The Calypso 4D localization system is a relatively new prostate cancer treatment technology in which real-time tumor tracking is used to deliver the maximum radiation dose directly to the tumor while sparring surrounding tissues and organs. Three small Beacon® electromagnetic transponders are implanted into the prostate in order to communicate with the Calypso technology through radiofrequency waves. These transponders communicate the exact location of the prostate. With real-time tracking, if the prostate moves outside of the radiation treatment field, the radiation beam is turned off. Once the prostate is back in the target range, the radiation beam is reinitiated. By administering radiotherapy using the Calypso system, radiation oncologists are able to safely deliver precisely focused radiation and patients experience decreased side effects, such as incontinence and erectile dysfunction.
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