Selecting Megavoltage Treatment Technologies in External Beam Radiotherapy

The selection of a high energy (megavoltage) radiotherapy machine is a complex decision that is influenced by factors such as cancer type,treatment technology,and local social,economic,and physical circumstances. This publication provides information for non-technical administrators and decision makers,and for professionals directly involved in treating patients,to help them make informed decisions about the best type of machine for their needs.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 43 pages
Publication date: 30 March 2022
Publisher: IAEA

Radiotherapy is a treatment modality that employs various types of machines to deliver high-energy radiation to cancer patients. These machines include external beam high-energy radiation machines, kilovoltage machines, and brachytherapy equipment. The choice of radiotherapy machine is influenced by several factors, including the incidence of different cancer types, the complexity and cost of treatment technologies, and the local social, economic, and physical circumstances.

In the planning of a new radiotherapy facility or the upgrade of an existing one, the selection of a high-energy (megavoltage) radiotherapy machine is a critical decision. The two main types of high-energy machines are medical linear accelerators (linacs) and cobalt-60 machines. While both treatment modalities have been extensively compared in the relevant literature, there are limited publications that provide comprehensive guidance on choosing a megavoltage machine.

This publication aims to address this gap by providing a comprehensive guide for non-technical administrators and decision-makers, as well as professionals directly involved in patient treatment. It will cover the key considerations when selecting a megavoltage machine, including the technical specifications, clinical applications, and economic factors.

Medical linear accelerators (linacs) are commonly used for radiotherapy treatments, and they offer several advantages over cobalt-60 machines. Linacs are faster and more precise, allowing for shorter treatment times and improved patient comfort. They also provide a wider range of treatment options, including intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).

On the other hand, cobalt-60 machines are less expensive and more widely available, making them a popular choice for many healthcare facilities. They are particularly useful for treating superficial tumors and low-risk cancers. However, cobalt-60 machines have limitations in terms of precision and accuracy, and they may require more frequent maintenance and replacement of components.

In conclusion, the selection of a high-energy radiotherapy machine is a complex decision that requires careful consideration of several factors. This publication aims to provide a comprehensive guide for non-technical administrators and decision-makers, as well as professionals directly involved in patient treatment, to help them make informed decisions about the best machine for their needs. By understanding the advantages and limitations of different machine types, healthcare facilities can ensure that they provide the highest quality of care to their patients while optimizing their resources.

ISBN-13: 9789201168214