Couch Angles Research Articles

Clinical commissioning of a new patient positioning system, SyncTraX FX4, for intracranial stereotactic radiotherapy.

Background & AimsA new real‐time tracking radiotherapy (RTRT) system, the SyncTraX FX4 (Shimadzu, Kyoto, Japan), consisting of four X‐ray tubes and four ceiling‐mounted flat panel detectors (FPDs) combined with a linear accelerator, was installed at Uonuma Kikan Hospital (Niigata, Japan) for the first time worldwide. In addition to RTRT, the SyncTraX FX4 system enables bony structure‐based patient verification. Here we provide the first report of this system's clinical commissioning for intracranial stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT).Materials & MethodsA total of five tests were performed for the commissioning: evaluations of (1) the system's image quality; (2) the imaging and treatment coordinate coincidence; and (3) the localization accuracy of cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) and SyncTraX FX4; (4) the measurement of air kerma; (5) an end‐to‐end test.Results & DiscussionThe tests revealed the following. (1) All image quality evaluation items satisfied each acceptable criterion in all FPDs. (2) The maximum offsets among the centers were ≤0.40 mm in all combinations of the FPD and X‐ray tubes (preset). (3) The isocenter localization discrepancies between CBCT and preset #3 in the SyncTraX FX4 system were 0.29 ± 0.084 mm for anterior‐posterior, −0.19 ± 0.13 mm for superior‐inferior, 0.076 ± 0.11 mm for left‐right, −0.11 ± 0.066° for rotation, −0.14 ± 0.064° for pitch, and 0.072±0.058° for roll direction. the Pearson's product‐moment correlation coefficient between the two systems was >0.98 in all directions. (4) The mean air kerma value for preset #3 was 0.11 ± 0.0002 mGy in predefined settings (80 kV, 200 mA, 50 msec). (5) For 16 combinations of gantry and couch angles, median offset value in all presets was 0.31 mm (range 0.14–0.57 mm).ConclusionOur results demonstrate a competent performance of the SyncTraX FX4 system in terms of the localization accuracy for intracranial SRT.

Evaluation of optimization workflow using design of experiment (DoE) for various field configurations in volumetric-modulated arc therapy

PurposeIn volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT), field configurations such as couch or arc angles are defined manually or using a template. A field configuration is reselected through trial-and-error in the case of undesirable resultant planning. To efficiently plan for desirable quality, configurations should be assessed before dose calculation. Design of experiments (DoE) is an optimization technique that efficiently reveals the influence of inputs on outputs. We developed an original tool using DoE to determine the field configuration selection and evaluated the efficacy of this workflow for clinical practice. MethodsComputed-tomography scans of 17 patients and target structures were acquired retrospectively from a brain tumor treated using a dual-arc VMAT plan. The configurations of the couch, arc, collimator angles, field sizes, and beam energy were determined using DoE. The resultant dose distributions obtained using the DoE-selected configuration were compared with the clinical plan. ResultsThe averaged differences between the DoE and clinical plan for 17 patients of doses to 50% of the planning target volume (PTV-D50%), Brain-D60%, Brain-D30%, Brain stem-D1%, Left eye-D1%, Right eye-D1%, Optic nerve-D1%, and Chiasm-D1% were 0.2 ± 0.5%, −1.0 ± 4.6%, 1.7 ± 3.5%, −2.5 ± 6.7%, −0.2 ± 4.9%, −1.2 ± 3.6%, −2.8 ± 7.3%, and −2.1 ± 5.7%, respectively. ConclusionsOur optimization workflow obtained using DoE for various field configurations provided the same or slightly superior plan quality compared with that created by experts. This process is feasible for clinical practice and will efficiently improve treatment quality while removing the influence of the planner’s experience.

Patient-specific quality control for stereotactic cranial radiosurgery

Patient-specific quality control (PSQC) has been carried out for 25 cranial radiosurgery plans delivered using a TrueBeam STx (Varian, Palo Alto, CA) equipped with an ExacTrac (BrainLab, Munich, Germany) imaging system. The StereoTactic End-to-End Verification (STEEV) phantom (CIRS Inc., Norfolk, VA) was used to measure both point doses using a microDiamond detector (PTW, Freiburg, Germany) and 2D dose planes using gafchromic type EBT-XD film (Ashland, NJ, USA). The Octavius 4D and 1000SRS array (PTW, Freiburg, Germany) was used to measure 3D dose distributions. Point doses were recorded using the planned couch positions and then with the couch angle reset to zero degrees to remove the influence of directional dependence of the microDiamond. The mean difference between measured and calculated point doses was −3.2 ± 1.1% using planned couch positions and −1.8 ± 0.9% with the influence of couch angle removed. The mean difference in the point dose measured using the Octavius was −1.1 ± 0.7% and the mean gamma pass rate for 2%/1 mm criteria (10% threshold) was 99.4 ± 0.7%. The mean pass rate using 5%/1 mm global gamma criteria for the film analysis was 97.1 ± 3.4% with only 1 result below 90%. The mean pass rate using 3%/2 mm local gamma (10% threshold) was 82.3 ± 12.5% with 5 results less than 70% however all these consisted of plans with average equivalent square field sizes of

