Handbook of Treatment Planning in Radiation Oncology, 2nd Edition

Radiation oncology remains a “technical” discipline, whose practice is gradually learned through experience. This book focuses on a series of suggested steps to follow to successfully complete effective radiotherapy planning. Initially, it deals with the general physics principles such as percent depth dose (PDD), and target volumes namely gross tumor volume, clinical target volume and planning target volume. Next, the book presents a discussion on the tools for simulation and treatment, namely the techniques in positioning and immobilization and the techniques in localization at the time of treatment delivery. Subsequently, sections are organized by body site or system, whichever proved best for consistency in presenting the general principles of planning. The book discusses radiotherapy concerned with central nervous system, head and neck, breasts, thoracic region, gastrointestine (nonesophageal), genitourinary sites, gynecology, myeloma, and soft tissue sarcoma. It also presents specialized topics such as palliative therapy and pediatrics. After referencing general planning requirements, each specific subsite within a given section provides more specific details on approaches to radiotherapy planning.