bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of 4D CT acquisition methods designed to reduce artifacts
Authors: Castillo Sarah J. , Castillo Richard , Castillo Edward , Pan Tinsu , Ibbott Geoffrey , Balter Peter , Hobbs Brian , Guerrero Thomas
Published: February 2017

Four‐dimensional computed tomography (4D CT) is used to account for respiratory motion in radiation treatment planning, but artifacts resulting from the acquisition and postprocessing limit its accuracy. We investigated the efficacy of three experimental 4D CT acquisition methods to reduce artifacts in a prospective institutional review board approved study. Eighteen thoracic patients scheduled to undergo radiation therapy received standard clinical 4D CT scans followed by each of the alternative 4D CT acquisitions: 1) data oversampling, 2) beam gating with breathing irregularities, and 3) rescanning the clinical acquisition acquired during irregular breathing. Relative values of a validated correlation‐based artifact metric (CM) determined the best acquisition method per patient. Each 4D CT was processed by an extended phase sorting approach that optimizes the quantitative artifact metric (CM sorting). The clinical acquisitions were also postprocessed by phase sorting for artifact comparison of our current clinical implementation with the experimental methods. The oversampling acquisition achieved the lowest artifact presence among all acquisitions, achieving a 27% reduction from the current clinical 4D CT implementation (). The rescan method presented a significantly higher artifact presence from the clinical acquisition (37%; ), the gating acquisition (26%; ), and the oversampling acquisition (31%; ), while the data lacked evidence of a significant difference between the clinical, gating, and oversampling methods. The oversampling acquisition reduced artifact presence from the current clinical 4D CT implementation to the largest degree and provided the simplest and most reproducible implementation. The rescan acquisition increased artifact presence significantly, compared to all acquisitions, and suffered from combination of data from independent scans over which large internal anatomic shifts occurred.

PACS numbers: 87.57.C‐, 87.57.cp, 87.57.Q‐, 87.55.Gh
Moving gantry method for electron beam dose profile measurement at extended source‐to‐surface distances
Authors: Fekete Gábor , Fodor Emese , Pesznyák Csilla
Published: February 2017

A novel method has been put forward for very large electron beam profile measurement. With this method, absorbed dose profiles can be measured at any depth in a solid phantom for total skin electron therapy. Electron beam dose profiles were collected with two different methods. Profile measurements were performed at 0.2 and 1.2 cm depths with a parallel plate and a thimble chamber, respectively. and projected size electron beams were scanned by vertically moving phantom and detector at 300 cm source‐to‐surface distance with 90° and 270° gantry angles. The profiles collected this way were used as reference. Afterwards, the phantom was fixed on the central axis and the gantry was rotated with certain angular steps. After applying correction for the different source‐to‐detector distances and incidence of angle, the profiles measured in the two different setups were compared. Correction formalism has been developed. The agreement between the cross profiles taken at the depth of maximum dose with the ‘classical’ scanning and with the new moving gantry method was better than 0.5 % in the measuring range from zero to 71.9 cm. Inverse square and attenuation corrections had to be applied. The profiles measured with the parallel plate chamber agree better than 1%, except for the penumbra region, where the maximum difference is 1.5%. With the moving gantry method, very large electron field profiles can be measured at any depth in a solid phantom with high accuracy and reproducibility and with much less time per step. No special instrumentation is needed. The method can be used for commissioning of very large electron beams for computer‐assisted treatment planning, for designing beam modifiers to improve dose uniformity, and for verification of computed dose profiles.

PACS numbers: 87.53.Bn, 87.53.Jw, 87.56.jf
CT image quality over time: comparison of image quality for six different CT scanners over a six‐year period
Authors: Roa Ana Maria A. , Andersen Hilde K. , Martinsen Anne Catrine T.
Published: February 2017

UNSCEAR concluded that increased use of CT scanning caused dramatic changes in population dose. Therefore, international radiation protection authorities demand: 1) periodical quality assurance tests with respect to image quality and radiation dose, and 2) optimization of all examination protocols with respect to image quality and radiation dose. This study aimed to evaluate and analyze multiple image quality parameters and variability measured throughout time for six different CT scanners from four different vendors, in order to evaluate the current methodology for QA controls of CT systems. The results from this study indicate that there is minor drifting in the image noise and uniformity and in the spatial resolution over time for CT scanners, independent of vendors. The HU for different object densities vary between different CT scanner models from different vendors, and over time for one specific CT scanner. Future tests of interphantom and intraphantom variations, along with inclusion of more CT scanners, are necessary to establish robust baselines and recommendations of methodology for QA controls of CT systems, independent of model and vendor.

