Multileaf collimator

Multileaf Collimator

A Multileaf Collimator (pronounced: mul-ti-leaf kuh-lim-uh-ter) is a device used in radiation therapy to shape the radiation beam to match the shape of the tumor. The term originates from the Latin multus meaning "many", and collimator which comes from the Latin collimare meaning "to aim".

Function

The Multileaf Collimator consists of numerous (typically between 30 and 120) individual leaves which can be independently moved to block or allow the passage of radiation. This allows the radiation beam to be shaped to closely match the three-dimensional shape of the tumor, minimizing the amount of healthy tissue exposed to radiation.

Types

There are two main types of Multileaf Collimators: the binary multileaf collimator and the intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) multileaf collimator. The binary multileaf collimator can only be fully open or fully closed, while the IMRT multileaf collimator can be partially open, allowing for a more precise control of the radiation dose.

Use in Radiation Therapy

In radiation therapy, the Multileaf Collimator is used to shape the radiation beam to match the shape of the tumor. This is done by moving the individual leaves of the collimator to block or allow the passage of radiation. This allows for a more precise delivery of radiation, minimizing the amount of healthy tissue exposed to radiation.

Related Terms

Radiation Therapy: The use of radiation to treat diseases, most commonly cancer.
Tumor: An abnormal growth of cells that can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
Binary Multileaf Collimator: A type of Multileaf Collimator that can only be fully open or fully closed.
Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT): A type of radiation therapy that uses a computer-controlled linear accelerator to deliver precise radiation doses to a malignant tumor or specific areas within the tumor.