A study for the dosimetric evaluation of rotational setup error for lung stereotactic body radiation therapy

AbstractPurposeTo investigate the necessity of rotational shifts by considering dosimetric impact of rotational errors on stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).Materials and methods20 lung patients with the lesion size <5 cm treated with SBRT have been selected for dosimetric analysis. Three-dimensional dose has been rotationally shifted (±1°, ±3°, ±5° for pitch, roll and yaw) and overlaid to the original computed tomography images. The dose–volume histograms of 18-rotational plans of each patient were compared to those of the original plan.ResultsNo significant dosimetric differences were observed in target coverage. For all of the cases up to 5° in any couch angle dose differences of D99 and D95 were <3%. Variations of conformity index were observed to be less than 0·05. None of the organ at risk doses exceeded the dose limit. The V20 differences of the ipsilateral and the total lungs were less than 0·4%.ConclusionIt has been found to be unnecessary to perform rotational shifts up to 5° for lung SBRT treatments; the translational shift is sufficient for the cases used in this study. This method may be applied and tested after planning and before treatment initiation to rule out exceptionally extreme cases.

P217] Comprehensive procedure for IMRT QA testing

Purpose To design a versatile procedure for testing the repeatability and accuracy of geometric setup i.e. leaves motion, gantry and collimator position and isocenter stability, as well as dosimetric properties of beam parameters in conditions representative for intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) techniques, with respect to ease for performance and automated analysis. Methods Tests were design for the cubic water-equivalent phantom with the insertion of MatriXX Evolution dosimetric device, consisted of 1024 air ionization chambers arranged in 2D array for dose distribution acquiring. Measurements were analyzed using OmniPro I’mRT software. All tests were checked for phantom setup reproducibility contribution in the final uncertainty of each result. The capability to detect in these tests the gross errors in gantry, collimator and treatment couch setup was checked. The influence of dosimetric device placement with respect to the beam central axis on reconstructed dose values and localization was also investigated, taking into account the limited resolution related to ionization chambers spacing. Results Stability of isocenter position performed for full-arc rotating gantry and 1×1 cm2 field size together with cone beam CT, analyzed against the convergence of MV to kV point of rotation showed accuracy of 0.2 mm whereas 0.5 mm is declared by the linac manufacturer. The test involving the re-loading of the field size for non-zero gantry position showed 0.5% accuracy of leaves positioning. Dose analysis for strip test was appeared to be sensitive to small couch angles often difficult to perceive, resulting in about 2% dose discrepancy for 2–5 deg. angles mismatch. Conclusions It is possible to verify the parameters of linac operation which are crucial for accurate and precise IMRT realization in a simple tests involving the equipment commonly used for dose distribution verification. The advantage of using 2D array of dosimeters is the possibility to compare two subsequent measurements in terms of gamma index, what enables to maintain the single linac operation stability aa well as twin parameters across the set of linacs. For IMRT QA purpose 3% and 1 mm criteria are sensitive enough to detect the mismatch in geometric or dosimetric parameters of linac of 0.2 mm and 1%, respectively.

Collision Risk Mitigation of Varian TrueBeam Linear Accelerator With Supplemental Live-View Cameras

