Intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) is a type of three-dimensional radiation therapy which improves the targeting of radiation therapy treatments in a way that is likely to decrease damage to normal tissues.

Procedure

IMRT uses computer-generated images to match a radiation dose to the size and shape of a patient’s tumor. The radiation is broken up into thousands of tiny pencil-thin radiation beams that enter the body from many angles. The beams intersect the cancer by turning corners and making concave shapes to get into it, while avoiding most of the healthy tissue surrounding the cancer.

IMRT is performed on an outpatient basis. Most patients receive approximately 6 weeks of treatment with IMRT.

Who benefits from IMRT?

IMRT is helpful for patients who need high-dose radiation therapy in areas where there are important normal tissues near the tumor. All types of cancer may benefit from IMRT.

Information

For more information about the University of Florida Shands Cancer Center or to schedule a new patient appointment, please call (800) 749-7424 or (352) 265-8000.

Shands at UF Cancer Services were ranked 45th in the country by U.S.News&World Report.

Shands at UF Cancer Services Navigation

History

University of Florida Shands Cancer Center 2010 Annual Report (PDF file)

University of Florida Cancer Survivor Program

Types of Cancer

Brain Cancer

Breast Cancer

Colon Cancer

Gastrointestinal Cancers

Gynecological Cancer

Head and Neck Cancer

Larynx Cancer

Leukemia

Lung Cancer

Lymphoma

Myelodysplastic Syndromes

Oropharyngeal Cancer

Prostate Cancer

Skin Cancer

Urologic Cancers

Cancer Treatment

Bone Marrow Transplant

Brachytherapy

Chemotherapy

Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy

NanoKnife Procedure

Radiation Therapy

Stereotactic Radiosurgery

Surgery

Make an Appointment

To make a new patient appointment or find out more information about cancer services offered at Shands at the University of Florida, please call 352.265.0943 .

You may also email our Consultation Center (consult@shands.ufl.edu) or use our secure online form.