Madurai hospital introduces 3-D radiotherapy

TNN | Mar 14, 2020, 04.06 AM IST

Madurai: A private hospital in Madurai has introduced three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT) and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) for better treatment of cancer patients.

“Conventionally, radiation therapy was being provided by using Cobalt-60 Bhabhatron for two-dimensional radiotherapy (2D-RT). We are now introducing Bhabhatron Multi Leaf Collimator, using which we can provide 3D CRT and IMRT. This treatment is far more advanced,” said Dr Ilamkumaran, medical director, Harshitha Hospital.

The use of patient-specific 3D images in the treatment planning process distinguishes 3D-CRT from conventional radiotherapy.

Meanwhile, IMRT uses advanced technology to manipulate photon and proton beams of radiation to conform to the shape of a tumor.

“The time is much less when using this advanced technology. IMRT takes only 15 minutes, while the conventional radiation therapy can take up to 45 minutes. This means, we can also treat more patients in a shorter time,” added the doctor.

The hospital said that the advanced radiation therapy will be available for patients free of cost, covered under the Chief Minister’s Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme (CMCHIS).