BackgroundNoncoplanar radiation therapy techniques such as 4π have potential dosimetric advantages but introduce complexities in treatment delivery that increase the risk for collision. Direct or remote visual confirmation of clearance is a safeguard against collisions of the gantry, couch, and patient. With our institution’s Varian TrueBeam system, we identified configurations that cannot be visualized with the included closed-circuit television cameras. At our practice, electronic, portal imaging device (EPID) collision risk also exists because of the routine deployment to capture exit-dose images for treatment quality assurance. We propose a simple, cost-effective solution using network cameras to help eliminate blind spots that permits safe, noncoplanar arrangements with an EPID-acquired exit dose. Methods and materialsTwo Panasonic cameras were installed overhead while a third Panasonic camera was mounted onto the pedestal to monitor the couch undersurface. Live views from each camera were accessed with a web-based client. The EPID and gantry were visually assessed at 52 couch and gantry rotational angle configurations at 6 couch translational positions. Visibility was compared for the standard and supplemental camera setups at each configuration (χ2 test). ResultsOf the 294 assessable couch-gantry configurations, the standard camera setup had limited visibility of either gantry or EPID for 146 configurations compared with 72 configurations with additional cameras (51% blind-spot reduction; P < .01). An 87% blind-spot reduction was observed for our laterally centered, cranial-based, couch translational position (P < .01). ConclusionsThe supplemental cameras were simple, effective additions for collision detection, especially for noncoplanar radiation therapy with EPID-acquired, exit-dose imaging. Over half of the assessable noncoplanar configurations had blind spots using standard cameras, which was reduced to <25% with additional cameras. In practice, there were almost no blind spots for patients with brain tumors who were treated with our templated beam arrangements. Using live-view camera feeds, vault re-entry to visually confirm clearance was reduced approximately 10-fold, which increased the treatment efficiency. In the most recent 12 months, no collision or near-collision events have been reported.

Development and implementation of EPID-based quality assurance tests for the small animal radiation research platform (SARRP).

Although small animal image-guided radiotherapy (SA-IGRT) systems are used increasingly in preclinical research, tools for performing routine quality assurance (QA) have not been optimized and are not readily available. Robust, efficient, and reliable QA tools are needed to ensure the accuracy and reproducibility of SA-IGRT systems. Several investigators have reported custom-made phantoms and protocols for SA-IGRT systems QA. These are typically time and resource intensive and are therefore not well suited to the preclinical radiotherapy environment, in which physics support is limited and routine QA is performed by technical staff. We investigated the use of the inbuilt electronic portal imaging device (EPID) to develop and validate routine QA tests and procedures. In this work, we focus on the Xstrahl Small Animal Radiation Research Platform (SARRP) EPID. However, the methodology and tests developed here are applicable to any SA-IGRT system that incorporates an EPID. We performed a comprehensive characterization of the dosimetric properties of the camera-based EPID at kilovoltage energies over a 11-month period, including detector warm-up time, radiation dose history effect, stability and short- and long-term reproducibility, gantry angle dependency, output factor, and linearity of the EPID response. We developed a test to measure the constancy of beam quality in terms of half-value layer and tube peak potential using the EPID. We verified the SARRP daily output and beam profile constancy using the imager. We investigated the use of the imager to monitor beam-targeting accuracy at various gantry and couch angles. The EPID response was stable and reproducible, exhibiting maximum variations of ≤0.3% and ≤1.9% for short and long terms, respectively. The detector showed no dependence on response at different gantry angles, with a maximum variation ≤0.5%. We found close agreement in output factor measurement between the portal imager and reference dosimeters, with maximum differences ≤3% for ionization chamber and ≤1.7% for Gafchromic EBT3 dosimetry film, respectively. We have shown that the EPID response is linear with tube current (mA) for the entire range of tube kilovoltage peak. Notably, a close relationship was seen between the detector response vs mA slope, and the kilovoltage peak, allowing an independent verification of kilovoltage peak stability based solely on EPID response. In addition to dosimetry tests, according to the beam-targeting measurement using portal images, maximum displacement of the central axis of the x-ray beam (due to sag) was 0.76±0.09mm at gantry 135°/couch 0° and 0.89±0.06mm at gantry 0°/couch -135°. We performed the first comprehensive analysis on the dosimetric properties of an EPID operating at kilovoltage x-ray energies. We characterized the detector performance over a 11-month period. Our results indicate that the imager is a stable and convenient tool for SARRP routine QA tests. We then developed EPID-based tests to perform routine SA-IGRT systems QA tasks, such as verifying constancy of beam quality, energy, output, and profile measurements, relative output factors, and beam targeting.

Illustrated instructions for mechanical quality assurance of a medical linear accelerator.

