Proton Therapy (also known as Particle Therapy) is an advanced form of radiotherapy that uses a beam of high-energy protons for treating various kinds of cancer. In contrast to conventional radiation therapy — in which beam energy steadily dissipates as it passes through tissue — proton beams can be fine-tuned to deliver maximum energy within a precisely controlled range.
Conventional X-ray radiation controls many cancers. However, because a physician cannot confine the irradiation pattern to the tumor, healthy tissue may be damaged. A primary advantage of Proton Therapy is that higher, more effective doses of radiation can be used to control and manage cancer, while significantly reducing damage to surrounding healthy tissue and vital organs.
Proton Therapy offers the most favorable dose deposition properties possible with external beam techniques. It also increases the effectiveness of other forms of cancer therapy and, in clinical trials, has proven easier to combine with chemotherapy and surgery. As a non-invasive treatment, Proton Therapy may even be an alternative to surgery for some patients. Fewer, less-severe side effects from treatment translate to better quality of life for patients and, ultimately, health care cost savings.
Research into the use of protons for treating cancer goes back to the late 1940s. Developments over time in research, imaging, and scanning technology have allowed the benefits of Proton Therapy to be more fully realized. Today, it is becoming widely accepted as a viable treatment modality, representing true progress in the battle against cancer.
With more than 20 years of experience, IBA Proton Therapy is at the forefront of developing the technology and treatment facilities for delivering Proton Therapy to meet growing demand. IBA, the market leader, has designed and equipped the majority of the clinically operating Proton Therapy centers around the world.
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