Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT)
An advanced form of IMRT where the radiation source rotates around the patient, offering more flexible beam angles and faster treatment times. VMAT is especially effective for tumors near sensitive structures.
What is VMAT?
Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT) is a cutting-edge form of radiation therapy that builds on the strengths of Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT). Unlike traditional methods that deliver radiation from fixed positions, VMAT allows the linear accelerator to rotate 360 degrees around the patient while delivering highly modulated beams. This dynamic motion enables faster treatment delivery, improved dose distribution, and exceptional precision—even for tumors near sensitive organs.
How It Works
360° Rotation for Full Tumor Coverage
As the radiation machine arcs around the body, it continuously adjusts the beam’s shape, intensity, and speed. This allows radiation to be delivered from countless angles in a single, seamless rotation.
Advanced Planning Systems
A CT or MRI scan is used to create a 3D model of your anatomy. Sophisticated planning software calculates the optimal path and intensity for each part of the arc—ensuring the most efficient and effective treatment possible.
Faster Treatment Sessions
Because VMAT can deliver the full radiation dose in one or two continuous arcs, sessions are often completed in significantly less time compared to traditional IMRT.
Benefits of VMAT
Efficient Delivery
Shorter treatment times (as little as 5–10 minutes) improve comfort and reduce movement during therapy.
Enhanced Precision
Ideal for tumors located near critical organs or tissues, with a lower risk of collateral damage.
Customized Beam Control
Radiation intensity and beam shape are constantly adjusted during the arc to conform to the tumor’s shape in real time.
Improved Patient Experience
Faster treatment times and fewer sessions can lead to less fatigue and more convenience.
Common Uses for VMAT
VMAT is used to treat a wide range of cancers, especially when high precision is required:
Head and neck cancers
Prostate cancer
Brain and spinal tumors
Pelvic tumors
Gynecologic and gastrointestinal cancers
Recurrent tumors requiring re-irradiation
What to Expect During Treatment
Planning Scan
You’ll undergo a CT or MRI scan to help plan your treatment path. Body molds or immobilization devices may be used to ensure consistent positioning.
Daily Sessions
Each session usually lasts under 15 minutes, with the actual radiation portion lasting just a few minutes.
Course of Care
VMAT is typically delivered 5 days per week over several weeks, but the schedule will depend on your diagnosis and treatment goals.
Learn More About Radiant Cancer Center
With our office based out of Rancho Mirage, our treatment center is conveniently located to serve the entire Coachella Valley.
Every step of your care is monitored and adjusted to ensure the highest accuracy.
Other Services We Offer
Interested in exploring other precision-focused radiation therapies?
Intensity‑Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT)
Advanced radiation treatment designed to target tumors with precision while protecting healthy tissue.
Surface-Guided Radiation Therapy (SGRT)
Uses 3D camera systems to monitor patient surface motion in real-time. SGRT enhances accuracy and safety by automatically pausing treatment if movement exceeds designated thresholds.
Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT)
Utilizes advanced imaging (e.g., CT, MRI, PET) before and during treatment to ensure radiation targets the exact tumor location, reducing margins and improving accuracy.