coplanar
Pronunciation: co-PLANE-ar
Treatment fields or beam arrangements that lie within the same geometric plane, typically the transverse plane through the patient.
Full Definition
Coplanar refers to a beam arrangement in radiation therapy where all treatment fields are oriented within a single geometric plane, most commonly the transverse (axial) plane passing through the patient's isocenter. This configuration is the standard approach for many conventional radiation treatments and allows for relatively simple treatment planning and delivery. Coplanar treatments typically involve gantry rotation around the patient while maintaining a fixed couch angle, enabling dose delivery from multiple angles within the same plane to optimize target coverage and normal tissue sparing.
Usage
Usage note: Contrasts with non-coplanar treatments that use multiple planes for potentially better dose distribution.
In Context
- "The coplanar treatment plan used four equally spaced beam angles in the transverse plane." — Treatment planning report
- "Coplanar techniques simplify treatment delivery but may limit dose conformity compared to non-coplanar approaches." — Treatment technique comparison