Using three-dimensional therapy, radiation oncologists can use numerous beams of radiation to shape the dose around the contours of the tumor so the tumor receives a full dose of radiation, while nearby vital organs and healthy tissue are spared.

During the procedure, the patient is comfortably secured to the table to keep the patient as still as possible helping to ensure the radiation is delivered to the exact location where it is needed. The linear accelerator moves 360 degrees around the patient delivering radiation beams at precise angles. Depending on each patient's individual case, three to five high dose radiation sessions may be planned. Traditionally, low doses of radiation were given over several weeks.

One way radiation oncologists can target a spinal tumor is to use instrumentation, such as screws and rods that neurosurgeons have implanted to stabilize the spine. Radiation oncologists can effectively target and use these screws and rods in real time to direct radiation beams to the precise location of the tumor.