Radiation Therapy – Computer Aided Treatment Planning Providing Even Better Results

Radiation therapy planning involves far more than simply orientating an x-ray beam and pushing a button. Significant planning of treatments takes place before the patient even sees the radiation therapy facility in the Southern Animal Referral Centre.

Of late this planning has been improved by the use of computer generated models for treatment. Many treatments use multiple-portal therapies, where the target area is irradiated from several different directions with beams of varying strengths. This technique maximises radiation exposure at the tumour site whilst minimising side effects to surrounding healthy tissue.

Computer-aided generation of these plans is continuing to provide positive treatment outcomes with fewer side effects. Treatments are simulated and planned using 3 dimensional, multi-portal simulated scenarios. This analysis allows the clinician to simulate a number of different beam orientations and strengths for the particular tumour size and measurements of the patient concerned. This tailored approach means that each patient receives a fully customised treatment plan and the best opportunity at a positive outcome.

The Southern Animal Referral Centre deep radiation therapy facility remains the only veterinary small animal deep radiation therapy facility in Australia. If you have questions about radiation therapy, please do not hesitate to call the Centre on (03) 9532 5261.

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