What is a key reason for obtaining patient contours in radiotherapy?

Obtaining patient contours in radiotherapy is crucial for precise dose calculations in the contour plane. Patient contours represent the external shape of the patient as well as the outlines of tumors and organs at risk. This detailed mapping allows dosimetrists and radiation oncologists to create highly accurate treatment plans tailored to the individual anatomy and positioning of a patient.

By defining the contours, medical professionals can calculate how the radiation will interact with different tissues, ensuring that the prescribed dose is delivered accurately to the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. This precise dosing is essential to maximize treatment efficacy and minimize potential side effects, thus improving patient outcomes.

In addition, while making treatment planning easier and ensuring quicker treatment may be beneficial, these are secondary benefits that stem from having accurate contouring. The primary and most critical function of patient contours is to enable precise dose calculations, which directly influence the treatment's success.