Radiation Therapy Techniques For Prostate Cancer (Genitourinary)
A variety of radiotherapy techniques are used in patients with prostate cancer. Previously, the most common include external beam radiotherapy delivered using 3D conformal radiation therapy (3DCRT). In this technique, multiple beams are used to focus the radiation dose on the target tissues reducing the volume of the bladder and rectum receiving high doses.
Today, the most common treatment approach in prostate cancer is intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT). Unlike conventional approaches, IMRT conforms the radiation dose to the shape of the target tissues in 3-dimensions, reducing the dose delivered to the nearby normal tissues including the rectum and bladder. IMRT has been shown to be associated with excellent outcomes with less RT-induced toxicities.
IMRT Plan in a patient with early stage prostate cancer
IMRT treatment approaches are particularly appealing in patients with “high risk” factors (Gleason > 6, PSA >10 ng/mL) who receive “whole pelvic” radiotherapy. IMRT is used in these men to reduce the volume of small bowel, rectum and bladder receiving high doses, in order to reduce the risk of potential acute and long term sequelae.
IMRT whole pelvic prostate plan
Ask your Radiation Oncologist whether IMRT is right for you. IMRT is the standard approach in all prostate cancer patients treated at UCSD.
Radiation Oncologists Who Treat Prostate Cancer (Genitourinary):
- Ajay Sandhu, MD
- Arno J. Mundt, MD
- John Einck, MD
- Mary Ann Rose, MD
- Polly Nobiensky, RN, BSN
- Chris Kane, MD
- J. Kellogg Parsons, MD
- C. Lowell Parsons, MD
- Tracey Downs, MD
- Fred Millard, MD
- Greg Daniels, MD
Prostate Cancer (Genitourinary) Publications by UCSD Radiation Oncology Faculty