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to develop and test a set of illustrated instructions for effective training for mechanical quality assurance (QA) of medical linear accelerators (linac).MethodsIllustrated instructions were created for mechanical QA and underwent several steps of review, testing, and refinement. Eleven testers with no recent QA experience were then recruited from our radiotherapy department (one student, two computational scientists, and eight dosimetrists). This group was selected because they have experience of radiation therapy but no preconceived ideas about how to do QA. The following parameters were progressively decalibrated on a Varian C‐series linac: Group A = gantry angle, ceiling laser position, X1 jaw position, couch longitudinal position, physical graticule position (five testers); Group B = Group A + wall laser position, couch lateral and vertical position, collimator angle (three testers); Group C = Group B + couch angle, wall laser angle, and optical distance indicator (three testers). Testers were taught how to use the linac and then used the instructions to try to identify these errors. An experienced physicist observed each session, giving support on machine operation as necessary.ResultsTesters were able to follow the instructions. They determined gantry, collimator, and couch angle errors within 0.4°, 0.3°, and 0.9° of the actual changed values, respectively. Laser positions were determined within 1 mm and jaw positions within 2 mm. Couch position errors were determined within 2 mm and 3 mm for lateral/longitudinal and vertical errors, respectively. Accessory‐positioning errors were determined within 1 mm. Optical distance indicator errors were determined within 2 mm when comparing with distance sticks and 6 mm when using blocks, indicating that distance sticks should be the preferred approach for inexperienced staff.ConclusionsInexperienced users were able to follow these instructions and catch errors within the criteria suggested by AAPM TG‐142 for linacs used for intensity‐modulated radiation therapy. These instructions are, therefore, suitable for QA training.

Machine-specific quality assurance procedure for stereotactic treatments with dynamic couch rotations.

We present a method in which the treatment couch's accuracy is measured using the electronic portal imaging device (EPID) and a phantom of our own construction. Using this phantom, we were able to quantify the treatment couch walkout, and the rotation angle accuracy for both static and dynamic couch treatments. These measurements were used to provide an accurate measure of the treatment couch isocenter as well as to verify the couch rotation angle recorded in the trajectory log. The phantom was constructed using a polystyrene slab in which five ball bearings of 4 mm diameter are placed on the same plane at varying radii (0, 2.8, 4.4, 5.6, and 6.7 cm). The couch was rotated through its full extent (-90, 90 degrees) while MV images were acquired continuously. The couch rotational accuracy was calculated using a least squares minimization which fit the locations of the BBs to their expected locations relative to reference setup conditions. Using this approach, rotation angle and isocenter walkout was calculated in three dimensions. These measurements were used to quantify the accuracy of the couch as well as to validate the Varian TrueBeam trajectory logs. Additionally, a method for an EPID-based couch star-shot measurement was developed and compared with the traditional film-based method. The measured couch center of rotation consisted of a cloud of points clustered around the room isocenter within 0.7 mm distance. The trajectory log couch angle values agreed with those recorded in the DICOM header of the EPID images to the third significant digit and the couch rotation angles recorded in the trajectory log and DICOM header agreed with the calculated values to 0.08 degrees. Comparison of couch star-shot measurement developed in this study with film-based star-shot measurements gave an agreement to within 0.2 mm. We have developed a quality assurance method for the treatment couch which is simple, accurate, and enables the user to access a multitude of consistent data with a single measurement. Using this method, we have shown that the treatment couch is accurate for both static and dynamic stereotactic deliveries.

Five-field IMRT class solutions and dosimetric planning guidelines for implementing accelerated partial breast irradiation

PurposeA comprehensive set of planning guidelines was developed to aid in achieving reproducible dosimetric results for external beam accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI). The methodology for the development of class solutions for dosimetric planning of the APBI technique, including dose constraint recommendations, is presented for target coverage and conformity as well as normal tissues. Methods and materialsA conservative patient setup was simulated on a linear accelerator, and a comprehensive arrangement of gantry and couch angles was measured for clearance. This provided the foundation for available beam arrangements to develop reproducible and conformal 5-field intensity modulated radiation therapy partial breast plans. Forty patients were planned. Patient plans were assessed according to anatomy specific features, such as laterality and seroma location within the breast. ResultsClearance tables are presented to give permissible gantry and couch orientations according to measurements facilitated by patient simulation. Beam arrangement class solutions are presented for left- and right-sided APBI patients. Dosimetric recommendations are made based on the results of 40 patient plans. The median and range, describing target coverage and target conformity, are reported, as are normal tissue constraints for ipsilateral lung, ipsilateral breast, heart, liver, and contralateral breast. In all cases, the dose recommendations were at least as strict as multi-institutional APBI trials. In the case of ipsilateral lung and ipsilateral breast, the planning recommendations are more stringent. ConclusionsAPBI using a 5-field intensity modulated radiation therapy technique was comprehensively developed and evaluated to provide recommendations yielding highly conformal and reproducible treatment plans. This provides a clear method to implement external beam APBI planning and delivery.

