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mom hugging her son
Cancer Treatments

Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT)

At Mays Cancer Center, home to UT Health San Antonio MD Anderson Cancer Center, our team pioneered the use of intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) decades ago.

Today, our experts use IMRT to treat certain cancers, such as prostate and lung cancers, with incredible precision. IMRT’s increased effectiveness — with fewer side effects — offers new possibilities for what you can do during and after cancer treatment.

What is intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT)?

Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) uses a powerful machine called a linear accelerator to break a radiation beam into many smaller beams.

With IMRT, doctors can direct high doses of radiation right at a tumor, sparing nearby healthy tissue.

IMRT: What to expect

The more precisely we hit a tumor with focused radiation, the more effectively we destroy cancer cells. Many patients experience fewer side effects from IMRT than from other radiation therapy.

Our experts use a specialized technique called volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) to shape the radiation dose to the tumor with incredible precision.

VMAT reduces your treatment time per session. IMRT sessions with VMAT can take as little as one minute per treatment. Less time in treatment means more time to focus on things that matter to you.

We use a special surface imaging system to track your breathing while you receive IMRT. Our technology ensures you lie in the exact same position for every treatment. This level of detail leads to highly effective cancer-destroying effects while protecting healthy tissues.

How to talk to your doctor about IMRT

The technical aspects of radiation therapy can be intimidating. Understanding the process can relieve your discomfort.

Your doctor will sit down with you before treatment begins to explain what you can expect. Our nurses and support professionals make themselves available to provide answers and encouragement when you need either.

Our radiation oncologists meet regularly with each other and other cancer doctors to personalize your care. This level of collaboration ensures your treatment plan fits your needs.

Why choose us for IMRT?

Nationally recognized specialists at Mays Cancer Center use IMRT to treat many types of cancer in children and adults.

Highlights of our program include:

  • Leading cancer expertise: Our radiation oncologists have delivered more than 20,000 IMRT treatments. We offer an exceptional level of experience and skill. Read more about our renowned radiation oncology program.
  • Focused training: Each of our radiation oncologists specializes in treating cancers that affect certain areas of the body. This level of focus means our doctors confidently treat rare and advanced cancer cases safely.
  • Commitment to excellence: Our team continually looks for new ways to improve your care by exploring treatments that destroy cancer with less impact on your life. We also pursue other improvements, like changing how we help you prepare for a treatment session so you feel less anxiety.

Cancers we treat with IMRT

Your doctor may recommend IMRT as the primary cancer treatment or in combination with other therapies, such as surgery or chemotherapy.

IMRT can effectively treat many types of cancer, including:

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