In clinical practice, Three-Dimensional Conformal Radiation Therapy (3DCRT) is a conventional technique for radiation therapy treatments. This technique involves designing a treatment plan that can lead to uniform dose distribution within the target volume. Using our state of the art linear accelerators, we utilize beam modifiers such as wedges and compensating filters to improve dose distributions. We also perform image fusion, where we incorporate all diagnostic imaging, including CT scans, MRI and PET scans into the radiation treatment planning process. This allows us to more accurately outline the tumor using all the information from multiple images. Thus, 3DCRT is an excellent treatment option for many patients. At GW, we routinely use 3DCRT for treatment of breast cancer, lung cancer, and pelvic malignancies.
GW has a long history of being at the forefront of the development and implementation of 3DCRT modalities to assure highly accurate radiation therapy treatments. The department was one of the first to implement CT scans in the treatment of patients with brachytherapy to ensure accurate dose delivery.