Computed Tomography in Radiotherapy Treatment Planning

ABSTRACTComputed tomography (CT) provides in creased accuracy in tumour localisation, patient ouline data and heterogeneity information. This makes the use of CT highly desirable in 2–dimensional treatment planning. Where 3–dimensional (3–D) planning is used computed tomography (or possibly MRI) is essential. Radiotherapy departments must include dedicated CT scanners if they are to attain acceptable accuracy in simulation and treatment planning. The use of modern accelerators and treatment planning systems will be downgraded in the absence of routine CT imaging in a Radiotherapy Department.