Modern Radiation Therapy: What Do IMRT, IGRT, SBRT, and Protons Mean?

Radiation therapy has evolved tremendously in recent decades. Today, we have advanced technologies that allow us to treat cancer with greater precision, protecting healthy tissues and reducing side effects. But many patients wonder: what do acronyms like IMRT, IGRT, SBRT, or proton therapy actually mean?

Let’s break them down in simple terms.

IMRT – Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy

IMRT is an advanced technique that modulates the intensity of the radiation beam. This allows us to deliver a higher dose to the tumor while protecting surrounding healthy tissues. It’s often used for complex tumors, such as those in the prostate, head and neck, or left breast.

IGRT – Image-Guided Radiation Therapy

IGRT involves using daily imaging before each session to confirm the tumor’s position. This is especially helpful when the tumor or nearby organs might move (like the lungs or prostate), improving treatment accuracy and safety.

SBRT – Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy

SBRT allows doctors to deliver high doses in just a few sessions (sometimes only 1 to 5). It’s used to treat small tumors or metastases, especially in the lungs, liver, spine, or prostate, with outcomes comparable to surgery.

Proton Therapy

Unlike traditional X-rays (photons), protons release their energy directly at the tumor and don’t go beyond it. This minimizes radiation to healthy tissues. It’s particularly beneficial for certain pediatric cancers and tumors near critical structures like the brain or spinal cord.

Is it available in Costa Rica? Not yet. It’s available in the U.S., Europe, and parts of Asia, and is not necessary for all patients.

Conclusion

Not every technology is needed for every case. The most important thing is that your oncology team selects the best technique based on your diagnosis, tumor location, and overall health.