Computerized treatment planning allows for much more effective treatment of prostate and brain cancers.

Three-dimensional treatment planning gives the physician a more complete look at a patient’s anatomy than previous radiation treatment. Under the method that was used in the past, the dose of radiation that was administered was based on a much narrower view of the patient’s anatomy.

3-D treatment planning, however, provides an outline of the affected area as well as surrounding organs. Conformal radiation treatment gives doctors the ability to design a plan that is tailored to meet the needs of each patient. As a result, areas that need higher doses are able to receive them without hitting nearby spots that do not require or should not receive as much, resulting in a higher success rate with fewer side effects.