Which imaging technique can be fused with CT imaging for improved treatment planning?

MRI is a powerful imaging technique that can be fused with CT imaging for enhanced treatment planning, especially in radiation therapy. The primary advantage of this fusion lies in the complementary information that each modality provides.

CT imaging offers excellent spatial resolution and is particularly effective in visualizing bony anatomy and calculating radiation doses, while MRI excels in providing high-contrast images of soft tissues, thus allowing for a more detailed view of tumor boundaries and surrounding organs. By combining these two imaging techniques, clinicians are able to better delineate tumors and identify critical structures, ultimately leading to more precise treatment planning and improved outcomes for patients.

This integration is particularly beneficial in scenarios such as brain tumor treatment, where understanding both the anatomy and the tumor's relationship to surrounding structures is crucial for effective therapy.