Flattening Filter Free Plans Research Articles

Assessment of Treatment Plan Quality between Flattening Filter and Flattening Filter Free Photon Beam for Carcinoma of the Esophagus with IMRT Technique.

As compared to the flattened photon beam, removing the flattening filter (FF) from the head of a gantry decreases the average energy of the photon beam and increases the dose rate, leading to an impact on the quality of treatment plans. This study aimed to compare the quality of intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) treatment plans for esophageal cancer with and without a flattened filter photon beam. In this analytical study, 12 patients, who had already been treated with a 6X FF photon beam, were treated based on new IMRT methods using a 6X the flattening filter-free (FFF) photon beam. Both 6X FF IMRT and 6X FFF IMRT plans used identical beam parameters and planning objectives. All plans were evaluated with planning indices and doses for organs at risk (OARs). Insignificant dose variation was for HI, CI, D98%, and V95% between FF and FFF photon beam IMRT plans. FF-based IMRT plan delivered a 15.51 % and 11.27% higher mean dose to both lungs and heart than the FFF plan, respectively. The integral dose (ID) for the heart and lungs was 11.21% and 15.51%, respectively, less in the IMRT plan with an FFF photon beam. In contrast to the FF photon beam, a filtered photon beam-oriented IMRT plan provides significant OAR sparing without losing the quality of the treatment plan. High monitor units (MUs), low ID, and Beam on Time (BOT) are major highlights of the IMRT plan with FFF beam.

Volumetric modulated arc therapy for hippocampal-sparing prophylactic cranial irradiation: Planning comparison of Halcyon and C-arm accelerators.

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the dosimetry of the Halcyon in prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) with volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) and hippocampal-sparing for small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Five VMAT plans were designed on CT images of 15 patients diagnosed with SCLC and received PCI. Three plans with two full arcs were generated on the Trilogy and the TrueBeam accelerators, and flattening filter (FF) and flattening filter free (FFF) modes were used on TrueBeam. Two Halcyon plans with two and three full arcs were generated, referred to as H-2A and H-3A, respectively. The prescription dose was 25 Gy in 2.5-Gy fractions. The dose limit for hippocampus were D100 ≤ 9Gy and Dmax ≤ 16Gy. The Wilcoxon matched-paired signed-rank test was used to evaluate the significance of the observed differences between the five plans. H-2A plans significantly increased the D2 of PTV, and H-3A plans showed comparable or even better target dosimetry (better conformity) compared to the three plans on C-arm accelerators. Compared to T and TB plans, the two Halcyon plans significantly reduced the D100 and mean doses of bilateral hippocampus, the mean doses of eyeballs, and the maximum doses of lenses. D100 of hippocampus was reduced in TrueBeam plans comparing to Trilogy plans. The FFF plans on TrueBeam also represented advantages in Dmean and D100 of hippocampas, Dmean and Dmax of eyeballs, and the Dmax of lenses compared to FF plans. Halcyon plans and TrueBeam plans with FFF mode increased the MUs compared to FF plans. Comparing to H-2A, the H-3A plans exhibited additional dosimetric advantages, including D2, CI and HI of PTV, as well as the maximum and mean doses of hippocampus and eyeballs, and the maximum doses of optic nerves and brainstem. The two Halcyon plans significantly reduced the delivery time and showed the higher gamma passing rate than the three plans of C-arm accelerators. Compared with the C-arm accelerators, the dose of hippocampus and the delivery times on Halcyon are relatively significantly reduced for hippocampal-sparing PCI. Three arcs are recommended for VMAT plans with the Halcyon in hippocampal-sparing PCI.

Dosimetric Parameters in Hypofractionated Stereotactic Radiotherapy for Brain Metastases: Do Flattening Filter-Free Beams Bring Benefits? A Preliminary Study.

