What is RapidArc?

What is RapidArc?

RapidArc radiotherapy technology, produced by Varian Medical Systems, is an extremely fast and precise form of image-guided, intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT). Image guidance improves tumor targeting. IMRT shapes the radiation dose so that it conforms closely to the 3D shape of your tumor.

Does IGRT affect healthy cells?

IGRT may involve a variety of 2-D, 3-D and 4-D imaging techniques to position your body and aim the radiation so that your treatment is carefully focused on the tumor in order to minimize harm to healthy cells and organs nearby.

When is Vmat used?

What is VMAT used for? VMAT is particularly useful for delivering radiation therapy to tumours near sensitive body organs, and can be an effective treatment for many types of cancer.

When do you use IGRT?

IGRT is used to treat all types of cancer, but it’s particularly ideal for tumors and cancers located very close to sensitive structures and organs. IGRT is also useful for tumors that are likely to move during treatment or between treatments.

Is the RapidArc technique effective for prostate cancer patients?

At Rigshospitalet, the RapidArc technique was brought into clinical practice in May 2008 for treatment of prostate cancer patients. We report here our experiences with performing treatment planning using the Eclipse RapidArc optimization software for this patient group.

Are RapidArc treatment plans better than IMRT?

Results: Overall, the RapidArc treatment plans gave better or equal sparing of the organs at risk than the IMRT treatment plans. The number of monitor units was lower in most cases, by up to approximately 75%. However, the target dose homogeneity was not as high as for IMRT.

What is Varian RapidArc?

Purpose: Recently, Varian Medical Systems have announced the introduction of a new treatment technique, RapidArc, in which dose is delivered over a single gantry rotation with dynamically variable MLC positions, dose rate and gantry speed.