A Study of Six-Dimensional Intrafractional Shifts During Frameless Image-Guided Radiosurgery and Pain Outcome for Trigeminal Neuralgia

Precision targeting is essential to successful stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for trigeminal neuralgia (TGN). We investigate the impact of intra-fractional 6-dimensional shifts during frameless image-guided stereotactic radiosurgery (IGRS) on pain relief outcome for TGN patients. A total of 41 sets of intra-fractional shifts from 35 patients with idiopathic TGN treated by a dedicated Linac-based radiosurgery unit from 2009 to 2013 were retrospectively studied. All patients were immobilized by facemask and received 90 Gy point dose via a 4 mm cone from an average of 6 non-coplanar arcs to the affected trigeminal nerve. The in-room kV X-ray imaging system with 6-degree of freedom robotic couch was utilized for image-guided positioning corrections. During each frameless IGRS, translational shifts in lateral, longitudinal and vertical directions, as well as rotational shifts in pitch, roll and yaw were conducted at each couch angle. These 6-dimentional shifts and the average calculated distance derived from translational shifts were analyzed and correlated with clinical pain outcome. Clinical pain outcome was assessed by patient interviews according the 5-point Barrow Neurological Institute (BNI) pain scale. Student’s t test was used to detect significance between values. The absolute mean lateral, longitudinal and vertical translational were 0.46 ± 0.15, 0.36 ± 0.16 and 0.21 ± 0.08 mm, respectively. The absolute mean pitch, roll and yaw rotational shifts were 0.33 ± 0.24, 0.18 ± 0.09 and 0.27 ± 0.15 degrees, respectively. For patients with less than 2 points of pain relief, the absolute mean lateral, longitudinal and vertical translational shifts were 0.09 ± 0.01, 0.14 ± 0.01 and 0.09 ± 0.01 mm, respectively. The average calculated distance shift for patients with less than 2 points of pain relief was 0.23 ± 0.01 mm. The average absolute pitch, roll and yaw rotational shifts for these patients were 0.15 ± 0.01, 0.10 ± 0.00 and 0.09 ± 0.01 degrees, respectively. For patients with at least 2 points of pain relief, the average absolute lateral, longitudinal and vertical translational shifts were 0.12 ± 0.00, 0.16 ± 0.01 and 0.09 ± 0.00 mm, respectively. The average calculated distance shift for these patients was 0.26 ± 0.01 mm. The average absolute pitch, roll and yaw rotational shifts for these patients were 0.14 ± 0.01, 0.10 ± 0.00 and 0.13 ± 0.00 degrees, respectively. The two patient groups demonstrate no statistically significant difference in the translational or rotational intra-fractional shifts. Our analysis revealed no correlation between pain relief outcome and the amount of intra-fractional shift in all six dimensions during frameless IGRS. Our results indicate the less than 0.5 mm nominal mechanical deviation during frameless IGRS does not impact on TGN pain outcome.

Distance-dependent penumbra and MLC-width: new insights in determinants of healthy tissue sparing in stereotactic irradiation

Abstract For stereotactic irradiation, both, penumbra and MLC leaf width make an impact on the sparing of healthy tissue around the target. Mostly, MLC design is regarded as the one influenceable parameter. However, also penumbra can be varied by choosing different distances between the source of radiation and the patient. The authors investigate the distance- dependent penumbra effects of idealized collimators as well as for real 5 mm MLCs. Test objects are small spherical targets of varying diameters to be irradiated under differing prescription conditions. A method to calculate exact stereotactic radial dose distributions from beam profiles or 2D dose distributions of single beams is developed for circular and MLC shaped targets. Also, a planning study is performed using a Pinnacle3™ planning system. Also, in a theoretical analysis perfect top hat profile beams and beams with varying penumbra are compared for better understanding of penumbra effects with respect to radial dose distributions. It is shown, that the penumbra changes for small targets are more relevant than the beam shaping by 5 mm MLCs. Quasi-isotropic irradiated MLC shaped (quadratic) beams at virtual SAD 700 mm produce steeper radial dose decrease than ideal circular beam shapes with a penumbra typical for SAD 1000 mm. A reduced source-to-patient distance allows better sparing of healthy tissue because of two reasons: The smaller effective leaf width but even more due to steeper penumbra. First, the authors suggest for future recommendations on stereotactic irradiations to specify not only MLC widths but also penumbra characteristics. Second, a so-called “virtual isocentre” could be useful to take advantage of the penumbra effect: Dependent on gantry angle and isocentric couch angle, the couch should be steered automatically in a way that the central axes of all beams always intersect in the same point at the same distance from the source.

Effects of collimator angle, couch angle, and starting phase on motion-tracking dynamic conformal arc therapy (4D DCAT).

