Teletherapy isodose plan; simple (1 or 2 unmodified ports directed to a single area of interest), includes basic dosimetry calculation(s)
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Teletherapy Isodose Plan; Simple (1 or 2 unmodified ports directed to a single area of interest), includes basic dosimetry calculation(s).
Summary
A Teletherapy Isodose Plan, commonly referred to as external beam radiation therapy planning, involves using one or two radiation beams aimed at a specific area in the body. The goal is to design a treatment plan that delivers the appropriate dose of radiation to treat conditions like cancer, while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.
Purpose
The procedure is designed to treat cancerous tumors by delivering precise doses of radiation. It helps shrink tumors and kill cancer cells, with the goal of controlling or eliminating cancer.
Indications
- Presence of cancerous tumors in a localized area
- Early-stage cancers requiring precise radiation
- Patients who are not candidates for surgery
- Tumors that are accessible with one or two radiation ports
Preparation
- The patient may need to undergo imaging tests such as CT or MRI scans to pinpoint the treatment area.
- Individualized immobilization devices might be created to keep the patient still during treatment.
- The healthcare team will discuss any necessary adjustments to medications.
Procedure Description
- Simulation: The patient lies on a treatment table, and imaging is performed to locate the exact area to be treated.
- Planning: Using imaging data, a simple radiation plan is developed, focusing one or two unmodified ports at the target area.
- Dosimetry Calculation: Basic dosimetry calculations are performed to ensure the correct amount of radiation is delivered.
- Treatment: The patient lays on the treatment table, and the external beam radiation machine precisely targets the area of interest.
Tools/Equipment: Radiation therapy machine (linear accelerator), imaging devices (CT/MRI), immobilization devices.
Anesthesia/Sedation: Typically not required, as the procedure is non-invasive and painless.
Duration
The planning session takes about 30 minutes to an hour. Actual radiation sessions last only a few minutes each and may be repeated over several weeks.
Setting
The procedure is performed in a hospital or radiation oncology outpatient clinic.
Personnel
- Radiation Oncologist
- Medical Physicist
- Dosimetrist
- Radiation Therapist
- Nurses
Risks and Complications
- Skin irritation or dryness
- Fatigue
- Temporary or permanent hair loss in the treated area
- Rare risks include damage to surrounding tissues and organs
Benefits
- Effective in controlling or eliminating localized tumors
- Minimally invasive with no need for surgery
- Improved quality of life by reducing tumor size and symptoms
Recovery
- Minimal recovery time, as the procedure itself is non-invasive
- Patients can usually resume normal activities immediately
- Regular follow-up visits to monitor progress and manage any side effects
Alternatives
- Surgery: More invasive and requires longer recovery time
- Chemotherapy: Systemic treatment with different side effects
- Other types of radiation therapy (e.g., brachytherapy) depending on tumor location and type
Patient Experience
During the procedure, patients may feel mild discomfort from lying still but should not feel pain from the radiation itself. After treatment, some minor side effects like skin redness and fatigue may occur, which can be managed with proper care and follow-up.