Wedged beams are primarily used for which purpose?

Wedged beams are primarily used to correct for sloping patient surfaces. In clinical practice, when a patient's anatomy or position presents a sloped surface relative to the treatment beam, this can lead to uneven dose distribution. By utilizing a wedge, the dosimetrist can manipulate the beam to ensure a more uniform dose is delivered across the treatment area.

The wedge alters the intensity of the radiation beam, allowing for higher doses to be administered to the deeper or more radiated areas, effectively compensating for the geometry of the tissue being treated. This adjustment is crucial in treatment planning and delivery, as it helps achieve the desired therapeutic effect while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.