PurposeThe aim of this study was to find an optimized configuration of collimator angle, couch angle, and starting tracking phase to improve the delivery performance in terms of MLC position errors, maximal MLC leaf speed, and total beam‐on time of DCAT plans with motion tracking (4D DCAT).Method and materialsNontracking conformal arc plans were first created based on a single phase (maximal exhalation phase) of a respiratory motion phantom with a spherical target. An ideal model was used to simulate the target motion in superior‐inferior (SI), anterior‐posterior (AP), and left‐right (LR) dimensions. The motion was decomposed to the MLC leaf position coordinates for motion compensation and generating 4D DCAT plans. The plans were studied with collimator angle ranged from 0° to 90°; couch angle ranged from 350°(−10°) to 10°; and starting tracking phases at maximal inhalation (θ=π/2) and exhalation (θ=0) phases. Plan performance score (PPS) evaluates the plan complexity including the variability in MLC leaf positions, degree of irregularity in field shape and area. PPS ranges from 0 to 1, where low PPS indicates a plan with high complexity. The 4D DCAT plans with the maximal and the minimal PPS were selected and delivered on a Varian TrueBeam linear accelerator. Gafchromic‐EBT3 dosimetry films were used to measure the dose delivered to the target in the phantom. Gamma analysis for film measurements with 90% passing rate threshold using 3%/3 mm criteria and trajectory log files were analyzed for plan delivery accuracy evaluation.ResultsThe maximal PPS of all the plans was 0.554, achieved with collimator angle at 87°, couch angle at 350°, and starting phase at maximal inhalation (θ=π/2). The maximal MLC leaf speed, MLC leaf errors, total leaf travel distance, and beam‐on time were 20 mm/s, 0.39 ± 0.16 mm, 1385 cm, and 157 s, respectively. The starting phase, whether at maximal inhalation or exhalation had a relatively small contribution to PPS (0.01 ± 0.05).ConclusionsBy selecting collimator angle, couch angle, and starting tracking phase, 4D DCAT plans with the maximal PPS demonstrated less MLC leaf position errors, lower maximal MLC leaf speed, and shorter beam‐on time which improved the performance of 4D motion‐tracking DCAT delivery.

Tuning of AcurosXB source size setting for small intracranial targets.

This study details a method to evaluate the source size selection for small field intracranial stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) deliveries in Eclipse treatment planning system (TPS) for AcurosXB dose calculation algorithm. Our method uses end‐to‐end dosimetric data to evaluate a total of five source size selections (0.50 mm, 0.75 mm, 1.00 mm, 1.25 mm, and 1.50 mm). The dosimetric leaf gap (DLG) was varied in this analysis (three DLG values were tested for each scenario). We also tested two MLC leaf designs (standard and high‐definition MLC) and two delivery types for intracranial SRS (volumetric modulated arc therapy [VMAT] and dynamic conformal arc [DCA]). Thus, a total of 10 VMAT plans and 10 DCA plans were tested for each machine type (TrueBeam [standard MLC] and Edge [high‐definition MLC]). Each plan was mapped to a solid water phantom and dose was calculated with each iteration of source size and DLG value (15 total dose calculations for each plan). To measure the dose, Gafchromic film was placed in the coronal plane of the solid water phantom at isocenter. The phantom was localized via on‐board CBCT and the plans were delivered at planned gantry, collimator, and couch angles. The planned and measured film dose was compared using Gamma (3.0%, 0.3 mm) criteria. The vendor‐recommended 1.00 mm source size was suitable for TrueBeam planning (both VMAT and DCA planning) and Edge DCA planning. However, for Edge VMAT planning, the 0.50 mm source size yielded the highest passing rates. The difference in dose calculation among the source size variations manifested primarily in two regions of the dose calculation: (1) the shoulder of the high‐dose region, and (2) for small targets (volume ≤ 0.30 cc), in the central portion of the high‐dose region. Selection of a larger than optimal source size can result in increased blurring of the shoulder for all target volume sizes tested, and can result in central axis dose discrepancies in excess of 10% for target volumes sizes ≤ 0.30 cc. Our results indicate a need for evaluation of the source size when AcurosXB is used to model intracranial SRS delivery, and our methods represent a feasible process for many clinics to perform tuning of the AcurosXB source size parameter.

