For which purpose is a "custom block" used during treatment?

A custom block is specifically designed to shape and modulate the radiation beam allowing for precise delivery of treatment to a targeted area while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. This is crucial in radiation therapy, where the goal is to maximize the dose to the tumor while protecting adjacent organs and tissues at risk.

When using a custom block, it is tailored to conform to the contours of the tumor or the treatment field requirements. This targeting helps in achieving optimal dose distribution and ensures that the radiation is concentrated on the intended area. The use of these blocks contributes to the overall effectiveness of the treatment, making them a vital tool in the planning and delivery of radiation therapy.

While simplifying the treatment process and adjusting patient positioning are important aspects of radiotherapy workflow, they do not encapsulate the primary function of a custom block. Similarly, while a custom block may interfere with the radiation field to protect surrounding tissues, its primary role is to focus and direct radiation towards the cancerous target.