External beam therapy (EBT) is a method for delivering high-energy x-ray or electron beams to a patient's tumor. Beams are usually generated by a linear accelerator and targeted to destroy cancer cells while sparing surrounding normal tissues. EBT also may be used to relieve symptoms in patients with advanced cancer or cancer that has metastasized.
To prepare for EBT, your doctor will perform a physical exam and use CT scanning to conduct a treatment simulation session.