UZ Leuven applies revolutionary radiation technique on breast cancer patient for the first time

16/01/2025

Combining the advantages of two common techniques for breast cancer treatment results in greater efficiency, and is a world first for UZ Leuven.

IMRT (Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy) and VMAT (Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy) are two well-known techniques used to irradiate cancerous tumours. The first therapy adjusts the intensity of the radiation to the form of the tumour and works from a fixed angle; the second involves continuously rotating the radiation source. Combined, the brand new technique is called RAD (Rapid Arc Dynamic). This American technique has been further refined by a team of medical specialists at UZ Leuven. It offers various advantages. The radiation dose can be even lower and more targeted, so that the healthy tissue surrounding the tumour is protected as much as possible, and the radiation time is limited to two minutes. It is expected that there will be fewer skin reactions and aesthetic side effects, thereby offering additional comfort for patients. More good news: patients don't have to pay extra for RAD. 

The first RAD treatment was a major success, but further research is necessary to see if it can be used for other types of cancer.