What is the IMRT process like?
The IMRT process is similar to a typical radiation treatment, and it depends, to some extent, on a particular hospital’s approach to radiation oncology. Typically, after conducting a physical exam and a medical history review, the radiation oncologist determines an individualized course of treatment for each patient. Treatment Preparation Most cases require a treatment preparation session. Special molded devices that help the patient maintain the same position every day are sometimes developed at this point. Colored, semi-permanent ink is often used to mark the patient’s skin, to assist in aligning the radiation equipment with the target area. X-rays may be taken in preparation for a treatment planning CT scan. The treatment preparation session might take from thirty minutes to an hour and the CT scan might take an additional 15-30 minutes. Following the CT scan, the IMRT planning process usually takes several days. When the plan is complete, the patient is given an appointment to begi
