Implementation and validation of a 3-dimensional deformable registration algorithm for targeted prostate cancer radiotherapy

Abstract

The daily position and shape changes of the prostate pose an obstacle to reducing the safety margin and decreasing radiation to the surrounding normal tissues during prostate cancer external beam radiotherapy. The daily prostate deformation also complicates accurate dose tracking. The uncertainty in dosimetry is further accentuated when intraprostatic targets based on molecular imaging need to be treated to a desired dose. Against this background, we have implemented and validated a 3-dimensional deformable registration algorithm to aid targeted prostate radiotherapy.