Name of the Procedure:

Multi-leaf collimator (MLC) device(s) for Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT)

Summary

This procedure involves using multi-leaf collimator (MLC) devices in intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) to precisely target and deliver radiation to a tumor while sparing surrounding healthy tissue. The MLC shapes the radiation beam accurately as per a pre-designed IMRT plan.

Purpose

• Medical Condition: This procedure is used primarily for treating various forms of cancer.
• Goals: To deliver effective radiation therapy that maximizes tumor control while minimizing damage to healthy surrounding tissues.

Indications

• Presence of tumors or cancerous growths.
• Patients requiring precise radiation delivery due to the tumor’s proximity to critical organs or tissues.
• Cases where conventional radiation therapy might result in excessive damage to healthy tissues.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure imaging (e.g., CT scan, MRI) to map the tumor and surrounding anatomy.
• Fasting may be required for a few hours before the procedure.
• Medication adjustments as per the physician’s instructions.
• Patient might need to wear loose-fitting clothes and remove any jewelry.

Procedure Description

1. Planning: Imaging data is used to create a detailed IMRT plan that specifies radiation dose and beam configuration.
2. Setup: Patient is positioned on the treatment table using immobilization devices to ensure precise targeting.
3. Using MLC: The MLC device, consisting of multiple narrow leaves, shapes the radiation beam. The leaves move independently to conform to the 3D shape of the tumor.
4. Radiation Delivery: The linear accelerator delivers radiation according to the IMRT plan. The MLC dynamically adjusts to continue shaping the beam during delivery.
   • Tools/Equipment: Linear Accelerator, MLC device, and imaging systems.
   • Anesthesia: Generally, no anesthesia is needed, though sedation might be used in some cases.

Duration

The procedure typically takes between 15 to 30 minutes per session.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a hospital’s radiation oncology department or a specialized cancer treatment center.

Personnel

• Radiation oncologist
• Medical physicist
• Dosimetrist
• Radiation therapist
• Nurses

Risks and Complications

• Common: Skin irritation, fatigue, temporary hair loss in the treatment area.
• Rare: Damage to nearby organs, secondary cancers from radiation exposure.
• Management includes symptomatic treatment and close monitoring by the healthcare team.

Benefits

• Precise targeting of the tumor with minimal damage to healthy tissue.
• Higher doses of radiation can be used efficiently.
• Improved tumor control and potential increased survival rates.
• Benefits may be noticeable after several treatment sessions.

Recovery

• Post-procedure care includes monitoring for side-effects and following specific instructions provided by the healthcare team.
• Patients can usually resume normal activities immediately but may need to avoid strenuous activities.
• Recovery may take a few days, with regular follow-ups to monitor progress.

Alternatives

• Conventional radiation therapy: Less precision but may be simpler and faster.
• Surgery: Direct removal of the tumor but involves greater risk and longer recovery.
• Chemotherapy: Drugs to kill cancer cells, often used in conjunction but with systemic side effects.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure, patients might feel the table moving and hear noises from the machine but should not feel pain.
• Post-procedure, patients might experience mild discomfort or fatigue, managed with rest and supportive care.
• Patient comfort is prioritized through proper positioning and communication during the session.