This study aimed to compare the dosimetric results of flattening filter-free (FFF) vs. flattened (FF) treatment plans for fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy (fSRT), with the goal to highlight potential advantages of FFF beams. A group of 18 patients with brain metastases treated with fSRT (30 Gy delivered in 5 fractions) were included. The dosimetric parameters evaluated were: (1) physical dosimetric parameters (number of monitor units (MUs), conformity index (CI), dose gradient index (DGI), beam on time (BOT)); (2) clinical dosimetric parameters pertaining to target volume (PTV) and organs at risk (OARs). Two treatment plans were performed for all patients: one used 6 MV FFF beams and the other used 6 MV flattened beams. A slight increase in MUs was observed for the FFF mode (+23.3 MUs). The CI showed a difference of -2.7% for the FF plans (p = 0.28), correlated with a poorer coverage of the PTV. DGI values reported in terms of PTV are in line with international recommendations and showed a +1.9% difference for FFF plans. An average BOT of 90.3 s was reported for FFF plans, which was 2.3 times shorter than that required for FF plans delivery (p ≤ 0.001). A slight decrease of PTV coverage (-1.26%, p = 0.036) for FF plans can be considered relevant, but no other significant differences were observed between the two optimizations. No statistically significant benefit of using FFF beams to reduce V20 for normal brain could be demonstrated. These dosimetric results encourage the implementation of fSRT with standard flattened beams in centers where FFF linacs are not available.

Assessment of Monitor Units and Gamma Pass Rate for 6 MV and Flattening Filter Free (FFF) Beams in Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT)

Background: In linear accelerators, the treatment field’s uniform intensity is achieved by including a flattening filter in the beam. However, to produce more conformal dose distributions, contemporary radiotherapy practice now frequently uses fluence and aperture modifying techniques, such as volumetric modulated arc therapy. In these circumstances, the flattening filter in the beam manufacturing process is no longer required. It is therefore necessary to compare the monitor units of 6 MV and flattening filter free plans and how it influences the gamma pass rates to determine which is best for treating cervical cancer with pelvic lymph node metastasis. Methods: VMAT plans for fifteen patients with cervical cancer with pathological pelvic lymph node metastasis were included in this study. Each patient had two VMAT plans using conventional 6 MV beam with flattening filter and one with flattening filter free beam (FFF). The VMAT plans were made using two arcs, and then recalculated to give the planned dose distribution to the detectors in a Delta4 phantom. The VMAT plans were irradiated on the Delta4 phantom using an Elekta linear accelerator (6 MV). Results: The mean monitor unit for the 6 MV plans was 506.3 MU and a standard deviation of 48.6 while that of the FFF plans had a mean MU of 701.5 with a standard deviation of 87.6. The total monitor units (MUs) for the FFF plans were significantly greater than the 6 MV plans (p = 6.1 × 10-5). Conclusion: Flattening filter free (FFF) plans require more numbers of monitor units in comparison to conventional 6 MV filtered beams for external radiation of cervical cancer with pelvic lymph nodes involvement.

Dose Estimation Using Optically Stimulated Luminescence Dosimeter and EBT3 Films for Various Treatment Techniques in Alderson Rando Phantom and Estimation of Secondary Cancer Incidence for Carcinoma of Left Breast.

The aim of this study was to measure the dose to planning target and organ at risk (OAR) using Alderson Rando phantom for various treatment techniques in left breast radiotherapy and to estimate the secondary cancer incidence. Eleven different combinations of plans containing four techniques (three dimensional conformal radiotherapy, intensity-modulated radiation therapy [IMRT], volumetric modulated arc therapy [VMAT], and combination of 3DCRT and VMAT plans (HYBRID)) were created with 6 MV FF and 6 MV FFF (flattening filter and flattening filter-free) photon energies in phantom. Planned target volume and OAR doses in 23 different locations were measured using optically stimulated luminescence dosimeter (OSLD) and EBT3 films. Assuming the age of exposure as 30 years, lifetime attributable risk (LAR) was estimated based on excess absolute risk (EAR) models outlined in the Biological Effects of Ionizing Radiation VII report. Film showed maximum deviations of 6.15% with IMRT_C_FF plan when compared with treatment planning system (TPS). The maximum percentage difference of 1.7% was found with OSLD measurement when compared with TPS for VMAT_T_FFF plan. EAR estimation was done for all the OARs including target. The LARs for left lung, right lung, and right breast were evaluated. The maximum LAR values of 2.92 ± 0.14 were found for left lung with VMAT_C_FFF plans. This study shows that both OSLD and EBT3 films are suitable for dose measurements using Rando phantom. OSLD shows superior results when compared with films, especially with relatively larger distances. Maximum LAR values were found with VMAT_C_FFF plans. Considering the secondary cancer risk associated with the patients treated in the younger age group, it is suggested that in vivo dose estimation should be a part of treatment quality audit whenever possible.

