In recent times, remarkable technological advancements have revolutionized radiation therapy, enabling the delivery of precise and accurate treatments. This progress offers a tangible pathway for individuals diagnosed with cancer to consider radiation therapy as a potential curative solution.
Introduction
Since the 20th century, radiation has played an increasing role in both diagnosing and treating cancer. While early radiation therapies were known to harm healthy tissue alongside cancer cells, advancements in technology have paved the way for precise and accurate therapy, offering a potential cure for cancer patients.
The evolution from initial techniques to today’s advanced methods has significantly impacted treatment outcomes and safety.
Throughout the years, efforts have been dedicated to developing innovative radiotherapeutic tools capable of effectively treating deep-seated cancers. This era witnessed the introduction of cobalt teletherapy, offering high-energy gamma rays, and more potent electron linear accelerators capable of delivering megavoltage X-rays.
The inaugural cobalt therapy system in South East Asia was established at our institute in 1956, followed by the installation of the country’s first linear accelerator in 1976. Presently, we operate three linear accelerators, with a fourth set to replace an existing one later this year. Additionally, we take pride in employing the domestically manufactured linear accelerator “Siddharth 2.”
The new millennium saw the affirmation of the stereotactic radiation therapy and the introduction of adaptive therapy. Stereotactic body radiotherapy has been practised at the institute for the past few years. Proper case selection and precise treatment execution are the main focus in SBRT. SBRT delivers extremely precise intense doses of radiation to cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. It involves the use of sophisticated image guidance that shows the exact location of the tumors so that the radiation can be more precisely delivered. SBRT is usually used to treat small early stage lung cancer, pancreatic cancer or cancers that have spread to the lung, liver, adrenal gland or spine.
Coventional radiation typically is delivered in relatively small doses each day over several weeks. By contrast, SBRT can be given in five or fewer daily sessions and completed. do little changes
Services
- External beam therapy
- Conventional treatment planning
- Conventional treatment with shapers
- 3D CRT
- IMRT
- Rapid arc therapy
- SBRT
- Total body radiation
- SRT / ELECTRON
- Brachytherapy applications
Academic/Education activities
Students, courses/training programs conducted routinely