CT planning & dosimetry

It is important that your radiotherapy treatment delivers the right dose directly to the tumour to destroy it most effectively and minimise damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

CT scanning produces images so that the tumour can be targeted accurately and dosimetry calculates the exact dose required to destroy it.

A CT scanner uses x-rays and sophisticated computers to create a 3D map of your body and the tumour/ target area to be treated. It's a painless procedure during which you are positioned on a couch while the scanner moves up and down over your body. The radiographers performing the scan may make some tiny permanent marks on your skin (no bigger than a pinhead). These will be used for reference during your treatment, but you don't have to have them if you prefer not to.

Our dosimetry team uses the 3D CT image map together with highly specialist computer technology to calculate the dose required. The maps are also used to plan how the dose is delivered by calculating and simulating the angle and number of radiation beams to be used.

Your care team uses all this information to design your individual treatment plan, outlining the exact dose, timings and positioning for your radiotherapy treatment.