Gamma Therapy Short Distance: Overview and Applications
Short-range gamma therapy, also known as short-focus gamma therapy, is an advanced radiation treatment technique that is widely used to combat tumors in various fields of medicine. This technology offers precise and effective targeting of tumor cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. In this article we will consider the main aspects of short-distance gamma therapy and its application in clinical practice.
Short-distance gamma therapy is based on the use of gamma radiation, which is a high-energy type of electromagnetic radiation. The main sources of gamma radiation are isotopes such as cobalt-60 or iridium-192. These isotopes are placed in special machines called gamma knives or gamma machines, which create a narrow beam of gamma radiation.
One of the main advantages of short-distance gamma therapy is the ability to deliver a high dose of radiation directly to the tumor, bypassing surrounding healthy tissue. This is achieved by precisely positioning gamma rays onto the tumor using three-dimensional radiotherapy planning. This approach allows you to minimize the risk of complications and side effects associated with irradiation of healthy tissue.
Short-distance gamma therapy is used to treat various types of tumors, including the brain, head and neck, back, spine, lungs, liver, prostate and others. It can be used as the main treatment or in combination with surgery, chemotherapy or other treatments.
In addition, short-distance gamma therapy can be used to treat tumor recurrences after previous surgery or radiotherapy. This allows patients who have recurrent tumors to receive effective treatment without the need for repeated surgery.
However, like any medical procedure, short-distance gamma therapy has its limitations and potential side effects. Some patients may experience fatigue, nausea, and changes in the skin and hair at the radiation site. In rare cases, complications may occur due to irradiation of surrounding healthy tissue. The key advantages of short-distance gamma therapy are:
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High precision: Short-distance gamma therapy provides high precision in delivering radiation to the tumor thanks to three-dimensional planning of radiation therapy. This allows you to focus as much as possible on the tumor and minimize damage to healthy tissue.
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Minimal side effects: By precisely positioning gamma rays onto the tumor, short-distance gamma therapy reduces the risk of side effects such as damage to surrounding tissue, burns or skin reactions.
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High efficiency: Short-distance gamma therapy is an effective method for treating tumors. It can be used successfully as a primary treatment or in combination with other methods such as surgery or chemotherapy.
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Treatment of relapses: Short-distance gamma therapy can be an effective treatment for tumor relapses. This is especially important for patients who have previously had surgery or radiation therapy and require additional treatment without repeat surgery.
In conclusion, short-distance gamma therapy is an advanced radiation treatment method that provides precise and effective targeting of tumor cells. Due to its high accuracy and minimal side effects, it is becoming an increasingly popular choice for the treatment of various types of tumors. However, before using short-distance gamma therapy, it is necessary to conduct a thorough examination and consultation with a doctor to assess the benefits and risks of this procedure for each patient.