Treatment planning in palliative radiotherapy

Palliative radiation therapy (RT) is commonly used for patients with advanced and metastatic cancers to alleviate suffering. However, there is little published literature to guide radiation oncologists through the treatment planning process for palliative RT treatments. In this chapter, we have outlined the process of planning palliative RT treatments from simulation to treatment delivery. To support radiation oncologists in the design of appropriate, effective, and safe palliative RT, the information provided encompasses a broad range of techniques available for use in RT treatment planning.