PACS number: 07, 87
Intrafractional prostate motion during external beam radiotherapy monitored by a real‐time target localization system
Authors: Tong Xu , Chen Xiaoming , Li Jinsheng , Xu Qianqian , Lin Mu‐han , Chen Lili , Price Robert A. , Ma Chang‐Ming
Published: February 2017

This paper investigates the clinical significance of real‐time monitoring of intrafractional prostate motion during external beam radiotherapy using a commercial 4D localization system. Intrafractional prostate motion was tracked during 8,660 treatment fractions for 236 patients. The following statistics were analyzed: 1) the percentage of fractions in which the prostate shifted for a certain duration; 2) the proportion of the entire tracking time during which the prostate shifted ; and 3) the proportion of each minute in which the shift exceeded . The ten patients exhibiting maximum intrafractional‐motion patterns were analyzed separately. Our results showed that the percentage of fractions in which the prostate shifted by off the baseline in any direction for was 56.8%, 27.2%, 4.6%, and 0.7% for intact prostate and 68.7%, 35.6%, 10.1%, and 1.8% for postprostatectomy patients, respectively. For the ten patients, these percentages were 91.3%, 72.4%, 36.3%, and 6%, respectively. The percentage of tracking time during which the prostate shifted was 27.8%, 10.7%, 1.6%, and 0.3%, respectively, and it was 56.2%, 33.7%, 11.2%, and 2.1%, respectively, for the ten patients. The percentage of tracking time for a posterior motion was four to five times higher than that in other directions. For treatments completed in 5 min (VMAT) and 10 min (IMRT), the proportion for the prostate to shift by was 4% and 12%, respectively. Although intrafractional prostate motion was generally small, caution should be taken for patients who exhibit frequent large intrafractional motion. For those patients, adjustment of patient positioning may be necessary or a larger treatment margin may be used. After the initial alignment, the likelihood of prostate motion increases with time. Therefore, it is favorable to use advanced techniques (e.g., VMAT) that require less delivery time in order to reduce the treatment uncertainty resulting from intrafractional prostate motion.

PACS number: 87.50.S‐, 87.53.Kn, 87.55.N‐, 87.55.ne
Estimation of patient setup uncertainty using BrainLAB Exatrac X‐Ray 6D system in image‐guided radiotherapy
Authors: Infusino Erminia , Trodella Lucio , Ramella Sara , D'Angelillo Rolando M. , Greco Carlo , Iurato Aurelia , Trodella Luca E. , Nacca Alessandro , Cornacchione Patrizia , Mameli Alessandra
Published: February 2017

The purpose of this study was to evaluate setup uncertainties for brain sites with ExacTrac X‐Ray 6D system and to provide optimal margin guidelines. Fifteen patients with brain tumor were included in this study. Two X‐ray images with ExacTrac X‐Ray 6D system were used to verify patient position and tumor target localization before each treatment. The 6D fusion software first generates various sets of DRRs with position variations in both three translational and three rotational directions (six degrees of freedom) for the CT images. Setup variations (translation and rotation) after correction were recorded and corrected before treatment. The 3D deviations are expressed as . The random error , systematic error , and group systematic error for the different X‐ray were calculated using the definitions of van Herk.(1) Mean setup errors were calculated from X‐ray images acquired after all fractions. There is moderate patient‐to‐patient variation in the vertical direction and small variations in systematic errors and magnitudes of random errors are smaller. The global systematic errors were measured to be less than 2.0 mm in each direction. Random component of all patients are smaller ranging from 0.1–0.3 mm small. The safety margin (SM) to the lateral, is 0.5 mm and 2.6 mm for van Herk(1) and Stroom et al.,(2) respectively, craniocaudal axis is 1.5 mm and 3.4 mm, respectively, and with respect to the antero–posterior axis, 2.3 mm and 3.9 mm. Daily X‐ray imaging is essential to compare and assess the accuracy of treatment delivery to different anatomical locations.

PACS number: 87.55.D
Evaluation and mitigation of potential errors in radiochromic film dosimetry due to film curvature at scanning
Authors: Palmer Antony L. , Bradley David A. , Nisbet Andrew
Published: February 2017

This work considers a previously overlooked uncertainty present in film dosimetry which results from moderate curvature of films during the scanning process. Small film samples are particularly susceptible to film curling which may be undetected or deemed insignificant. In this study, we consider test cases with controlled induced curvature of film and with film raised horizontally above the scanner plate. We also evaluate the difference in scans of a film irradiated with a typical brachytherapy dose distribution with the film naturally curved and with the film held flat on the scanner. Typical naturally occurring curvature of film at scanning, giving rise to a maximum height 1 to 2 mm above the scan plane, may introduce dose errors of 1% to 4%, and considerably reduce gamma evaluation passing rates when comparing film‐measured doses with treatment planning system‐calculated dose distributions, a common application of film dosimetry in radiotherapy. The use of a triple‐channel dosimetry algorithm appeared to mitigate the error due to film curvature compared to conventional single‐channel film dosimetry. The change in pixel value and calibrated reported dose with film curling or height above the scanner plate may be due to variations in illumination characteristics, optical disturbances, or a Callier‐type effect. There is a clear requirement for physically flat films at scanning to avoid the introduction of a substantial error source in film dosimetry. Particularly for small film samples, a compression glass plate above the film is recommended to ensure flat‐film scanning. This effect has been overlooked to date in the literature.