Evaluation of parameters affecting gamma passing rate in patient-specific QAs for multiple brain lesions IMRS treatments using ray-station treatment planning system.

PurposeUsing intensity‐modulated radiosurgery (IMRS) with single isocenter for the treatment of multiple brain lesions has gained acceptance in recent years. One of the challenges of this technique is conducting a patient‐specific quality assurance (QA), involving accurate gamma passing rate (GPR) calculations for small and wide spread‐out targets. We evaluated effects of parameters such as dose grid and energy on GPR using our clinical IMRS plans.MethodsTen patients with total of 40 volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) plans were created in Raystation (V.8A) treatment planning system (TPS) for the Varian Edge Linac using 6 and 10 flattening filter‐free (FFF) beams and planned dose grids of 1 mm and 2 mm resulting in four plans with 6–10 targets per patient. All parameters and objectives except dose grid and energy were kept the same in all plans. Next, patient‐specific QAs were measured evaluating GPR with 10% threshold, 3%/3 mm objective, and an acceptance criterion of 95%. Modulation factors (MF) and confidence intervals were calculated. Two modes of measurements, standard density (SD) and high density (HD), were used.ResultsGenerally, plans computed with 1 mm dose grid have higher GPRs than those with 2 mm dose grid for both energies used. The GPRs of 6 FFF plans were higher than those of 10 FFF plans. GPR showed no noticeable difference between HD and SD measurements. Negative correlation between MF and GPR was observed. The HD pass rates fall within the confidence interval of SD.ConclusionCalculated dose grid should be less than or equal to one‐third of distance to agreement, thus 1 mm planned dose grid is recommended to reduce artifacts in gamma calculation. GPR of SD and HD measurement modes is almost the same, which indicates that SD mode is clinically preferable for performing patient‐specific QAs. According to our results, using 6 FFF beams with 1 mm planned dose grid is more accurate and reliable for dose calculation of IMRS plans.

Using FFF Beams to Improve the Therapeutic Ratio of Lung SBRT.

To investigate the extent to which lung stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) treatment plans can be improved by replacing conventional flattening filter (FF) beams with flattening filter-free (FFF) beams. We selected 15 patients who had received SBRT with conventional 6-MV photon beams for early-stage lung cancer. We imported the patients' treatment plans into the Eclipse 13.6 treatment planning system, in which we configured the AAA dose calculation model using representative beam data for a TrueBeam accelerator operated in 6-MV FFF mode. We then created new treatment plans by replacing the conventional FF beams in the original plans with FFF beams. The FFF plans had better target coverage than the original FF plans did. For the planning target volume, FFF plans significantly improved the D98, D95, D90, homogeneity index, and uncomplicated tumor control probability. In most cases, the doses to organs at risk were lower in FFF plans. FFF plans significantly reduced the mean lung dose, V10, V20, V30, and normal tissue complication probability for the total lung and improved the dosimetric indices for the ipsilateral lung. For most patients, FFF beams achieved lower maximum doses to the esophagus, heart, and the spinal cord; and a lower chest wall V30. Compared with FF beams, FFF beams achieved lower doses to organs at risk, especially the lung, without compromising tumor coverage; in fact, FFF beams improved coverage in most cases. Thus, replacing FF beams with FFF beams can achieve a better therapeutic ratio.