Orthogonal image pairs coupled with OSMS for noncoplanar beam angle, intracranial, single-isocenter, SRS treatments with multiple targets on the Varian Edge radiosurgery system

PurposeTo characterize the accuracy of noncoplanar image guided radiation therapy with the Varian Edge radiosurgery system for intracranial stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) treatments by assessing the accuracy of kV/kV orthogonal pair registration with Optical Surface Monitoring System (OSMS) monitoring relative to cone beam computed tomography (CT). Methods and materialsA Computerized Imaging Reference System head phantom and Encompass SRS Immobilization System were used to determine collision-free space for orthogonal image pairs (kV/kV) for couch rotations (CRs) of 45°, 30°, 15°, 345°, 330°, and 315°. Couch-induced shifts were measured using kV/kV orthogonal image pairs, OSMS, and cone beam CT. The kV/kV image pairs and OSMS localization accuracy was also assessed with respect to cone beam CT. ResultsMean orthogonal image pair differences for 315°, 330°, 345°, 15°, 30°, and 45° CRs were ≤±0.60 mm and ±0.37°. OSMS localization accuracy was ≤±0.25 mm and ±0.20°. Correspondingly, kV/kV localization accuracy was ≤±0.30 mm and ±0.5°. Shift differences for various image pairs at all CRs were ≤±1.10 mm and ±0.7°. Cone beam CT deviation was 0.10 mm and 0.00° without patient motion or CR. ConclusionBased on our study, CR-induced shifts with the Varian Edge radiosurgery system will not produce noticeable dosimetric effects for SRS treatments. Thus, replacing cone beam CT with orthogonal kV/kV pairs coupled with OSMS at the treatment couch angle could reduce the number of cone beam CT scans that are acquired during a standard SRS treatment while providing an accurate and safe treatment with negligible dosimetric effects on the treatment plan.

The spatial accuracy of two frameless, linear accelerator-based systems for single-isocenter, multitarget cranial radiosurgery.

Single‐isocenter, multitarget cranial stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is more efficient than using an isocenter for each target, but spatial positioning uncertainties can be magnified at locations away from the isocenter. This study reports on the spatial accuracy of two frameless, linac‐based SRS systems for multitarget, single‐isocenter SRS as a function of distance from the isocenter. One system uses the ExacTrac platform for image guidance and the other localizes with cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). For each platform, a phantom with 12 target BBs distributed up to 13.8 cm from the isocenter was aligned starting from five different initial offsets and then imaged with the treatment beam at seven different gantry and couch angles. The distribution of the resulting positioning errors demonstrated the value of adding a 1‐mm PTV margin for targets up to about 7–8 cm from the isocenter. For distances 10 cm or more, the CBCT‐based alignment remained within 1.1 mm while the ExacTrac‐based alignment differed by up to 2.2 mm.

Reduction in stray radiation dose using a body-shielding device during external radiation therapy.

With the purpose of reducing stray radiation dose (SRD) in out‐of‐field region (OFR) during radiotherapy with 6 MV intensity‐modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), a body‐shielding device (BSD) was prepared according to the measurements obtained in experimental testing. In experimental testing, optimal shielding conditions, such as 1 mm lead, 2 mm lead, and 1 mm lead plus 10 mm bolus, were investigated along the medial axis of a phantom using thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs). The SRDs at distances from field edge were then measured and analyzed for a clinical IMRT treatment plan for nasopharyngeal carcinoma before and after shielding using the BSD. In addition, SRDs in anterior, posterior, left and right directions of phantom were investigated with and without shielding, respectively. Also, the SRD at the bottom of treatment couch was measured. SRD decreased exponentially to a constant value with increasing distance from field edge. The shielding rate was 50%–80%; however, there were no significant differences in SRDs when shielded by 1 mm lead, 2 mm lead, or 1 mm lead plus 10 mm bolus (P>0.05). Importantly, the 10 mm bolus absorbed back‐scattering radiation due to the interaction between photons and lead. As a result, 1 mm lead plus 10 mm bolus was selected to prepare the BSD. After shielding with BSD, total SRDs in the OFR decreased to almost 50% of those without shielding when irradiated with IMRT beams. Due to the effects of treatment couch and gantry angle, SRDs at distances were not identical in anterior, posterior, left and right direction of phantom without BSD. As higher dose in anterior and lower dose in posterior, SRDs were substantial similarities after shielding. There was no significant difference in SRDs for left and right directions with or without shielding. Interestingly, SRDs in the four directions were similar after shielding. From these results, the BSD developed in this study may significantly reduce SRD in the OFR during radiotherapy, thus decreasing the risk of secondary cancers.