PACS numbers: 87.55.Qr, 87.56.bg, 87.55.km
Commissioning and quality assurance for the treatment delivery components of the AccuBoost system
Authors: Iftimia Ileana , Talmadge Mike , Ladd Ron , Halvorsen Per
Published: February 2017

The objective for this work was to develop a commissioning methodology for the treatment delivery components of the AccuBoost system, as well as to establish a routine quality assurance program and appropriate guidance for clinical use based on the commissioning results. Various tests were developed: 1) assessment of the accuracy of the displayed separation value; 2) validation of the dwell positions within each applicator; 3) assessment of the accuracy and precision of the applicator localization system; 4) assessment of the combined dose profile of two opposed applicators to confirm that they are coaxial; 5) measurement of the absolute dose delivered with each applicator to confirm acceptable agreement with dose based on Monte Carlo modeling; 6) measurements of the skin‐to‐center dose ratio using optically stimulated luminescence dosimeters; and 7) assessment of the mammopad cushion's effect on the center dose. We found that the difference between the measured and the actual paddle separation is for the separation range of 3 cm to 7.5 cm. Radiochromic film measurements demonstrated that the number of dwell positions inside the applicators agree with the values from the vendor, for each applicator type and size. The shift needed for a good applicator‐grid alignment was within 0.2 cm. The dry‐run test using film demonstrated that the shift of the dosimetric center is within 0.15 cm. Dose measurements in water converted to polystyrene agreed within 5.0% with the Monte Carlo data in polystyrene for the same applicator type, size, and depth. A solid water‐to‐water (phantom) factor was obtained for each applicator, and all future annual quality assurance tests will be performed in solid water using an average value of 1.07 for the solid water‐to‐water factor. The skin‐to‐center dose ratio measurements support the Monte Carlo‐based values within 5.0% agreement. For the treatment separation range of 4 cm to 8 cm, the change in center dose would be for all applicators when using a compressed pad of 0.2 cm to 0.3 cm. The tests performed ensured that all treatment components of the AccuBoost system are functional and that a treatment plan can be delivered with acceptable accuracy. Based on the commissioning results, a quality assurance manual and guidance documents for clinical use were developed.

PACS numbers: 87.55.Qr, 87.56.Da, 87.90.+y
Commissioning a 50–100 kV X‐ray unit for skin cancer treatment
Authors: Sheu Ren‐Dih , Powers Allison , Lo Yeh‐Chi
Published: February 2017

This study provides the authors' experience along with dosimetric data from the commissioning of two Sensus SRT‐100 50‐100 kV X‐ray units. Data collected during the commissioning process included: a) HVL, b) output (dose rate), c) applicator cone factors, and d) percentage depth dose. A Farmer‐type chamber (PTW‐N23333), and a thin‐window parallel plate ion chamber (PTW‐N23342) were used for dose rate measurements and dose profiles were measured with EBT3 GafChromic film. The average HVL values for 50, 70, and 100 kV of the two treatment units were found to be 0.52, 1.15, and 2.20 mm Al, respectively. The HVL's were 5%–9% lower when measured with the Farmer chamber, as compared to measurements with the parallel plate chamber, for energies of 70 and 100 kV. Dose rates were also measured to be 3%–4% lower with the Farmer chamber. The dose rate variation between the two units was found to be 2%–9% for 50, 70, and 100 kV. The dose uniformity over a circle of 2 cm diameter was within 4% in four cardinal directions; however, the dose profiles for the 5 cm applicator were nonuniform, especially in the cathode–anode direction. Measurements indicated as much as 15% lower dose for the 50 kV beam at field edge on the anode side, when normalized to the center. The crossline profile was relatively more symmetric, with a maximum deviation of 10% at the field edge. All ion chamber readings agreed with film measurements within 3%. The nonuniform profile produced by these units may introduce uncertainty in dose rate measurements, especially for larger applicators. Since there is no intrinsic tool (crosshair or field light) for alignment with the beam axis, the user should take care when positioning the chamber for output measurements. The data obtained with a Farmer‐type chamber should be used cautiously and as a reference only for the SRT‐100 X‐ray treatment unit.

PACS number: 87.53.Bn
Dosimetric validation and clinical implementation of two 3D dose verification systems for quality assurance in volumetric‐modulated arc therapy techniques
Authors: Clemente‐Gutiérrez Francisco , Pérez‐Vara Consuelo
Published: February 2017

A pretreatment quality assurance program for volumetric techniques should include redundant calculations and measurement‐based verifications. The patient‐specific quality assurance process must be based in clinically relevant metrics. The aim of this study was to show the commission, clinical implementation, and comparison of two systems that allow performing a 3D redundant dose calculation. In addition, one of them is capable of reconstructing the dose on patient anatomy from measurements taken with a 2D ion chamber array. Both systems were compared in terms of reference calibration data (absolute dose, output factors, percentage depth‐dose curves, and profiles). Results were in good agreement for absolute dose values (discrepancies were below 0.5%) and output factors (mean differences were below 1%). Maximum mean discrepancies were located between 10 and 20 cm of depth for PDDs (‐2.7%) and in the penumbra region for profiles (mean DTA of 1.5 mm). Validation of the systems was performed by comparing point‐dose measurements with values obtained by the two systems for static, dynamic fields from AAPM TG‐119 report, and 12 real VMAT plans for different anatomical sites (differences better than 1.2%). Comparisons between measurements taken with a 2D ion chamber array and results obtained by both systems for real VMAT plans were also performed (mean global gamma passing rates better than 87.0% and 97.9% for the and criteria). Clinical implementation of the systems was evaluated by comparing dose‐volume parameters for all TG‐119 tests and real VMAT plans with TPS values (mean differences were below 1%). In addition, comparisons between dose distributions calculated by TPS and those extracted by the two systems for real VMAT plans were also performed (mean global gamma passing rates better than 86.0% and 93.0% for the and criteria). The clinical use of both systems was successfully evaluated.

