External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT)

A higher, more effective dose to the cancerous tissues with a significant reduction of side effects.

During a course of external beam radiation (EBRT), radiation is focused on the prostate gland from a source outside of the body. It is similar to getting a strong x-ray, but for a longer period of time. Gulf Coast Cancer Treatment Center uses the most advanced form of EBRT, which is a three-dimensional, conformal radiation called intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT).

This therapy uses specialized computers and positioning devices to precisely map the location of the prostate permitting higher doses with fewer side effects. IMRT is widely used at major cancer treatment centers.

Treatment with IMRT

Conventional radiation targets an entire field for treatment. Unlike conventional therapy, IMRT uses moveable leaves similar to a lens on a camera to conform the radiation beam to the exact contours of the prostate. Using sophisticated computers, the beam is shaped for delivery while blocking the radiation dose from reaching healthy tissues such as the rectum and bladder.

The result is a higher, more effective dose to the cancerous tissues with a significant reduction of side effects.

The key to optimizing IMRT’s precision is centering the beam on the prostate gland, which can shift during normal movement. To accomplish this exact targeting, we frequently utilize the highly sophisticated BAT (B-mode Acquisition and Targeting) ultrasound. Before each daily IMRT treatment, BAT imaging locates the position of the prostate by use of an ultrasound probe placed on the skin surface. This is a painless procedure that takes about five minutes. By linking BAT and IMRT, we maximize the radiation dose to the surrounding normal organs. This process is referred to as Image Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT). It multiplies the potential for cure while greatly diminishing potential side effects.

The IMRT course of treatment involves a five-day a week treatment schedule for up to eight weeks. Each session is painless and normally takes only a few minutes at one of our clinics.

Considerations in Choosing IMRT

No invasive procedure is required. Daily treatments are short and allow the patient to return to his routine activity. IMRT, when used appropriately, is an extremely effective treatment for prostate cancer. Frequently, however, a complementary form of radiation – brachytherapy – is combined with EBRT to increase the dose and, thus, tumor control with limited side effects.

Next: Brachytherapy (Internal Radiation Therapy)