Patient Testimonial for Rapid ARC Technique

Vocal cord cancer (laryngeal cancer), occurs when abnormal cells grow in the vocal cords, which are located in the larynx (voice box). The exact cause is not always clear, but risk factors include smoking, heavy alcohol use, and exposure to certain chemicals. Symptoms often include a persistent sore throat, hoarseness or changes in the voice, difficulty swallowing, and ear pain. Diagnosis typically involves a laryngoscopy, where a doctor uses a thin, flexible tube to examine the vocal cords, along with imaging tests like CT or MRI scans to determine the extent of the cancer. Treatment usually involves surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy, depending on the cancer’s stage and the patient’s overall health.

RapidArc therapy is a modern form of radiation therapy that delivers precise doses of radiation to cancerous tissues while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. For vocal cord cancer, this technique can be combined with hypofractionated radiation, which involves giving higher doses of radiation in fewer sessions. This approach can be beneficial in reducing the total number of treatments needed, leading to a more convenient schedule for patients and potentially fewer side effects. During RapidArc therapy, the patient lies still while the machine rotates around them, delivering radiation from multiple angles. This method ensures accurate targeting of the cancerous cells and can be effective in treating vocal cord cancer, helping to manage the disease while preserving as much of the healthy tissue as possible.

Mr. MD Abu Hanif from Bangladesh successfully underwent RapidArc Therapy with Hypofractionated Radiation for Vocal Cord Cancer at Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad, under the supervision of Dr. Bhanu Prakash Bandlamudi, Consultant Medical-Hemato Oncologist and Dr. D Shiva Prasad, Consultant Radiation Oncologist.