IGRT: Procedure, Use-All You Need To Know

Overview

Due to the variations in organ filling or movements, while breathing, normal structures and malignancies can migrate between treatments. IGRT is radiation therapy that is guided by imaging equipment such as CT, ultrasonography, or stereoscopic X-rays taken in the treatment room right before the radiation is administered. Here we’ve discussed this advanced imaging technology and its applications, especially in prostate cancer treatment, in brief.

Why do you need IGRT?

Image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) is the practice of using imaging to guide the delivery of radiation therapy in order to increase the precision and accuracy of the treatment. IGRT is used to treat malignancies in moving parts of the body, such as the lungs. Radiation therapy devices include imaging technology that allows your doctor to see the tumor before and during treatment.

Which kind of equipment is required for IGRT?

Imaging equipment, such as a linear accelerator, is mounted on or built into the unit that administers radiation in IGRT. Imaging equipment may be installed in the medical treatment room as well. X-rays, computed tomography (CT), 3-D body surface mapping, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound are among the imaging technologies employed in IGRT (US). IGRT is sometimes accomplished via a detector in the room that measures motion by localizing markers on a patient's surface, or by electromagnetic transponders inserted within the patient.

Also, Read - Radiology: past, present and future

How is the OGRT procedure performed?

The patient is carefully positioned at the start of each radiation therapy session, guided by the marks on the skin indicating the treatment region. Devices may be utilized to assist the patient in maintaining the correct position. Then, images are taken using imaging equipment that is either installed in the treatment area or integrated into the radiation delivery unit.

Patients may need to hold their breath for 30 to 60 seconds during some IGRT treatments. If IGRT requires fiducial markers or electromagnetic transponders to be implanted inside the body, these will be placed with a needle about a week before the simulation process.

Depending on the type of IGRT employed, an x-ray, CT scan, or ultrasound will be obtained prior to therapy on each treatment day. To make position modifications, the physicians or radiation therapists evaluate the photos and compare them to the reference images produced during the simulation. The patient might be moved, and more imaging might be done. Each radiation therapy session is expected to last longer because of the lengthy image guidance process.

How can we help with the treatment?

If you are in search of radiology treatment in India, we will serve as your guide throughout your treatment and will be physically present with you even before it begins. The following will be provided to you:

• Opinions of expert physicians and surgeons
• Transparent communication
• Coordinated care
• Prior appointment with specialists
• Assistance with hospital formalities
• 24*7 availability
• Arrangements for travel
• Assistance for accommodation and healthy recovery
• Assistance in emergencies

Our team is dedicated to offering the highest quality health trip and care to our patients. We have a team of highly qualified and devoted health professionals that will be by your side from the beginning of your journey.