Patient Care

3D conformal radiation therapy (3DCRT) uses three-dimensional scans to determine the exact shape and size of the tumor. Radiation beams are shaped by tiny metal leaves arranged to fit the tumor. This minimizes the side effects to healthy tissues. Several cancer types have seen improved outcomes from this including brain cancer, head and neck cancer, liver cancer, lung cancer and prostate cancer.

Intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) delivers multiple radiation beams directly on the tumor. Our team of experts uses special planning software to minimize dose to the surrounding normal tissues. This type of radiation is often used when the tumor is extremely close to surrounding normal organs.

Volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) uses multiple radiation beams of different intensities. As the treatment machine rotates, radiation is delivered at every angle. This focuses the highest dose of radiation on the tumor, while reducing radiation to healthy organs. VMAT can be used to treat several types of solid tumors, including prostate cancer, liver cancer and pancreatic cancer.

Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) has a narrower beam of radiation. It allows us to more precisely target the tumor. SBRT may be a good option for patients who are not candidates for surgery, and it can be used for a variety of cancer types, including lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, liver cancer, and cancers that have spread to the bones.

Brachytherapy involves radioactive material that is implanted in the body. Tiny radioactive “seeds” are placed at the tumor site with a special needle or catheter.  Your doctor will decide which type of seed to use and how long it will be inside your body. Often, this is done as an outpatient procedure. Brachytherapy is used for treatment of gynecological cancers including cervical, endometrial, and vaginal.

Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is not actually surgery. Instead, it uses dozens of tiny radiation beams to treat tumors in the head and neck with a single radiation dose. M Health Fairview uses the Gamma Knife® SRS system and the Edge by Varian®.

Surface Guided Radiation Therapy (SGRT) is used to improve the accuracy of radiation treatment alignment and delivery of radiation treatment. This technology allows your skin to remain unmarked; it is available at some of our locations. 

Deep inspiration breath hold (DIBH) is a radiation therapy technique where patients take a deep breath during treatment and hold this breath while the radiation is delivered. By taking a deep breath in, your lungs fill with air and your heart will move away from your chest. DIBH can be useful in situations where radiation therapy is necessary in the chest region, and it is desired to avoid radiation to the heart.