IMRT Associated with Fewer Side Effects
The International Journal of Radiation Oncology Biology Physics includes an article in the current edition that notes the superior side effect profile of intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) for women with early stage breast cancer.IMRT delivers radiation treatment with multiple beamlets instead of one concentrated radiation beam. The intensity of each of the separate beams can be moderated. This delivery method allows radiation oncologists to more precisely guide radiation therapy based on the shape of a patient’s breast. This supports delivery of radiation therapy in a more uniform manner. This reduces side effects that result from hot spots, which occur with standard radiotherapy.
A study completed in Michigan compared the side effects of the two types of radiation therapy in a cohort of 172 female patients, all with early stage breast cancer (defined as stages 0 - IIB). Half were treated with standard, wedged-based RT and the other half underwent IMRT. Side effects of treatment, specifically changes in skin color and breast swelling, occurred less frequently in the IMRT group. The incidence of pain, however, was approximately the same.
Last month, brachytherapy for early stage breast cancer received the necessary coding for insurance billing as detailed on Hospital Buyer. That approach is designed to deliver radiation therapy only to malignant tissue while sparing healthy cells.
August 6, 2007 Related topics: Standards, Radiology, Hematology & Oncology