PACS numbers: 87.56.Fc, 87.56.‐v, 87.55.dk, 87.55.Qr, 87.55.‐x, 07.57.Kp, 85.25.Pb
Initial clinical experience with a radiation oncology dedicated open 1.0T MR‐simulation
Authors: Glide‐Hurst Carri K. , Wen Ning , Hearshen David , Kim Joshua , Pantelic Milan , Zhao Bo , Mancell Tina , Levin Kenneth , Movsas Benjamin , Chetty Indrin J. , Siddiqui M. Salim
Published: February 2017

The purpose of this study was to describe our experience with 1.0T MR‐SIM including characterization, quality assurance (QA) program, and features necessary for treatment planning. Staffing, safety, and patient screening procedures were developed. Utilization of an external laser positioning system (ELPS) and MR‐compatible couchtop were illustrated. Spatial and volumetric analyses were conducted between CT‐SIM and MR‐SIM using a stereotactic QA phantom with known landmarks and volumes. Magnetic field inhomogeneity was determined using phase difference analysis. System‐related, in‐plane distortion was evaluated and temporal changes were assessed. 3D distortion was characterized for regions of interest (ROIs) away from isocenter. American College of Radiology (ACR) recommended tests and impact of ELPS on image quality were analyzed. Combined ultrashort echotime Dixon (UTE/Dixon) sequence was evaluated. Amplitude‐triggered 4D MRI was implemented using a motion phantom (2–10 phases, excursion, 3–5 s periods) and a liver cancer patient. Duty cycle, acquisition time, and excursion were evaluated between maximum intensity projection (MIP) datasets. Less than 2% difference from expected was obtained between CT‐SIM and MR‐SIM volumes, with a mean distance of between landmarks. Magnetic field inhomogeneity was . 2D distortion was over of isocenter. Within 5 cm radius of isocenter, mean 3D geometric distortion was () and increased from isocenter (, ). ELPS interference was within the operating frequency of the scanner and was characterized by line patterns and a reduction in signal‐to‐noise ratio (4.6–12.6% for ). Image quality checks were within ACR recommendations. UTE/Dixon sequences yielded detectability between bone and air. For 4D MRI, faster breathing periods had higher duty cycles than slow (50.4% (3 s) and 39.4% (5 s), ) and ~ fourfold acquisition time increase was measured for ten‐phase versus two‐phase. Superior–inferior object extent was underestimated 8% (6 mm) for two‐phase as compared to ten‐phase MIPs, although difference was obtained for phases. 4D MRI for a patient demonstrated acceptable image quality in . MR‐SIM was integrated into our workflow and QA procedures were developed. Clinical applicability was demonstrated for 4D MRI and UTE imaging to support MR‐SIM for single modality treatment planning.

PACS numbers: 87.56.Fc, 87.61.‐c, 87.57.cp
Measurement‐guided volumetric dose reconstruction for helical tomotherapy
Authors: Stambaugh Cassandra , Nelms Benjamin , Wolf Theresa , Mueller Richard , Geurts Mark , Opp Daniel , Zhang Geoffrey , Moros Eduardo , Feygelman Vladimir
Published: February 2017

It was previously demonstrated that dose delivered by a conventional linear accelerator using IMRT or VMAT can be reconstructed — on patient or phantom datasets — using helical diode array measurements and a technique called planned dose perturbation (PDP). This allows meaningful and intuitive analysis of the agreement between the planned and delivered dose, including direct comparison of the dose‐volume histograms. While conceptually similar to modulated arc techniques, helical tomotherapy introduces significant challenges to the PDP formalism, arising primarily from TomoTherapy delivery dynamics. The temporal characteristics of the delivery are of the same order or shorter than the dosimeter's update interval (50 ms). Additionally, the prevalence of often small and complex segments, particularly with the 1 cm Y jaw setting, lead to challenges related to detector spacing. Here, we present and test a novel method of tomotherapy‐PDP (TPDP) designed to meet these challenges. One of the novel techniques introduced for TPDP is organization of the subbeams into larger subunits called sectors, which assures more robust synchronization of the measurement and delivery dynamics. Another important change is the optional application of a correction based on ion chamber (IC) measurements in the phantom. The TPDP method was validated by direct comparisons to the IC and an independent, biplanar diode array dosimeter previously evaluated for tomotherapy delivery quality assurance. Nineteen plans with varying complexity were analyzed for the 2.5 cm tomotherapy jaw setting and 18 for the 1 cm opening. The dose differences between the TPDP and IC were and , for 2.5 and 1.0 cm jaw plans, respectively. Gamma analysis agreement rates between TPDP and the independent array were: (using 3% global normalization/3 mm criteria) and (using 2% global/2 mm) for the 2.5 cm jaw plans; for 1 cm plans, they were (3% G/3) and (2% G/2). We conclude that TPDP is capable of volumetric dose reconstruction with acceptable accuracy. However, the challenges of fast tomotherapy delivery dynamics make TPDP less precise than the IMRT/VMAT PDP version, particularly for the 1 cm jaw setting.

