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The Blanchard Valley Health Association has invested millions of dollars to bring cutting edge technology to our community. Our two Varian Linear Accelerators include the Clinac Platinum EX and the Clinac 2100/C, the most advanced and trusted treatment machines in the field. Together with our CT simulator and advanced ADAC computer planning system, this state-of-the-art technology allows us to offer both 3-D conformal treatment and Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT). These dose delivery systems direct highly precise treatment to tumor areas while limiting dose to the surrounding tissue.
Terms:
Linear Accelerator - A machine which accelerates electrons to generate high energy (photon) radiation used in cancer treatment. With the ability to rotate 360 degrees, treatment can be given through shaped fields from a number of different angles.
CT Simulator - A machine which generates detailed images of the body for use in planning of radiation treatments.
Conformal Radiation Therapy - Treatment which uses CT images and powerful treatment planning computers to generate areas of radiation exposure which conform to known or potential sites of cancer involvement, while shielding surrounding tissues.
IMRT - The most sophisticated form of conformal treatment, utilizing the most advanced technology available to "sculpt" radiation dosage to areas of concern while spring adjacent tissues. Used most commonly for prostate and head-and-neck cancers, though usage continues to expand.
Inverse Planning Computer System - Computer system used to generate IMRT treatment plans.
Brachytherapy (Implant) - Placing seeds or other sources in direct contact with cancerous tissues. Radiation is given over a very short distance as the particles decay. In a temporary implant, the sources are removed once the intended dosage is given. In a permanent implant (as used for prostate cancer), dosage is given off gradually, until the seeds become inert.
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