Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) takes greater advantage of the technological capabilities of our linear accelerators. Use of this advanced computerized technology enables our radiation therapists to deliver optimal doses of radiation to the tumor, while minimizing damage to healthy tissue. This technique specifies doses to the tumors and to selected normal structures. Our physicist develops a plan employing the 3-D treatment planning system and then optimizes the dose to the tumor and minimizes the dose to the normal structures.
During brachytherapy, sealed radioactive sources are temporarily or permanently implanted into the patient to deliver radiation directly to the tumor. Cancers treated with brachytherapy include those of the prostate, cervix, lung and breast. Brachytherapy is delivered at one of two dose rates, depending on the patient's diagnosis, stage and clinical considerations: high-dose (HDR) brachytherapy, which often allows treatment as an outpatient; and low-dose-rate brachytherapy, which requires a hospital admission.
The following Crozer-Keystone hospitals offer IMRT and brachytherapy:
Crozer-Chester Medical Center
One Medical Center Boulevard
Upland, PA 19013
Delaware County Memorial Hospital
501 North Lansdowne Ave.
Drexel Hill, PA 19026