PACS number: 87.55Qr
SPARSE: Seed Point Auto‐Generation for Random Walks Segmentation Enhancement in medical inhomogeneous targets delineation of morphological MR and CT images
Authors: Chen Haibin , Zhen Xin , Gu Xuejun , Yan Hao , Cervino Laura , Xiao Yang , Zhou Linghong
Published: February 2017

In medical image processing, robust segmentation of inhomogeneous targets is a challenging problem. Because of the complexity and diversity in medical images, the commonly used semiautomatic segmentation algorithms usually fail in the segmentation of inhomogeneous objects. In this study, we propose a novel algorithm imbedded with a seed point autogeneration for random walks segmentation enhancement, namely SPARSE, for better segmentation of inhomogeneous objects. With a few user‐labeled points, SPARSE is able to generate extended seed points by estimating the probability of each voxel with respect to the labels. The random walks algorithm is then applied upon the extended seed points to achieve improved segmentation result. SPARSE is implemented under the compute unified device architecture (CUDA) programming environment on graphic processing unit (GPU) hardware platform. Quantitative evaluations are performed using clinical homogeneous and inhomogeneous cases. It is found that the SPARSE can greatly decrease the sensitiveness to initial seed points in terms of location and quantity, as well as the freedom of selecting parameters in edge weighting function. The evaluation results of SPARSE also demonstrate substantial improvements in accuracy and robustness to inhomogeneous target segmentation over the original random walks algorithm.

PACS number: 87.57.nm
Potential of 3D printing technologies for fabrication of electron bolus and proton compensators
Authors: Zou Wei , Fisher Ted , Zhang Miao , Kim Leonard , Chen Ting , Narra Venkat , Swann Beth , Singh Rachana , Siderit Richard , Yin Lingshu , Teo Boon‐keng Kevin , Mckenna Michael , McDonough James , Ning Yue J.
Published: February 2017

In electron and proton radiotherapy, applications of patient‐specific electron bolus or proton compensators during radiation treatments are often necessary to accommodate patient body surface irregularities, tissue inhomogeneity, and variations in PTV depths to achieve desired dose distributions. Emerging 3D printing technologies provide alternative fabrication methods for these bolus and compensators. This study investigated the potential of utilizing 3D printing technologies for the fabrication of the electron bolus and proton compensators. Two printing technologies, fused deposition modeling (FDM) and selective laser sintering (SLS), and two printing materials, PLA and polyamide, were investigated. Samples were printed and characterized with CT scan and under electron and proton beams. In addition, a software package was developed to convert electron bolus and proton compensator designs to printable Standard Tessellation Language file format. A phantom scalp electron bolus was printed with FDM technology with PLA material. The HU of the printed electron bolus was . A prostate patient proton compensator was printed with SLS technology and polyamide material with HU. The profiles of the electron bolus and proton compensator were compared with the original designs. The average over all the CT slices of the largest Euclidean distance between the design and the fabricated bolus on each CT slice was found to be and for the compensator to be . It is recommended that the properties of specific 3D printed objects are understood before being applied to radiotherapy treatments.

PACS number: 81.40
Use of 3D printers to create a patient‐specific 3D bolus for external beam therapy
Authors: Burleson Sarah , Baker Jamie , Hsia An Ting , Xu Zhigang
Published: February 2017

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate that an inexpensive 3D printer can be used to manufacture patient‐specific bolus for external beam therapy, and to show we can accurately model this printed bolus in our treatment planning system for accurate treatment delivery. Percent depth‐dose measurements and tissue maximum ratios were used to determine the characteristics of the printing materials, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene and polylactic acid, as bolus material with physical density of 1.04 and , and electron density of and , respectively. Dose plane comparisons using Gafchromic EBT2 film and the RANDO phantom were used to verify accurate treatment planning. We accurately modeled a printing material in Eclipse treatment planning system, assigning it a Hounsfield unit of 260. We were also able to verify accurate treatment planning using gamma analysis for dose plane comparisons. With gamma criteria of 5% dose difference and 2 mm DTA, we were able to have 86.5% points passing, and with gamma criteria of 5% dose difference and 3 mm DTA, we were able to have 95% points passing. We were able to create a patient‐specific bolus using an inexpensive 3D printer and model it in our treatment planning system for accurate treatment delivery.

PACS numbers: 87.53.Jw, 87.53.Kn, 87.56.ng
Tangent field technique of TomoDirect improves dose distribution for whole‐breast irradiation
Authors: Hashimoto Harumitsu , Omura Motoko , Matsui Kengo , Mukai Yuki , Hongo Hideyuki , Yamakabe Wataru , Saito Kaori , Yoshida Miwa
Published: February 2017

TomoDirect (TD) is an intensity‐modulated radiotherapy system that uses a fixed gantry angle instead of rotational beam delivery. Here, we investigated the effect of the multiple beam technique of TomoDirect on dose distribution compared with commonly‐used tangential beams. We included 45 consecutive patients with right breast cancer who underwent postoperative radiotherapy in our institute in the present study. Clinical target volume (CTV) was the whole right breast. The planning target volume (PTV) was created by expanding the CTV by a 0.5 cm margin. Paired TD plans were generated for each patient; a two‐beam plan using paired tangential beams and a six‐beam plan with four additional beams with modified gantry angles of from the original tangential beam set. A prescribed dose of 50 Gy was defined for 50% isodoses of the PTV. The six‐beam plan delivered significantly more homogeneous doses to the PTV than the two‐beam plan; and the mean dose to the PTV in the six‐beam plan more closely reflected the prescribed dose. and mean dose to the right lung and mean dose to the whole body were also significantly decreased in the six‐beam plan. However, duration of radiation exposure was 1 min longer in the six‐beam plan than in the two‐beam plan. The dose distribution to the target and organs at risk were improved with the six‐beam plan relative to the two‐beam plan without increasing the whole‐body radiation dose. The six‐beam plan using TD is a simple technique that can be routinely applied to whole‐breast irradiation in clinical practice.

