A simple method of radiation treatment of craniospinal fields with patient supine.

Abstract

To describe a procedure for supine craniospinal radiation treatment. The procedure is described as carried out with a 100 cm isocenter linear accelerator and compatible simulator. Treatment is with a single PA directed spinal field abutting lateral directed cranial fields. Abutment of the fields is established by placement, under direct observation, of the edges of the light fields at a mark placed on the anterior skin surface and subtraction of a calculated distance from the collimator readout length of the cranial field. The precision and reproducibility of field edge placement at the abutment line appears to be as good as for treatment in the prone position. This can be verified with port films. Supine craniospinal treatment is a reliable and convenient alternative to treatment in the prone position.