Lesson: Wedges Module
Dynamic Wedges
A dynamic wedge (sometimes referred to as a virtual wedge) is not an insert. A dynamic wedge mimics the dose distribution of a physical wedge by combining an open field with a moving field in which one side of the independent jaw moves continuously across the field. Different wedge angles are produced by different ratios of the open and moving fields.
Universal Wedges
A universal wedge is a single physical wedge used in combination with open unwedged fields to produce a variety of effective wedge angles. The physical wedge is permanently mounted in the linac head and automatically inserted into the treatment beam during beam delivery.
Note: While it is important to know the different types of wedges, it is more important to know the basic function and profiles of a wedge. For the remainder of this module, you will not focus on the types of wedges. You will focus on their effect on treatment planning.
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