PACS number: 87.55
Evaluation of Dosimetry Check software for IMRT patient‐specific quality assurance
Authors: Narayanasamy Ganesh , Zalman Travis , Ha Chul S. , Papanikolaou Niko , Stathakis Sotirios
Published: February 2017

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the use of the Dosimetry Check system for patient‐specific IMRT QA. Typical QA methods measure the dose in an array dosimeter surrounded by homogenous medium for which the treatment plan has been recomputed. With the Dosimetry Check system, fluence measurements acquired on a portal dosimeter is applied to the patient's CT scans. Instead of making dose comparisons in a plane, Dosimetry Check system produces isodose lines and dose‐volume histograms based on the planning CT images. By exporting the dose distribution from the treatment planning system into the Dosimetry Check system, one is able to make a direct comparison between the calculated dose and the planned dose. The versatility of the software is evaluated with respect to the two IMRT techniques — step and shoot and volumetric arc therapy. The system analyzed measurements made using EPID, PTW seven29, and IBA MatriXX, and an intercomparison study was performed. Plans from patients previously treated at our institution with treated anatomical site on brain, head & neck, liver, lung, and prostate were analyzed using Dosimetry Check system for any anatomical site dependence. We have recommendations and possible precautions that may be necessary to ensure proper QA with the Dosimetry Check system.

PACS number: 87.55.Qr, 87.56.Fc
Medical Physics Practice Guideline 4.a: Development, implementation, use and maintenance of safety checklists
Authors: de los Santos E. Fong , Evans Suzanne , Ford Eric C. , Gaiser James E. , Hayden Sandra E. , Huffman Kristina E. , Johnson Jennifer L. , Mechalakos James G. , Stern Robin L. , Terezakis Stephanie , Thomadsen Bruce R. , Pronovost Peter J. , Fairobent Lynne A.
Published: February 2017

The American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM) is a nonprofit professional society whose primary purposes are to advance the science, education and professional practice of medical physics. The AAPM has more than 8,000 members and is the principal organization of medical physicists in the United States.

The AAPM will periodically define new practice guidelines for medical physics practice to help advance the science of medical physics and to improve the quality of service to patients throughout the United States. Existing medical physics practice guidelines will be reviewed for the purpose of revision or renewal, as appropriate, on their fifth anniversary or sooner.

Each medical physics practice guideline represents a policy statement by the AAPM, has undergone a thorough consensus process in which it has been subjected to extensive review, and requires the approval of the Professional Council. The medical physics practice guidelines recognize that the safe and effective use of diagnostic and therapeutic radiology requires specific training, skills, and techniques, as described in each document. Reproduction or modification of the published practice guidelines and technical standards by those entities not providing these services is not authorized.

The following terms are used in the AAPM practice guidelines:

Must and Must Not: Used to indicate that adherence to the recommendation is considered necessary to conform to this practice guideline.

Should and Should Not: Used to indicate a prudent practice to which exceptions may occasionally be made in appropriate circumstances.
Implementation and evaluation of a protocol management system for automated review of CT protocols
Authors: Grimes Joshua , Leng Shuai , Zhang Yi , Vrieze Thomas , McCollough Cynthia
Published: February 2017

Protocol review is important to decrease the risk of patient injury and increase the consistency of CT image quality. A large volume of CT protocols makes manual review labor‐intensive, error‐prone, and costly. To address these challenges, we have developed a software system for automatically managing and monitoring CT protocols on a frequent basis. This article describes our experiences in the implementation and evaluation of this protocol monitoring system. In particular, we discuss various strategies for addressing each of the steps in our protocol‐monitoring workflow, which are: maintaining an accurate set of master protocols, retrieving protocols from the scanners, comparing scanner protocols to master protocols, reviewing flagged differences between the scanner and master protocols, and updating the scanner and/or master protocols. In our initial evaluation focusing only on abdomen and pelvis protocols, we detected 309 modified protocols in a 24‐week trial period. About one‐quarter of these modified protocols were determined to contain inappropriate (i.e., erroneous) protocol parameter modifications that needed to be corrected on the scanner. The most frequently affected parameter was the series description, which was inappropriately modified 47 times. Two inappropriate modifications were made to the tube current, which is particularly important to flag as this parameter impacts both radiation dose and image quality. The CT protocol changes detected in this work provide strong motivation for the use of an automated CT protocol quality control system to ensure protocol accuracy and consistency.