Volumetric-modulated arc therapy in craniospinal irradiation: a dosimetric analysis of acuros XB and analytical anisotropic algorithm comparing flattened and flattening filter-free beams with different energies

AbstractAim:To compare the dosimetric performance of flattening filter-free (FFF) beam and flattened beams (FBs) utilising volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) for craniospinal irradiation (CSI) planning.Materials and Methods:Five medulloblastoma patients were randomly selected retrospectively and 40 plans were generated. The dose prescription to the planning target volume (PTV) was 36 Gy in 20 fractions. VMAT plans were created using 6 MV and 10 MV FB and FFF beam. Final dose calculations were performed using Acuros XB (AXB) and analytical anisotropic algorithm (AAA). Dosimetric parameters such as D98%, D95%, D50%, V110%, conformity index (CI), homogeneity index (HI), low-grade dose index, high-grade dose index, dose to the organ at risks (OARs) and normal tissue mean dose were noted. The effect of low-dose volume on normal tissue was also analysed.Results:The 6 MV and 10 MV flattened and FFF beam plan generates similar target coverage, and a significant difference was observed in the HI and CI. FFF beam plan produces lower doses in some of the OARs as compared to FB. Significant differences were also noted in monitor unit (MU), body-PTV mean dose and low-dose spillage regions (1–10 Gy) outside the PTV. In our study, 6 MV and 10 MV FFF beam beams need 23–25% more MUs to achieve planning goals when compared to FBs. The increased MUs in FFF plan decreases the body-PTV mean dose (0·07–0·09 Gy in 6 MV FFF and 0·31 Gy in 10 MV FFF in both algorithms) when compared to FB plans.Conclusion:FFF beams generate a highly conformal and homogenous plan in CSI cases. FFF beam plan reduced the non-tumour dose and will aid in reducing the probability of second malignancies.

Standardized flattening filter free volumetric modulated arc therapy plans based on anteroposterior width for total body irradiation.

In this work, the feasibility of using flattening filter free (FFF) beams in volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) total body irradiation (TBI) treatment planning to decrease protracted beam‐on times for these treatments was investigated. In addition, a methodology was developed to generate standardized VMAT TBI treatment plans based on patient physical dimensions to eliminate plan optimization time. A planning study cohort of 47 TBI patients previously treated with optimized VMAT ARC 6 MV beams was retrospectively examined. These patients were sorted into six categories depending on height and anteroposterior (AP) width at the umbilicus. Using Varian Eclipse, clinical 40 cm × 10 cm open field arcs were substituted with 6 MV FFF. Mid‐plane lateral dose profiles in conjunction with relative arc output factors (RAOF) yielded how far a given multileaf collimator (MLC) leaf must move in order to achieve a mid‐plane 100% isodose for a specific control point. Linear interpolation gave the dynamic MLC aperture for the entire arc for each patient AP width category, which was subsequently applied through Python scripting. All FFF VMAT TBI plans were then evaluated by two radiation oncologists and deemed clinically acceptable. The FFF and clinical VMAT TBI plans had similar Body–5 mm D98% distributions, but overall the FFF plans had statistically significantly increased or broader Body–5 mm D2% and mean lung dose distributions. These differences are not considered clinically significant. Median beam‐on times for the FFF and clinical VMAT TBI plans were 11.07 and 18.06 min, respectively, and planning time for the FFF VMAT TBI plans was reduced by 34.1 min. In conclusion, use of FFF beams in VMAT TBI treatment planning resulted in dose homogeneity similar to our current VMAT TBI technique. Clinical dosimetric criteria were achieved for a majority of patients while planning and calculated beam‐on times were reduced, offering the possibility of improved patient experience.

Comparison of Spine SRS VMAT plans with Flattening Filter Free 6 MV or 10 MV beams

