Intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) is a state of the art treatment technique. IMRT allows delivery of more effective, precise radiation dose to tumour and minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues, thus increasing possibility cure and reducing side effects. It is especially useful in the treatment of unusually shaped tumours, and tumours close to critical organs. IMRT involves complex and meticulous treatment planning and delivery. The radiation oncology team perform tumour mapping using the planning CT images and use sophisticated computer programs to design radiation treatment. At CancerCare Manitoba, we offer IMRT for various cancers sites. 

Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) / stereotactic radio surgery (SRS) is an ultra precision advanced radiation treatment modality delivering vey high doses of radiation technique using a carefully programmed system of coordinates. SBRT uses special systems for properly positioning, three-dimensional imaging and image guided radiation therapy (IGRT) to offer maximum radiation dosage delivery precisely to the tumour. It is often accurate to within 1 to 2 millimeters thus minimizes exposure to surrounding healthy tissue and organs. This treatment is usually completed in fewer sessions (1-5) as compared to traditional radiation therapy. SBRT requires no anesthesia and usually has fewer side effects than traditional radiation approaches.

We offer SBRT/SRS for various cancers including lung, liver, spine, brain and bone metastasis.

Brachytherapy involves placing radioactive material into the cancer itself or into the surrounding tissue. It offers high dose of radiation to a tumour while reducing exposure to the surrounding healthy tissues. Brachytherapy also has other advantages such as shorter courses of treatment, fewer trips to physicians’ offices and shorter recovery times.

Brachytherapy implants also referred to as seeds contain radioactive material. These seeds can be inserted for a short period of time and removed once the treatment is complete, or they can be left in place after all of the radiation has been released. Many types of tumours respond better to this form of treatment, including prostate and cervical cancer.