PACS number(s): 87.57.Q‐
Clinical implementation of the AAPM Task Group 36 recommendations on fetal dose from radiotherapy with photon beams: A head and neck irradiation case report
Authors: Prado Karl L. , Nelson Stephen J. , Nuyttens Joost J. , Williams Todd E. , Vanek Kenneth N.
Published: February 2017

We present the results of our efforts in estimating and diminishing the fetal dose expected when a 29‐year‐old patient, 22 weeks pregnant, received external beam radiation therapy for a squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue. We explain our use of the information contained, and recommendations made, in the Report of the American Association of Physicists in Medicine Radiation Therapy Committee Task Group 36 [Med. Phys. 22, 63–82 (1995)]. We also explain our dose estimation, describe our validation measurements, and demonstrate the effectiveness of supplemental shielding. Consequently, this case report will serve as a guide to radiation oncologists and medical physicists who may encounter similar cases.

PACS number(s): 87.53.–j, 87.52.–g
Beam‐commissioning methodology for a three‐dimensional convolution/superposition photon dose algorithm
Authors: Starkschall George , Steadham Roy E. , Popple Richard A. , Ahmad Salahuddin , Rosen Isaac I.
Published: February 2017

Commissioning beam data for the convolution/superposition dose‐calculation algorithm used in a commercial three‐dimensional radiation treatment planning (3D RTP) system (, ADAC Laboratories, Milpitas, CA) can be difficult and time consuming. Sixteen adjustable parameters, as well as spectral weights representing a discrete energy spectrum, must be fit to sets of central‐axis depth doses and off‐axis profiles for a large number of field sizes. This paper presents the beam‐commissioning methodology that we used to generate accurate beam models. The methodology is relatively rapid and provides physically reasonable values for beam parameters. The methodology was initiated by using vendor‐provided automodeling software to generate a single set of beam parameters that gives an approximate fit to relative dose distributions for all beams, open and wedged, in a data set. A limited number of beam parameters were adjusted by small amounts to give accurate beam models for four open‐beam field sizes and three wedged‐beam field sizes. Beam parameters for other field sizes were interpolated and validated against measured beam data. Using this methodology, a complete set of beam parameters for a single energy can be generated and validated in approximately 40 h. The resulting parameter values yielded calculated relative doses that matched measured relative doses in a water phantom to within 0.5–1.0% along the central axis and 2% along off‐axis beam profiles for field sizes from to the largest field size available. While the methodology presented is specific to the ADAC treatment planning system, the approach should apply to other implementations of the dose model in other treatment planning system.

PACS number(s): 87.53.–j, 87.66.–a
Quality Assurance of Beam Accuracy for Leksell Gamma Unit
Authors: Yu Cheng , Petrovich Zbigniew , Luxton Gary
Published: February 2017

For the acceptance test and annual quality assurance of the Leksell Gamma Unit, measurement of the beam accuracy, defined as a distance between mechanical and radiological isocenters, poses a challenge to medical physicists. The specification for the beam accuracy is within 0.5 mm for the 4‐mm collimator helmet. In this report, we introduce a simple technique to analyze the beam accuracy by using a conventional film densitometer plus mathematical modeling. A small piece of film was placed inside the film cassette containing a sharp needle. The needle is located such that its tip is exactly positioned at the mechanical isocenter. Before exposure, the film was pierced by the needle. Density profile was measured by using a densitometer with a spatial resolution of 0.8 mm. The profile was then fitted to a model of the two Gaussian functions. One is for the radiation field profile, the other for a dip caused by the narrow hole. The difference between the centers of the two Gaussian functions defines the deviation of the beam accuracy from the mechanical center of the unit. The deviations for x, y, and z directions from one of our annual measurements are 0.032, 0.054, and 0.195 mm, respectively. The combined deviation is 0.20 mm, which is well within the specification and in excellent agreement with the results from the manufacture's laser measurement. This technique provides a simple, accurate and practical tool for measurement of the beam accuracy in the acceptance test and annual quality assurance of the Leksell Gamma Unit.

PACS number(s): 87.66.–a, 87.53.–j
Protecting patients by training physicians in fluoroscopic radiation management
Authors: Archer Benjamin R. , Wagner Louis K.
Published: February 2017

During the past 15 years, developments in x‐ray technologies have substantially enhanced the ability of practitioners to treat patients using fluoroscopically guided interventional techniques. However, many of these procedures require a greater use of fluoroscopy and serial imaging (cine). This has increased the potential for radiation‐induced dermatitis, epilation, and severe radiation‐induced burns to patients. It has also increased the potential for radiation injury and radiation‐induced cancer in personnel. This work will describe a number of the cases that have appeared in the literature and current recommendations and credentialing requirements of various organizations whose members use fluoroscopy. Finally, a program for implementing training of physicians in radiation management as a means of reducing the risk of injury to patients and personnel is recommended.

