Three-Dimensional Conformal Radiation Therapy

Tumors usually have an irregular shape. Three-dimensional conformal radiatin therapy, or 3D-CRT, uses sophisticated computers and computerized axial tomograms scans or CAT scans to create detailed, three-dimensional representations of the tumor and surrounding organs. The radiation oncologist can then shape the radiation beams exactly to the size and shape of your tumor. The tools used to shape the radiation beams and multi-leaf collimators or blocks. Because the radiation beams are very precisely directed, nearby normal tissue receives less radiation exposure.