Conformal and intensity-modulated radiotherapy for cervical cancer.

Three-dimensional radiotherapy planning techniques, including conformal radiotherapy and intensity-modulated radiotherapy, have potential for improving outcomes in cervical cancer. Accurate target volume definition is essential in order to maximise normal tissue sparing while minimising the risk of a geographical miss. This reduction in toxicity provides the option of dose escalation, particularly with simultaneous integrated boost intensity-modulated radiotherapy. The evidence for the current use and potential applications of these techniques in the treatment of cervical cancer are discussed.