PACS number(s): 87.52.–g, 87.90.+y
Measurement of the interplay effect in lung IMRT treatment using EDR2 films
Authors: Berbeco Ross I. , Pope Cynthia J. , Jiang Steve B.
Published: February 2017

Intrafraction organ motion during the dynamic delivery of intensity‐modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) treatment of lung tumors may cause unexpected hot/cold spots within the target volume, due to the interplay effect between tumor motion and multileaf collimator (MLC) leaf motion. In the past, this has been investigated through theoretical analysis, computer simulation, and experimental measurement using an ionization chamber dosimeter. In the work presented here, the interplay effect was studied experimentally in 2D, using Kodak EDR2 films. A five‐field lung IMRT plan was delivered to a solid water phantom with embedded film. The phantom was placed on a motor‐driven platform with a sinusoidal motion to simulate the respiration‐induced tumor motion. The delivery of each field began at one of eight equally spaced initial breathing phases. The dose distribution for each treatment fraction was estimated by combining the dose distributions for all fields with randomly sampled initial breathing phases. The dose variation caused by the interplay effect was estimated by looking at the dose values from 1000 trials of 30 fractions. It was found that, on a day‐to‐day basis, the standard deviation of the dose to a given pixel in the high‐dose region could be as high as 2% to 4% due to the motion interplay effect. After 30 fractions, the standard deviation in the dose to each pixel is reduced to 0.4% to 0.7%. However, compared to the static delivery, the dose distribution from a 30‐fraction case in the presence of motion shows some underdosing in the region of interest. We found that the maximum dose in the target remains within 1% of the maximum dose in the static case, but the minimum dose in the target is most likely to be about 6% lower than the static case. Our results indicate that there can be some underdosing of the tumor due to the interplay effect in lung IMRT delivery over the entire course of a 30‐fraction treatment.

PACS number: 87.53.Mr
Treatment of exceptionally large prostate cancer patients with low‐energy intensity‐modulated photons
Authors: Sun Mei , Ma Lijun
Published: February 2017

An inverse planning technique using 6‐MV intensity‐modulated photon beams was developed for treating large‐size patients with prostate cancer. Comparisons of treatment plans using 6‐MV and 18‐MV intensity‐modulated beams were carried out for a cohort of 10 patient cases. For these cases, we analyzed the dependence of plan quality on the beam energies. We found that 6‐MV beams resulted in plans equivalent to those for 18‐MV beams both for targets and for critical structures such as the rectum and bladder. The differences between the plans in the integral dose and the mean dose to the normal tissue surrounding the target were found to be small, in contrast to those for 3D conformal plans. Our findings showed that the low entrance dose of the high‐energy photon beams is mostly compensated by the high exit dose for even exceptionally large patients. In conclusion, 6‐MV intensity‐modulated beams are a feasible choice for treating large‐size patients with prostate cancer, provided that proper inverse planning techniques are adopted.

PACS number: 87.50.Gi, 87.53.Tf
Observed intercamera variability in clinically relevant performance characteristics for Siemens Symbia gamma cameras
Authors: Kappadath S. Cheenu , Erwin William D. , Wendt Richard E.
Published: February 2017

We conducted an evaluation of the intercamera (i.e., between cameras) variability in clinically relevant performance characteristics for Symbia gamma cameras (Siemens Medical Solutions, Malvern, PA) based on measurements made using nine separate systems. The significance of the observed intercamera variability was determined by comparing it to the intracamera (i.e., within a single camera) variability. Measurements of performance characteristics were based on the standards of the National Electrical Manufacturers Association and reports 6, 9, 22, and 52 from the American Association of Physicists in Medicine. All measurements were performed using (except used for extrinsic resolution) and low‐energy, high‐resolution collimation. Of the nine cameras, four have crystals 3/8 in. thick and five have crystals 5/8 in. thick. We evaluated intrinsic energy resolution, intrinsic and extrinsic spatial resolution, intrinsic integral and differential flood uniformity over the useful field‐of‐view, count rate at 20% count loss, planar sensitivity, single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) resolution, and SPECT integral uniformity. The intracamera variability was estimated by repeated measurements of the performance characteristics on a single system. The significance of the observed intercamera variability was evaluated using the two‐tailed F distribution. The planar sensitivity of the gamma cameras tested was found be variable at the 99.8% confidence level for both the 3/8‐in. and 5/8‐in. crystal systems. The integral uniformity and energy resolution were found to be variable only for the 5/8‐in. crystal systems at the 98% and 90% confidence level, respectively. All other performance characteristics tested exhibited no significant variability between camera systems. The measured variability reported here could perhaps be used to define nominal performance values of Symbia gamma cameras for planar and SPECT imaging.

PACS numbers: 87.62.+n, 87.58.Pm, 87.58.Ce
Monte Carlo dosimetric characterization of the IsoAid ADVANTAGE brachytherapy source
Authors: Sowards Keith T.
Published: February 2017

For roughly 25 years, and sources have been used in the treatment of various malignant diseases such as prostate cancer. Various new sources have been marketed and produced to meet the demand for new sources to use in treatment. Recently, IsoAID LLC created the ADVANTAGE source. Various dosimetric parameters must be determined to facilitate treatment planning using this source. Theoretical determination of dosimetric characteristics, dose rate constant, radial dose function, and anisotropy function for this new source followed the American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM) Task Group 43U1 recommendations. Theoretical calculations were performed in liquid water using the PTRAN Monte Carlo code version 7.44. The radial dose function of the new source was calculated in liquid water at distances up to 10.0 cm, and the anisotropy function, at distances ranging from 0.5 cm to 7.0 cm. The anisotropy factors and anisotropy constant were derived from the anisotropy function. The results in water indicate that the dose rate constant is and that the anisotropy constant is . The dosimetric characteristics of this new source compare favorably with those of other commercially available sources.

PACS: 87.53.Jw