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A radiation oncologist with a patient

IMRT, or intensity-modulated radiation therapy, is a type of cancer treatment in which precisely shaped beams of radiation are directed at a solid tumor. Before IMRT is administered, three-dimensional images of a tumor are taken and evaluated by a multispecialty team. Exact coordinates are then entered into advanced software used to program a linear accelerator (a machine that delivers radiation therapy from outside the body). Once the planning and simulation phase is complete, a radiation therapist uses the linear accelerator to deliver precisely sculpted doses of radiation to the tumor, accounting for its unique size and shape.

IMRT is especially useful in the treatment of unusually shaped tumors, as well as those that are situated extremely close to vital organs (and therefore have an increased likelihood of producing side effects if the nearby healthy tissues sustain damage during treatment). By using IMRT, oncologists are able to:

  • Increase the amount of radiation delivered to a tumor to the maximum level prescribed, potentially improving the likelihood of destroying all cancerous cells
  • Reduce the amount of radiation exposure sustained by other nearby tissues and organs, in turn minimizing side effects and improving quality of life

Not only does Moffitt offer some of the most advanced technologies in the field, including IMRT, but we also have a highly skilled team of specialists who ensure that our tools are used to the maximum benefit of each patient. Each individual who comes to Moffitt for radiation therapy works with a comprehensive team of experts, including radiation oncologists, radiation therapists, dosimetrists and medical physicists who have extensive experience in treating a single, specific type of cancer. This allows us to maximize the benefits of our advanced technologies, routinely achieving excellent treatment results and high quality of life outcomes.

To learn more about IMRT or any of the other advanced treatments offered at Moffitt, call 1-888-663-3488 or submit a new patient registration form online. No referral is required to make an appointment.