Linear Precision
The Georgia Radiation Therapy Center recently treated its first patient using the latest linear accelerator technology, known as SmartBeam Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy.
“The goal of radiation therapy is to provide the maximum dose to the tumor, while mitigating the effect on normal cells. IMRT allows us to do this, focusing radiation on the tumor site and sparing healthy tissue,” said Dr. Chris Sheils, a radiation oncologist at the Georgia Radiation Therapy Center. “As a result, patients experience few, if any, side effects from the treatments.”
“The new technology basically acts as a GPS [global positioning system] for
the body,” adds Shawn Vincent, administrative director of the MCG Cancer Center.
“Treatment information, individualized to each patient, is uploaded into the
machine and enables more precise, focused radiation delivery to the tumor.”