When facing a cancer diagnosis, choosing the right treatment is a crucial decision. Among the various treatment options available, radiation therapy is a common and effective method. Within radiation therapy, there are different techniques including tomotherapy and traditional radiation. Understanding the differences between these options can help you make an informed decision about your treatment plan.
What is Traditional Radiation Therapy?
Traditional radiation therapy, also known as conventional radiation, has been used for decades to treat cancer. This method involves directing high-energy X-rays or other particles at the cancerous area to destroy or damage cancer cells. Traditional radiation can be delivered in several ways, including:
External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): This is the most common form of radiation therapy, where a machine from outside the body is used to deliver radiation to the exact location of the tumor. EBRT is used to treat many types of cancer.
Internal Radiation Therapy: Internal Radiation Therapy, also known as brachytherapy, involves placing radioactive sources inside or near the tumor. This form of radiation therapy allows higher doses of radiation in a smaller area, which may not be possible with external beam radiation. It is used to treat breast, cervix and prostate cancers as well as cancers of the head and neck.
Systemic Radiation Therapy: Uses radioactive substances such as radioactive iodine or a radioactively labelled monoclonal antibody, which travel in the blood to locate and target cancer cells. Systemic Radiation Therapy is most often used to treat thyroid, prostate and bone cancers.
What is Tomotherapy Radiation?
Tomotherapy radiation is a more advanced form of radiation therapy that combines intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) with the precision of a CT scan. This technique allows for highly targeted radiation delivery, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. Here’s how tomotherapy works:
CT Scanning: Before each treatment session, a CT scan is performed to map the exact location of the tumor.
Helical Delivery: The radiation is delivered in a spiral (helical) pattern, allowing for continuous treatment and precise targeting.
Real-Time Imaging: Continuous imaging during treatment ensures that the radiation stays focused precisely on the tumor, even if it moves slightly between sessions.
Advantages of Tomotherapy Radiation
Precision: Tomotherapy’s real-time imaging and helical delivery allow for precise targeting of the tumor, reducing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues
Adaptability: The technology can adapt to changes in the tumor size and shape over the course of treatment.
Reduced Side Effects: Owing to the high degree of precision that tomotherapy offers, patients often experience fewer side effects when compared to traditional radiation.
Advantages of Traditional Radiation Therapy
Proven Effectiveness: Traditional radiation therapy has a long history of success in treating various types of cancer.
Availability: It is widely available and can be administered in most cancer treatment centres.
Cost-Effective: Generally, traditional radiation therapy can be less expensive than more advanced techniques like tomotherapy.
Which is Right for You?
Choosing between tomotherapy radiation and traditional radiation therapy depends on several factors, including the type and location of your cancer, your overall health, and your treatment goals. Here are some factors to consider when making this decision:
Type of Cancer: Certain cancers may respond better to one form of radiation over the other. For example, tumors located near sensitive structures may benefit from the precision of tomotherapy.
Treatment Goals: If minimizing side effects and preserving healthy tissue is a priority, tomotherapy may be the better option.
Availability and Cost: While tomotherapy offers advanced technology, it may not be available at all treatment centres and could be more expensive.
Consultation with Your Oncologist
The best way to determine the right treatment for you is through a detailed consultation with your oncologist. They can evaluate your specific case and discuss the benefits and potential drawbacks of each treatment option.
At Onco-Life Cancer Center, we offer both traditional radiation therapy and tomotherapy radiation, ensuring that our patients have access to the most advanced and appropriate treatments as per their individual needs. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalized care and helping you navigate your treatment options with confidence.
For more information on tomotherapy radiation and other treatment options, visit our website or contact us to schedule a consultation.