Analysis of Influence of Errors in Angular Settings of Couch and Collimator on the Dosimetric and Radiobiological Parameters in VMAT Plans

ObjectiveTo evaluate the impact of couch and collimator angular variations on dose volume histogram (DVH), tumour control probability (TCP), and normal tissue complication probability (NTCP) of the volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) plans. MethodsStereotactic radiosurgery and stereotactic body radiation therapy VMAT plans were generated for three different hypothetical planning target volumes (PTVs) that mimic brain metastases, single brain lesion, and single spine lesion. Thirty routine VMAT plans (10 prostate, 10 head and neck, and 10 brain cases) treated in our clinic were also selected for this study. The plans were generated using an Eclipse Treatment Planning System and delivered using a Clinac iX linear accelerator equipped with a Millennium 120 multileaf collimator. All the plans were generated using two complementary full arcs (with gantry angle from 179° to 181° and collimator rotation of 30° and 330°) except the brain tumour cases, which used single full arc with collimator rotation of 30°. In all the cases, the couch angle was zero. Impact of the angular variations in the collimator and couch was studied by varying the collimator and couch angular settings by 1°, 2°, and 3°, and creating six erroneous plans corresponding to the original plans. The variation due to these errors on different DVH and radiobiological parameters (TCP, equivalent uniform dose (EUD), and NTCP) of the PTVs and organs-at-risk (OARs) were observed. The relative percentage of difference in these parameters (ΔD, ΔTCP, ΔEUD, and ΔNTCP) were analysed, and statistical significance was tested. ResultsThe variation due to collimator misplacement was observed to be larger than the couch misplacement. Furthermore, in both cases, the variation increased as the degree of error increased. Among the DVH parameters, D98%, D95%, and V95Gy were affected more by the errors than D2%, D5%, and D50%, in both hypothetical and clinical PTVs. In the clinical PTVs, the TCP showed the most variation among all parameters. The ΔNTCP of the bladder and brain OARs were zero, whereas for head and neck OARs, it was high. ConclusionsThe couch and collimator angular variation has different effects on different planning situations and different parameters. The outcome produced by the errors is specific to the treatment sites.

Optimization of Treatment Geometry to Reduce Normal Brain Dose in Radiosurgery of Multiple Brain Metastases with Single-Isocenter Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy.

Treatment of patients with multiple brain metastases using a single-isocenter volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) has been shown to decrease treatment time with the tradeoff of larger low dose to the normal brain tissue. We have developed an efficient Projection Summing Optimization Algorithm to optimize the treatment geometry in order to reduce dose to normal brain tissue for radiosurgery of multiple metastases with single-isocenter VMAT. The algorithm: (a) measures coordinates of outer boundary points of each lesion to be treated using the Eclipse Scripting Application Programming Interface, (b) determines the rotations of couch, collimator, and gantry using three matrices about the cardinal axes, (c) projects the outer boundary points of the lesion on to Beam Eye View projection plane, (d) optimizes couch and collimator angles by selecting the least total unblocked area for each specific treatment arc, and (e) generates a treatment plan with the optimized angles. The results showed significant reduction in the mean dose and low dose volume to normal brain, while maintaining the similar treatment plan qualities on the thirteen patients treated previously. The algorithm has the flexibility with regard to the beam arrangements and can be integrated in the treatment planning system for clinical application directly.

O58. Illustrated instructions for training of physics QA

Introduction Physics QA procedures are typically taught one-to-one, and it can be a challenge to teach large groups of students. Furthermore, it can be difficult for students to remember details when they return to their home institution. We are investigating the use of illustrated instructions for training of physics QA. Here we report on monthly mechanical QA of medical linear accelerators. Materials and methods Illustrated instructions were created for monthly mechanical QA with tolerance tabulated, and underwent several steps of review and refinement. Testers with zero QA experience were then recruited from our radiotherapy department (1 student, 2 computational scientists and 8 dosimetrists). The following parameters were progressively de-calibrated on a Varian C-series linac: Group A = gantry angle, ceiling laser position, X1 jaw position, couch longitudinal position, physical graticule position (5 testers); Group B = Group A + wall laser position, couch lateral and vertical position, collimator angle (3 testers); Group C = Group B + couch angle, wall laser angle, and optical distance indicator (3 testers). Testers were taught how to use the linac, and then used the instructions to try to identify these errors. A physicist observed each session, giving support on machine operation, as necessary. The instructions were further tested with groups of therapists, graduate students and physics residents at multiple institutions. We have also changed the language of the instructions to simulate using the instructions with non-English speakers. Results Testers were able to follow the instructions. They determined gantry, collimator and couch angle errors within 0.4, 0.3, and 0.9 degrees of the actual changed values, respectively. Laser positions were determined within 1 mm, and jaw positions within 2 mm. Couch position errors were determined within 2 and 3 mm for lateral/longitudinal and vertical errors, respectively. Accessory positioning errors were determined within 1 mm. ODI errors were determined within 2 mm when comparing with distance sticks, and 6 mm when using blocks, indicating that distance sticks should be the preferred approach for inexperienced staff. Conclusions Inexperienced users were able to follow these instructions, and catch errors within the criteria suggested by AAPM TG142 for linacs used for IMRT.