Computer Assisted Radiation Therapies is spelled /kəmˈpjuːtər əˈsɪstɪd reɪdiˈeɪʃən ˈθerəpiz/. The word "computer" is pronounced with the schwa /ə/ in the first syllable and the long "u" sound /uː/ in the second syllable. "Assisted" is pronounced with the short "a" sound /æ/ in the first syllable and the unstressed "i" sound /ɪ/ in the second syllable. "Radiation" is pronounced with the stressed "a" sound /eɪ/ and the "sh" sound /ʃ/ in the second syllable. "Therapies" is pronounced with the unstressed "i" sound /ɪ/ in the second syllable
Computer Assisted Radiation Therapies (CART) refers to a range of advanced medical technologies and techniques that combine computer systems with radiation therapy for the treatment of various cancers. CART utilizes powerful computers to assist medical professionals in planning and delivering radiation therapy with a high level of precision and accuracy.
In CART, radiologists and radiation oncologists use specialized software and imaging techniques to create virtual 3D models of the patient's anatomy. These models help guide the treatment planning process by providing detailed information about the tumor location and surrounding healthy tissues. By accurately visualizing the tumor and its surrounding structures, CART allows clinicians to develop optimal treatment plans that maximize the radiation dose to the tumor while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues.
During treatment, CART systems play a crucial role in ensuring the accurate delivery of radiation therapy. They use real-time imaging techniques, such as computed tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to track the precise position of the tumor and adjust the radiation beams accordingly. This sophisticated tracking and targeting system helps compensate for any variations in patient positioning or tumor motion, enhancing treatment precision and effectiveness.
Overall, Computer Assisted Radiation Therapies represent a significant advancement in radiation therapy, as they combine state-of-the-art computer technologies with radiation treatment planning and delivery. By improving precision, accuracy, and safety, CART offers a more targeted approach to cancer treatment, increasing the chances of successful outcomes while reducing potential side effects and damage to healthy tissues.