Radiology Practice Test

Which type of radiation therapy delivers high doses of radiation to a targeted tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding normal tissue?

1. Conventional Radiotherapy

2. Radiofrequency Ablation

3. Stereotactic Radiosurgery

4. Brachytherapy

The correct answer is: Stereotactic Radiosurgery

Stereotactic radiosurgery is a specialized form of radiation therapy that allows for the delivery of precise, high doses of radiation directly to a tumor while sparing surrounding healthy tissue. This technique utilizes advanced imaging technologies, such as CT or MRI, to accurately locate the tumor and track its position throughout the treatment. By focusing multiple beams of radiation from different angles onto the target, it can effectively increase the dose to the tumor while reducing the exposure of adjacent normal structures. The targeting capability of stereotactic radiosurgery makes it particularly useful for treating tumors in locations that are difficult to access surgically or for patients who may not be suitable candidates for traditional surgery. The high dose delivered in fewer sessions is effective in controlling tumor growth. In contrast, conventional radiotherapy typically administers lower doses over more prolonged treatment durations, which can expose more normal tissue to radiation. Radiofrequency ablation primarily uses heat to destroy tumor cells rather than radiation. Brachytherapy involves placing radioactive sources directly within or very close to the tumor but may not achieve the same level of precision as stereotactic techniques when it comes to targeting small or irregularly shaped tumors.