Print OverviewIntensity-modulated radiation therapy, also called IMRT, is an advanced type of radiation therapy. Radiation therapy uses powerful energy beams to kill cancer cells. The energy can come from X-rays, protons or other sources. With IMRT, the beams of radiation are carefully customized. The beams are shaped to match the shape of the cancer. The beams can move through an arc while they deliver the radiation. The intensity of each beam can be varied. The result is a precisely controlled radiation treatment. IMRT delivers the correct radiation dose as safely and efficiently as possible. IMRT can be used to treat cancers and tumors that aren't cancerous, which are called benign tumors. It can treat cancers and tumors anywhere in the body. The goal of IMRT is to deliver the correct dose of radiation to the target and minimize radiation outside of the target. This helps lower the risk of hurting nearby healthy tissue.Products & ServicesSign up for Email: Get Your Free Resource – Coping with Cancer Why it's doneIntensity-modulated radiation therapy, also called IMRT, is used to treat cancers and tumors that aren't cancerous. The goal of treatment is to target the radiation so that nearby healthy tissue isn't hurt. Clinical trials Explore Mayo Clinic studies of tests and procedures to help prevent, detect, treat or manage conditions. By Mayo Clinic Staff Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) care at Mayo Clinic Request an appointment Doctors & Departments April 16, 2024 Print Show references Tepper JE, et al., eds. Intensity-modulated and image-guided radiotherapy. In: Gunderson & Tepper's Clinical Radiation Oncology. 5th ed. Elsevier; 2021. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Jan. 16, 2023. Mitin T. Radiation therapy techniques in cancer treatment. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Jan. 16, 2023. Nguyen H. Allscripts EPSi. Mayo Clinic. May 5, 2022. Accredited facility search. American College of Radiology. https://www.acraccreditation.org/accredited-facility-search. Accessed Jan. 16, 2023. Searching for cancer centers. American College of Surgeons. https://www.facs.org/hospital-and-facilities/?searchTerm=mayo+clinic&institution=CocHospital&address=&sort=relevance&page=1. Accessed Jan. 16, 2023. Related Cancer Choroid plexus carcinoma Craniopharyngioma Head and neck cancers Meningioma Show more related content Products & Services Sign up for Email: Get Your Free Resource – Coping with Cancer Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT)AboutDoctors&DepartmentsCare atMayoClinic Advertisement Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. Advertising & Sponsorship Policy Opportunities Ad Choices Mayo Clinic Press Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic Press. Mayo Clinic on Incontinence - Mayo Clinic PressMayo Clinic on IncontinenceThe Essential Diabetes Book - Mayo Clinic PressThe Essential Diabetes BookMayo Clinic on Hearing and Balance - Mayo Clinic PressMayo Clinic on Hearing and BalanceFREE Mayo Clinic Diet Assessment - Mayo Clinic PressFREE Mayo Clinic Diet AssessmentMayo Clinic Health Letter - FREE book - Mayo Clinic PressMayo Clinic Health Letter - FREE book PRC-20304584 Patient Care & Health Information Tests & Procedures Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT)