate patient positioning is crucial for each tomotherapy session. Before treatment begins, a CT scan will be taken to verify the location of the tumor, as changes in tumor position, especially in tumors like prostate cancer, can occur daily. This ensures the radiation is directed accurately during each session.
The radiation delivery is done using intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) with a circular or spiral delivery pattern. This pattern ensures that radiation reaches the tumor from all sides, maximizing treatment precision while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.
During the procedure, you will lie on a couch that moves continuously through the equipment, while a rotating ring delivers radiation from 360 degrees around you. The radiation is delivered precisely as the couch moves through the gantry, ensuring the tumor is targeted from all angles.
Most side effects of tomotherapy subside once the treatment concludes. However, fatigue can last for four to six weeks after the final session. Additional rest is needed during this time as your body heals and regenerates. The skin in the treatment area may require extra care as it heals.
It’s important to note that some side effects may reappear months or even years after the treatment. It’s best to discuss recovery strategies and manage any recurring side effects with your doctor.
While the risks of tomotherapy are generally moderate and temporary, side effects can vary depending on the tumor’s size, location, radiation dosage, and the treatment plan. Common side effects include: