Prairie Lakes Cancer Center is one of only four cancer centers in the seven-state upper Midwest region including SD, ND, MN, IA, WY, MT, and NE to offer an advanced new radiation therapy system called TomoTherapy. TomoTherapy is a first-of-its-kind system that features an advanced CT scanner and the ability for 360 degree radiation delivery all in one unit.

Unlike traditional radiation therapy equipment, the TomoTherapy system's treatment delivery unit doubles as an on-board CT scanner that allows images of a patient's anatomy to be created with the same equipment that delivers the radiation prior to each treatment. This means clinicians have a greater level of confidence that tumors will receive their intended dosage from one treatment to the next.

In addition to the CT capabilities, another major difference from other radiation treatment units is the way the radiation hits the treatment area. A single beam of radiation is transformed into smaller "beamlets," which are delivered in a spiral pattern from any point in a 360 degree radius around the patient. By using this many beamlets delivered from all angles around the patient, the radiation dose conforms to the tumor and avoids critical organs; which can mean improved outcomes, fewer side effects, and a higher quality of life.

"We looked at several options and concluded that this technology is different and unique, essentially a step above the rest," explained Radiation Oncologist Jeffrey Brindle at Prairie Lakes Cancer Center. "We are certain that our patients will benefit tremendously from TomoTherapy treatments since the radiation can be pinpointed exactly where it needs to go, minimizing damage to healthy tissues and reducing side effects."

Patients receiving TomoTherapy will follow the same procedure with each treatment. Before each treatment, the patient moves through the unit for a CT scan. Images taken verify the shape, size, and location of the tumor.

The CT image is compared to the original planning CT image. If necessary, adjustments to the plan and patient set-up are made immediately. The patient then moves through the unit again where radiation is delivered in tens of thousand of beamlets in a spiral 360 degree pattern around the tumor.

"By combining image guidance and the most precise delivery pattern possible, our system optimizes the tools of radiation therapy, while simplifying the process for the patient, Dr. Brindle said. "We're very excited to be the first center in the eastern Dakotas and western Minnesota to offer this advanced radiation treatment therapy"

For more information on TomoTherapy, please visit http://www.tomotherapy.com/.