Authors' objectives: This report aims to summarise the available evidence on the use of intensity-modulated radiation therapy in the treatment of cancer.

Authors' recommendations: Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) is an advanced form of three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy. In such approaches, the high-dose region is conformed more closely to the target volume during radiotherapy than was previously possible. The volume of normal tissue receiving a high dose is thereby reduced. IMRT delivers spatially non-uniform radiation exposure to the patient and a uniform dose to the tumor. Treatment planning for IMRT is computationally complex, as consideration must be given to the number of beams and the range of beam weights. IMRT has been applied to the treatment of several types of cancer, including malignancies in the prostate, head and neck and colon. A recent report from the William Beaumont Hospital, Michigan drew attention to the use of IMRT in treatment of breast cancer. The hospital is one of seven sites worldwide that is using the technology in that application. In addition to reducing side effects from radiation treatment, IMRT was said to be more accurate than conventional radiotherapy approaches.

Authors' methods: Overview

Project Status: Completed

Year Published: 2000

URL for published report: https://www.ihe.ca/advanced-search?type=1020

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: Canada

Organisation Name: Institute of Health Economics

Contact Address: 1200, 10405 Jasper Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, T5J 3N4. Tel: +1 780 448 4881; Fax: +1 780 448 0018;

Contact Name: djuzwishin@ihe.ca

Contact Email: djuzwishin@ihe.ca

Copyright: Alberta Heritage Foundation for Medical Research (AHFMR)