Three-Dimensional Radiation Treatment: Technological Innovations and Clinical Results Symposium on 3-D Radiation Treatment: Technological Innovations and ... of Radiation Therapy and Oncology)

Radiation therapy is in the process of continual change, fueled by advances in computer technology, but also aided by the contributions of several disciplines such as physics, mathematics, radiological diagnostics, neurosurgery, and mechanical and electrical engineering. Based on the 3D imaging techniques CT and MRI, a complete change from the 2D consideration of the radiotherapy problem has taken place, leading to 3D treatment planning and to completely new treatment delivery systems. A 3D approach allows for a dramatic rethinking of the following central therapy issues: positioning, targeting, and dose and risk calculation. Major advances have been made in recent years in conformal or stereotactic techniques, in dosimetry, the target volume concept as well as clinical studies. The advances are reflected in the papers collected here from the international symposium '3D Radiation Treatment: Technological Innovations and Clinical Results' held in Munich in March 1999.