Three-Dimensional Conformal Radiation Therapy

Three-dimensional (3-D) conformal radiation therapy is based on a CT scan of the region of the body being treated. Radiation oncologists use computer software to determine how the patient will look from any angle and identify the best paths to direct the radiation. The beams are specially made to maximize the effects of the radiation on cancer cells while minimizing its effect on surrounding healthy tissue. A multileaf collimator (a piece of equipment that is capable of blocking radiation) is used to protect areas that could potentially be harmed by the beams. Image Fusion technology, which allows several medical imaging modalities to be used simultaneously to aid in the targeting and planning of radiation therapy, is utilized to assist with three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy. This is routinely used at the Cancer Care Center to better define and understand the disease site. In addition to fusing CT and MRI 3-D data sets, physicians also fuse correlated PET scans and map areas of metabolic activity otherwise invisible to medical imaging. The end result is a finely tuned image set that allows the team to plan the most precise and effective treatment possible.