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Trilogy

Frequently Asked Questions

How does The Trilogy™ System work?

Trilogy is the newest and most powerful type of radiation therapy available. Like other types of external beam radiation, Trilogy works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells so that they can no longer reproduce. However, the Trilogy™ System takes advantage of the latest advances in physics and imaging technologies. It uses a process known as stereotactic body radiation therapy, or SBRT to deliver a higher dose of radiation to a very precise target.

What are the advantages of treatment with Trilogy over other methods of radiation therapy?

Since Trilogy allows us to deliver higher doses of radiation with more precision in fewer treatment sessions than ever before, the result is less damage to surrounding healthy tissue and shorter treatment time. It also allows us to safely treat tumors or other abnormalities that lie close to critical organs or other structures, such as the spinal cord or the eye. Trilogy is the newest and most versatile technology available for treating tumors throughout the body. It combines the capabilities of Cyberknife, Tomotherapy and Novalis, all in one machine.

What can I expect to experience during treatment with Trilogy?

Treatment with the Trilogy™ System is an outpatient procedure. During treatment, you lie on a moveable treatment couch and lasers are used to make sure the body is in the proper position. Diagnostic images taken before treatment – including CT, PET and MRI scans – help determine where to aim the beam. Radiation is then delivered to the site of the tumor from very specific, predetermined angles by rotating the machine around the body and by moving the treatment couch.

How long does treatment usually take?

Treatment with the Trilogy™ System usually takes about an hour.

Is there any pain associated with the treatment?

No. Treatment with Trilogy is painless. Though it is sometimes referred to as radiosurgery, the procedure does not involve making any incisions.

What are the side effects of treatment?

Treatment with Trilogy is non-invasive and there are usually no visible effects from the therapy. Recovery and healing are fast, and you can resume normal activities shortly after treatment.

Is treatment covered by insurance?

In most cases, treatment with Trilogy, like other forms of radiation therapy, are covered by major medical insurance plans.

How do I know if I can be treated with Trilogy?

Trilogy can be used to treat tumors throughout the body, including the brain, head and neck, lungs, liver and prostate. Trilogy allows doctors to target tumors extremely close to critical structures like the eye or spinal cord. Based on an evaluation of your medical records and films, our radiation oncology experts can determine whether you are a candidate for treatment with Trilogy. To learn more, please call 1-800-888-8823.


This page was last updated on: September 2, 2009.