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On-Board Imager® (OBI) and Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)

An image taken with OBI

What Is On-Boarder® (OBI)*?

OBI employs three different methods of imaging.

One of these methods — called cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) — takes 3D, 360° CT scans of the body while you lay on the treatment couch.

What Are the Benefits of OBI and CBCT Scans?

OBI and CBCT technology:

  • Allow you to stay in one place for both imaging and treatment.
  • Use less radiation than older CT scanners.
  • Are extremely helpful in image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT), making accurate imaging quick and easy.

CBCT is useful for targeting cancers of the:

  • Central nervous system
  • Cervix
  • Gastrointestinal tract
  • Head and neck
  • Lung
  • Pancreas
  • Prostate

How Do Radiation Oncologists Use On-Board Imager Technologies?

Radiation oncologists use OBI technology to image your tumor before therapy, as soon as you're on the treatment table.

This ensures that you and the tumor are at the same position as originally planned.

It also means you don't need to move between imaging and treatment. 

*On-Board Imager is a trademark of Varian Medical Systems, Inc.

Contact Us About Radiation Oncology at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center

To learn more about radiation treatments or to make an appointment you can: