3 Dimensional Conformal Radiotherapy with Rapidarc

RapidArc, Volumetric Intensity-Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT) is an irradiation method that can perform intensity-modulated radiotherapy very rapidly under the guidance of imaging methods. After this device first received FDA approval in the United States in January 2008, it began to be widely preferred in good oncology centers worldwide. Treatment time with RapidArc is relatively short compared with other devices doing the same work. In RapidArc, imaging takes less than 2 minutes; when an irradiation time of 2-3 minutes is added, the entire daily treatment ends in a total of approximately 4 minutes. In this technique, performed by rotating the device around the patient in one or more circles, the tumor is irradiated more precisely and at a higher dose while neighboring normal tissues are protected to a high degree. Another advantage of Rapidarc over other devices capable of intensity-modulated radiotherapy is that it delivers fewer monitor units, minimizing the possibility of secondary cancer that may develop, although rarely, due to radiotherapy.

Prominent features of Rapidarc

To describe the features of Rapidarc, which is itself a linear accelerator (LINAC), it is necessary to briefly become familiar with other state-of-the-art linear accelerator devices. The x-rays produced by linear accelerators used as standard in radiotherapy in recent years are applied to the diseased area within a specific treatment plan.

With conventional radiotherapy devices, patients find it difficult to lie still for such a long time. Patients have particular difficulty lying still as the side effects of treatment increase; organ movements caused by pain and coughing during the session can make the procedure difficult. The same situation also applies to pediatric patients. In these situations, Rapidarc can improve patient comfort because treatment time is short.

How Is the Procedure Performed?

The patient lies on the bed section of the device. Irradiation is performed while the moving part of the device rotates around the patient. The irradiation procedure is completed without allowing time for the patient to move.

For Which Types of Cancer Is It Used?

This technology can be used in all types of cancer and in all patients receiving radiotherapy.