What is biological treatment planning for radiation therapy?

[ammeygadley]

My father is undergoing radiation therapy for colon cancer. His radiation oncologist mentioned biological treatment planning, and we've seen references to it on the Internet. What does this mean?

I did ask the same question here
http://www.caring.com/questions/biological-treatment-planning-for-radiation-therapy

but looking for more answers.

Thank you

Ammey

[leapyrtwins]

Ammey -

I don't know the answer to your question - someone else here might - but do you realize this is a discussion Forum for patients/caregivers with Acoustic Neuromas?

Acoustic Neuromas are non-cancerous tumors that grow in the inner ear canal.  Although they can be treated by radiation - and it usually involves a radiation oncologist - I'm not sure radiation therapy for ANs and colon cancer is the same thing.

I wish your father nothing but the best and hope you find the answers that you seek.

Best,

Jan

[Jim Scott]

Amney ~

Biological Treatment Planning - in regard to radiation-  is, in simple terms, the doctor's plan as to how to make the radiation efficacious.  It can get a bit complicated but I'm sure the radiation oncologist can explain it for you and/or your father.  As acoustic neuroma patients (we're not doctors) our collective knowledge of radiation procedures is necessarily limited to that which affects the treatment of ANs  - which are the only focus of this website and the forums.   

Thanks for your interest and I trust we've been able to provide a bit of help to you. 

Jim