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New System Offers Cutting-Edge
TomoTherapy delivers a more advanced form of intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) with such precision that surrounding, healthy tissue receives lower doses than delivered by more conventional radiation therapy. Less damage to surrounding tissue may result in fewer complications for patients. “In certain tumor sites, TomoTherapy provides optimal visualization and accuracy of patient positioning on a daily basis,” says Robert Goodman, M.D., Chairman of the Department of Radiation Oncology, which is part of The Cancer Centers of Saint Barnabas Medical Center. “This advanced localization of the tumor leads to more precise delivery of radiation treatment. It also provides potentially valuable information regarding tumor changes during a course of radiotherapy.”
CUSTOMIZED CARE Before beginning a TomoTherapy treatment, the physician uses 3-D images and special software to establish the precise contours for each tumor and any regions at risk, such as sensitive organs or structures. The physician decides how much radiation the tumor should receive, as well as acceptable levels for surrounding structures. The system then calculates the appropriate pattern, position, and intensity of the radiation beam to be delivered, to match the physician's prescription as closely as possible. For more information,
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The Department of Radiation Oncology at Saint Barnabas Medical Center is the first in New Jersey to offer TomoTherapy, a revolutionary new way to treat cancer with radiation. This new system optimizes radiation treatment and may significantly reduce side effects.
TomoTherapy, an advanced and integrated cancer treatment system, locates tumors before treatment; delivers precise treatment to tumors using rotating beamlets; and minimizes damage to healthy tissue. With the new system, the physician will check the location, then deliver precise radiation therapy based on a customized plan. TomoTherapy combines precise 3-D imaging from computerized tomography (CT scanning) with highly targeted radiation beams.
