Radiation delivered from outside the body
A treatment machine aims carefully calculated high-energy radiation at the planned treatment area. The number and schedule of visits are individualized.
Patrick Linson, MD, MPH
Radiation Treatments
Modern radiation techniques tailored to each patient.
Radiation treatments
Precision where it matters.
Care that sees the whole person.
The general treatment process includes simulation, individualized planning, careful positioning and verification. The techniques below describe different ways radiation may be delivered. The approach used for an individual patient depends on the diagnosis, anatomy, health and treatment goals; availability and Dr. Linson’s role should be confirmed with the care team.
Matched to anatomy and depth
Three-dimensional conformal therapy shapes beams to the treatment area. Electron therapy may be useful for selected cancers close to the skin surface.
Precisely shaped dose
IMRT adjusts the intensity of multiple radiation beams. VMAT delivers an IMRT plan while the machine moves around the patient, shaping dose to the target while limiting exposure to nearby organs.
Imaging-guided accuracy
Image-guided radiation therapy uses images taken in the treatment room to confirm positioning and, when needed, account for internal movement or changes before radiation is delivered.
Highly focused treatment
SBRT delivers highly focused radiation to selected body tumors in a small number of treatments. SRS uses similar precision for selected brain or intracranial targets.
Radiation delivered inside the body
Across Scripps, some conditions may be treated with radiation placed in or near a target or with radioactive medicine. Availability and whether these approaches are appropriate should be confirmed with the care team.