Randomised trial of standard 2D radiotherapy (RT) versus intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) in patients prescribed breast radiotherapy.

Background: Radiation dose distributions created by two dimensional (2D) treatment planning are responsible for partial volumes receiving >107% of the prescribed dose in a proportion of patients prescribed whole breast radiotherapy after tumour excision of early breast cancer. These may contribute to clinically significant late radiation adverse effects.

Aim: To test three dimensional (3D) intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) against 2D dosimetry using standard wedge compensators in terms of late adverse effects after whole breast radiotherapy.