RapidArc™ Radiotherapy Technology
Overview
RapidArc™ radiotherapy technology is a new approach to image-guided,
intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IG-IMRT) that delivers precise treatments in shorter times
than conventional IMRT.
RapidArc represents a major medical advance and is more comfortable for patients because they
spend less time in their daily treatments. A fast, precise RapidArc treatment takes 80% less time. Patients can be in and out of treatment quickly and return to their daily routine.
RapidArc rotates 360 degrees around the patient, enabling the very small beams with varying
intensity to be aimed at the tumor from multiple angles. Unlike helical IMRT treatments or other
forms of radiation therapy, with RapidArc the radiation treatment being delivered to the patient
can be modulated continuously throughout treatment. This means that higher doses of radiation are
delivered to hit the tumor harder, and less radiation is delivered to surrounding healthy tissue.
RapidArc treatments are delivered using a Clinac® linear accelerator
outfitted with imaging capabilities. The RapidArc imaging capabilities let the clinician see the
location of the tumor in three dimensions before treatment. If the cancer has moved due to physical
changes, treatment can be adjusted so the patient receives a precise treatment.
