External beam radiation therapy (EBRT) is one option for the treatment of prostate cancer or other types of cancers. EBRT uses high energy beams, such as photons (used at ACT) or protons. Specifically, we use a sub-form of EBRT called intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) delivered by a Truebeam linear accelerator. The treatment technique we use most commonly is called Rapid Arc, a type of IMRT. Treatment plans are custom generated for the patient’s anatomy and specific tumor spread patterns using CT based planning. An invisible x-ray beam is then directed at the prostate, or the prostate and pelvic lymph nodes. This treatment can also be administered in the case of a rising PSA after the prostate has been removed surgically. The goal is to destroy the cancerous cells while sparing the surrounding normal tissues as much as possible. Treatment delivery is painless and takes 10 minutes or less, 5 days per week, usually over many weeks.
Clinicians may counsel patients with prostate cancer that proton therapy is a treatment option, but it has not been shown to be superior to other radiation modalities in term of toxicity profile and cancer outcomes. (Conditional Recommendation; Evidence Level: Grade C)
In certain cases, your Radiation Oncologist may recommend the addition of SpaceOAR hydrogel to your treatment plan. Learn more by visiting spaceoar.com.
