| The quality of target volume definition has always been a leading determinant of the successful outcome of a course of therapy and the quality of life for the patient. What is now changing is the explosion of opportunities to optimise treatment by conforming the dose to the target volume while sparing non-involved tissue. Numerous improvements in technology, better diagnostic tools, better treatment planning and delivery systems are now available. Institutions everywhere are investing for conformal therapy and as well as intensity-modulated therapy. But the successful application of conformal therapy and IMRT depends on the quality of the target volume definition. The effective application of a well-based knowledge in anatomy and TNM staging, a focused analysis of pathology reports and improved communication with surgeons and other professionals are all parts of a quality target volume definition process. These books offer a survey of the various factors included into the processes with special focus on these factors.
Yours sincerely,
Prof. Dr. I. C. Kiricuta,
Institute of Radiation Oncology · St. Vincenz Hospital
Limburg · Germany
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