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What is volumetric modulated arc therapy?

Volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) is a type of radiation therapy that maximises radiation to the tumour, whilst sparing healthy tissue to help reduce the risk of side-effects.1

How does VMAT work?

VMAT is a form of radiation therapy that works by rotating the linear accelerator (the machine delivering the radiation) around you during treatment, continuously reshaping and changing the intensity of the radiation beam to ensure the maximum dose is delivered to the target areas while minimising exposure of radiation to healthy tissues.1 It automatically changes the beam shape and radiation dose as it moves.1

Treatment sessions with VMAT are usually shorter than conventional radiation therapy – around 10 minutes.2

VMAT may be used when the tumour is close to critical organs, such as with prostate and gastrointestinal cancers. It helps to reduce the radiation therapy dose to adjacent healthy organs and thereby helps to reduce the risk of side effects.¹

Widefield VMAT is an approach that allows for large or curved surfaces to be treated with a steady dose of radiation, such as with patients with widespread skin cancers.2

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Disclaimer:

This website is provided for information purposes only. Nothing on this website is intended to be used as medical advice, or to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. It should not be used as a substitute for your own health professional's advice. Any medical procedure or treatment carries risks. Before proceeding with treatment, you should discuss the risks and benefits of the treatment with an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Individual treatment outcomes and experiences will vary.

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