Role of Linear Accelerator (LINAC) in Cancer Treatment

Radiation therapy is the latest advancement in the treatment of cancer. This latest technology alone, or in combination with chemotherapy is being used in more than 80% of cancer treatments. This is becoming increasingly popular due to its high accuracy & precision.

Radiation therapy (also called radiotherapy) is a cancer treatment that uses high doses of radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumours. In radiotherapy, high-frequency energy beams, such as X-rays, are directed at the cancer cells to damage their DNA, preventing them from multiplying and causing them to die.

In radiotherapy, high-frequency radiation lowers the speed of cell growth, damaging the DNA of the cancer cells. Once the DNA of cancer cells die, it stops dividing, is broken down, and removed by the body.

One of the most famous radiotherapy devices is LINAC or Linear Accelerator, Halcyon (Varian), imported from America has found its first home in the Ujjain district’s Veda Hospital. The Halcyon Linear Accelerator performs ‘daily imaging’ before treatment, leading to more precise delivery of radiation.

Understanding LINAC

A Linear Accelerator is a refined medical device that has brought significant revolutions for cancer treatment in the medical world. It is a foundation of modern radiotherapy offering exact and effective targeting of cancer cells while lowering damage to healthy tissues.

LINAC performs external beam radiation treatment and projects high-energy X-rays or electrons at the tumour. This device can easily treat cancer present in all body parts like the brain, spine, head, neck, lungs, breast, liver, esophagus, stomach, bones, rectum, uterus, bladder, and prostate.

Based on the location, shape, and size of the cancer cells/tumours, LINAC delivers various types of therapies like-

Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT)
Image Guided Radiotherapy (IGRT)
Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT)

How Does LINAC Work?

The process begins with a comprehensive evaluation by the expert oncologists. They meticulously plan the treatment with the assistance of a CT scan, considering the tumour’s location, size, and proximity to vital organs.

The LINAC is then programmed to deliver radiation in a specific pattern, ensuring maximum impact on the cancer cells. The radiation is sent through the body and into the cancer tumour. A 3D image guidance like CT scanning helps precisely target the tumour. Special software then aligns the radiation beam to unique shapes and sizes. It ensures specific targeting of the cancer cells. Advanced imaging technologies, such as CT and MRI, guide the radiation beam with pinpoint accuracy.

The advanced technology of LINAC allows for:

Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT): Real-time imaging ensures that the radiation is delivered to the exact location of the tumour, even if it has shifted slightly.
Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT): This technique delivers varying radiation doses to different parts of the tumour, maximizing the destruction of cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue.
Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT): This advanced form of IMRT projects radiation around the patient, increasing precision and reducing treatment time.
Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS): For small, localized tumours, SRS delivers a high dose of radiation in a single or a few sessions, with exceptional accuracy.
Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT): Similar to SRS but used for larger tumours, SBRT delivers high doses of radiation in a few sessions.

Types of Cancer Treated with LINAC

LINAC is effective in treating various cancers, including:

Breast Cancer- LINAC can be a valuable resource for identifying breast cancer. It is very useful to kill cancer cells post-surgery, leading to better recovery.
Prostate Cancer- Radiation therapy is an effective treatment that kills prostate cancer cells by using high-energy rays or particles.
Head and Neck Cancer- LINAC helps preserve vital functions like speech and swallowing
Lung Cancer- Effective in treating both small and non-small cell lung cancer
Other Cancers- LINAC is also used to treat cancers of the cervix, liver, esophagus, uterus, pancreas, and more.

Advantages of LINAC

Precision Targeting

Pinpoint Accuracy: LINAC offers radiation with extreme precision, directly targeting the tumour while avoiding healthy tissues. This minimizes collateral damage and reduces the risk of side effects.
Conformality: Radiation beams can be shaped to conform precisely to the tumour’s shape and size, further enhancing accuracy and effectiveness.

Enhanced Effectiveness

Tumour Size and Location: Effective for both large and small tumours, as well as those in difficult-to-reach areas. Accurate 3D imaging helps reach the cancer cells in the complex corners of the pancreas, liver, or prostate.
Combination Therapies: Can be integrated with other cancer treatments like chemotherapy or surgery for improved outcomes.

Time Efficiency and Comfort

Shorter Treatment Sessions: Compared to traditional radiation therapy, LINAC treatments are often quicker, reducing the overall time commitment for patients.
Advanced Technology: Modern LINACs incorporate features that enhance patient comfort, such as advanced imaging and positioning systems.
Minimal Discomfort: Most patients experience minimal discomfort during treatment.

Improved Quality of Life

Preservation of Healthy Tissue: By sparing healthy tissues, LINAC helps patients maintain their overall well-being and reduce the risk of long-term side effects.
Faster Recovery: Reduced treatment time and minimal side effects can lead to a quicker recovery and return to normal activities.
Enhanced well-being: Improved physical and emotional health can enhance the quality of life during and after treatment.

Veda Hospital- The Answer for Cancer Cure in Ujjain

Veda Hospital holds its head high for being the 1st hospital in the district to offer the Halcyon for precise cancer treatment. Our team of oncologists and radiotherapists collaborate to deliver highly precise and targeted cancer treatments for optimal patient outcomes.

We are committed to world-class cancer care. The comprehensive range of LINAC-based treatments helps you tailor to individual patient cases. Our oncology team works closely, keeping you involved in the treatment processes, and ensuring the best possible care. We understand that cancer treatment can be overwhelming, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

Don’t let cancer dictate your future.

Experience the power of precision with LINAC treatment at Veda Hospitals.

Role of Linear Accelerator (LINAC) in Cancer Treatment

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