Photon Dose Distribution Analysis Using Three-Dimensional Conformal Radiation Therapy (3DCRT) And Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT) Techniques in Cervical Cancer Cases Based on Histogram Volume Dose Curve (DVH)

Abstract

Radiotherapy is one of the effective treatment methods for cervical cancer, although it is faced with great challenges in delivering an accurate dose of radiation. The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of two cervical cancer treatment techniques, namely Three-Dimensional Conformal Radiation Therapy (3DCRT) and Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT) in terms of conformity, homogeneity, and protection of Organs at Risk (OAR). The study used primary data from DVH 3DCRT and IMRT techniques collected from 15 cervical cancer patients. Conformity index (CI) and homogeneity (HI) were evaluated, and dose at OAR was assessed according to QUANTEC rules. The results showed the average CI value for the 3DCRT technique was (96,7 ± 1,5) x 10-2, while for IMRT it was (98,8 ± 0,8) x 10-2. In addition, the average HI score for the 3DCRT technique was (9,6 ± 1,5) x 10-2, and for IMRT it was (6,8 ± 1,9) x 10-2. In the 3DCRT technique, V50 for the rectum ranges from 0 – 57%, V65 for the bladder is 0%, and V50 for the left and right femoral heads ranges from 0 – 15.92% and 0 – 10.86%. While in the IMRT technique, V50 for the rectum ranges from 0 – 40,56%, V65 for bladder is 0%, and V50 for the left and right femoral heads ranges from 0 – 0,3% and 0 – 1,05%. The results of this study showed that the IMRT technique was better and more effective in treating cervical cancer than the 3DCRT technique. The IMRT technique has a higher CI value, indicating a better level of conformity, as well as a lower HI value, signifying a higher level of homogeneity. In addition, the IMRT technique is also able to provide better OAR protection.