What is three-dimensional radiotherapy (3D-CRT)?
3D-CRT stands for Three-Dimensional Conformal Radiation Therapy .
Detailed medical images, such as CT scans and other imaging where needed, are used to create a three-dimensional model of the treatment area for more precise planning.
In simple terms, three-dimensional radiotherapy aims to match the shape of the radiation fields to the tumor or target area as closely as possible, reducing exposure of surrounding healthy tissue.
What are the benefits of three-dimensional radiotherapy?
Three-dimensional planning allows a more detailed assessment of the treatment area and surrounding structures and helps the team design an appropriate plan.
High precision
Radiation fields are designed according to the target's shape and position for more precise treatment.
Protecting healthy tissue
An important planning goal is to reduce unnecessary radiation to nearby healthy organs and tissues.
Reducing possible side effects
Reducing radiation to healthy tissue may, in some cases, lower the risk of certain radiotherapy-related side effects.
More precise planning
The doctor and medical physicist can review dose distribution and design a plan tailored to the patient.
Treatment stages: what to expect
Knowing the treatment stages can help patients follow their treatment with greater peace of mind.
Step 1: Simulation
Imaging of the treatment area is performed first. Many radiotherapy plans use CT Simulation is used to identify the body's position and the treatment area.
Immobilization devices, such as special cushions or thermoplastic masks for head and neck treatment, may help reproduce the simulation position at later sessions.
Step 2: Planning by the medical team
After the images are acquired, the care team reviews the information.
The radiation oncologist and medical physicist use specialist software to design and evaluate beam fields, angles and dose distribution.
The plan is reviewed and checked before treatment begins to ensure the prescribed dose reaches the target and sensitive-organ dose limits are respected.
Step 3: Daily treatment sessions
Once planning is complete, radiotherapy sessions begin according to the schedule prescribed by the doctor.
At each session, technicians place the patient on the machine's couch and adjust the body position according to the plan.
The linear accelerator delivers beams to the target from planned angles.
Is three-dimensional radiotherapy painful?
Radiation delivery itself usually cannot be felt. Patients usually feel no pain, heat or particular sensation during radiation delivery. Side effects may develop over time depending on the treatment area, and the care team will monitor them.
Time in the treatment room depends on the treatment and plan. A significant part is spent positioning the patient precisely and checking their position.
Does the body become radioactive after radiotherapy?
In external radiotherapy with a linear accelerator, radiation is produced only while the machine is active and delivering treatment.
External radiotherapy does not make the patient radioactive after radiation delivery. The patient can therefore continue usual activities according to the care team's recommendations.
Managing possible side effects
Radiotherapy side effects depend on factors such as the treatment area, dose, number of sessions and the patient's individual condition.
😴 Fatigue
Fatigue is relatively common during radiotherapy. Sufficient rest and adjusting daily activities can help manage it.
🌿 Skin changes
During treatment, the skin may become sensitive, dry, red or darker. Appropriate skin care following the team's advice is important.
Important: Side effects differ between patients. Tell your care team about any new changes, pain, burning or unusual problems.
Key patient care tips
Following a few simple tips can help make your treatment course calmer and more comfortable.
Good nutrition
Maintain a balanced diet and drink enough fluids if your care team approves.
Skin care
Avoid tight or rough clothing over the treatment area and wash the skin gently.
Get enough rest
If you feel tired, allow time to rest and adjust daily activities to your energy level.
Contact your care team
Report any side effects or new changes to your doctor or nurse so that appropriate management can be provided.
Three-dimensional radiotherapy uses three-dimensional imaging and carefully designed radiation fields to help the team plan and deliver treatment according to each patient's circumstances.
The appropriate radiotherapy technique is selected according to tumor location and size, the patient's general condition and the specialist's assessment.