| We are committed to staying on the cutting edge of lifesaving technologies. We invest millions in equipping our facility, and are frequently the first in the region to acquire new state-of-the-art innovations. Below are some of the capabilities and equipment available at the Cancer Treatment Center. Brainlab ExacTrac
This new system allows us to image and verify the patient’s position within micromillimeters just prior to treatment to ensure it is the same as the original alignment.
Big bore CT-simulator
The advantage of the new CT scanner is that it allows the patient to be imaged in the treatment position. Additionally, a laser system allows us to mark where the radiation will be delivered. Another advantage is the ability to perform 4D gated CT scanning.
Up-To-Date High-Energy Linear Accelerator
A linear accelerator is the machine that delivers radiation for cancer treatment. “High-energy” linear accelerators can penetrate deep within the body. “Low energy” machines are used for superficial tumors. The Cancer Treatment Center has dual-energy accelerators to treat both deep-seated and superficial tumors.
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Multi-leaf Collimator
A multi-leaf collimator enables the radiation beam to conform to the actual shape of the malignancy. It helps reduce exposure to healthy tissue and, as a result, produces fewer potential side effects.
Record & Verify System
This computerized quality assurance tool links the linear accelerator and treatment planning computer so that the prescribed radiation dose and treatment plan can be recorded and “checked” before treatment begins. This automated system dramatically decreases the possibility of human error.
SonArray Ultrasound & Radio Camera
This combined system helps precisely pinpoint the exact location of “movable” organs, like the prostate, before radiation treatment. The Cancer Treatment Center is one of a few sites nationwide with this new technology.
3D + 4D Treatment Planning
3D allows your radiation oncologist to better plan your treatment by “seeing” the tumor more fully in three dimensions rather than the standard “flat” two-dimensional view. 4D planning allows us to view the cancer as you breathe, and adjust our treatment to account for this movement.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) & CT Fusion
Positron Emission Tomography (PET)
CT images can be fused with PET images from the PET Imaging Center operated by Memorial and St. Elizabeth's Healthcare Services, or the high quality MRI images from both hospitals. It allows for the most accurate and comprehensive treatment planning.
Virtual Simulation
Virtual simulation is the process of designing treatment plan borders without the patient being present. It uses CT images, and sometimes “fused” images, to better define your anatomy. This technology can minimize your “table” time but increase treatment accuracy.
Image Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT)
IGRT combines a variety of imaging techniques including CT and PET scans, to compare and verify a patient’s daily treatment setup with their original treatment plan. It allows for more targeted and accurate treatment.
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