Question

What are the general guidelines of 3-D conformal radiation therapy for prostate cancer?

Answer 1

Here's how 3-D conformal radiation therapy works:

• All patients have a CT scan specifically for radiation therapy treatment and planning.
• The CT data is electronically transferred to the 3-dimensional treatment planning computer.
• The doctor defines the area to be treated along with surrounding areas, such as the bladder, rectum, bowel, and bones.
• An optimal radiation beam and dose are analyzed using a 3-dimensional computer-generated model.
• When the exact dose of radiation to the prostate is determined, the patient returns for a treatment simulation.
• The simulation process transposes or maps the computer-generated plan to the patient. The doctor will review the treatment course and side effects with the patient.