Spine stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) with VMAT plans are usually complex and use highly modulated beams to spare the spinal cord and to generate a conformal plan. The flattening filter free (FFF) beams are ideal because the high dose rates reduce delivery time. The dedicated SRS/stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) linacs commonly have 6 MV FFF (1400 MU/min) and 10 MV FFF (2400 MU/min) energies available. In this study, we investigated the differences in the quality of VMAT plans made with both FFF modes for the spine SRS. Twenty previously treated spine SRS patients (10 cervical (C) spine and 10 thoracic and lumbar spines(T,L) were planned using three VMAT arcs and treatment planning system’s auto-planning feature. Two plans were made for each patient with 18 Gy in one fraction using 6 MV FFF and 10 MV FFF beams. The same auto-planning template (objectives and settings) was used for both plans to reduce planner bias. 6 MV FFF plan (6FFF) was optimized using the auto-planning objectives and settings that were used for 10 MV FFF plan (10FFF). The template utilized varied across patients and determined iteratively by the planner until the spinal cord (or cauda equina) and plan quality objectives (a conformal plan with minimum of 90% coverage) were achieved. All 6FFF plans met planning constraints using 10FFF template except for 2 cases in which cord constraint was violated. These cases were replanned using a different template until a clinically acceptable plan was achieved. Mean values of maximum cord/cauda dose (Dmax), volume of cord/cauda equina receiving 10 Gy (V10Gy), minimum dose to target (Dmin), Paddick conformity index (CI), gradient index (GI), total monitor unit (MU) and total beam on time are shown in the table below. Values shown in bold were found to be statistically significant.Abstract TU_30_3191; Table 1C SpineT,L Spine6FFF10FFF6FFF10FFFCord Dmax (Gy)11.2 ± 1.011.9 ± 0.811.5 ± 1.111.6 ± 1.2 V10Gy (%)3.3 ± 2.24.9 ± 1.64.2 ± 2.54.4 ± 1.8Tumor Dmin (Gy)11.3 ± 2.411.7 ± 2.410.6 ± 1.310.8 ± 1.3 Conformity Index0.71 ± 0.100.70 ± 0.110.82 ± 0.060.82 ± 0.04 Gradient Index3.6 ± 0.33.7 ± 0.43.3 ± 0.33.2 ± 0.2 MU8283 ± 18707997 ± 160010368 ± 24629554 ± 1565 Time (min)5.9 ± 1.33.3 ± 0.77.4 ± 1.84.0 ± 0.7 Open table in a new tab The differences between 6 FFF and 10FFF plans were not statistically different except for cord/cauda equina Dmax and V10Gy for C-spine cases (p <0.05) and target Dmin for all cases (p<0.05). Total beam on time for 10FFF cases were significantly lower for all cases. Both energies provided similar plan qualities for all spine SRS cases. In general, 10 MV FFF would be better for spine SRS due to faster treatment delivery. 6 MV FFF would be preferable to achieve lower cord dose for C-Spine.

Quantitative comparison of volumetric-modulated arc therapy plans for liver cancer using flattening filter-free and flattening filter modes based on plan quality metric (PQM)

Objective To quantitatively assess the plan quality of conventional fractionated volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) plans for liver cancer treatments using flattening filter-free (FFF) and flattening filter (FF) modes based on plan quality metric (PQM). Methods A total of ten patients with liver tumor were selected. The patients were planned in FF and FFF mode of 6 MV X-ray respectively. The dose distribution of the planning target volume (PTV) and the organ at risk (OAR) were evaluated, and the monitor units (MUs) and the beam on time (BoT) were compared. According to the clinical requirements, a PQM with 16 submetrics was defined to evaluate the plan quality of the two modes. Results The maximal dose of FFF plan was less than that of FF plan (t=3.828, P<0.05). The normalized volume of 5 Gy (V5) and mean dose (Dmean) of the normal liver of FFF plan were lower than those of the FF plan (t=2.716, 3.007, P<0.05). The average MU of FFF plan [(574±130) MU] was higher than that of FF plan [(518±81) MU](t=-2.782, P<0.05), while the average BoT of FFF plan [(108±36)s] was significantly lower than that of FF plan [(160±29) s](t=6.767, P<0.05). The score of FFF plan was higher than that of FF plan (t=-2.746, P<0.05). Conclusions FFF mode can better protect the OAR at low dose levels. The MU of FFF mode plan were higher, but the beam on time was significantly lower than FF mode plan. With reference to the PQM evaluation criteria, the overall plan quality of the FFF mode was slightly higher. Key words: Plan quality metric; Flattening filter-free; Liver cancer; Volumetric modulated arc therapy; Dosimetry

Evaluation of dosimetric impact of Flattening Filter-Free (FFF) Photon Beams in 3D conformal radiotherapy

Flattening Filter Free (FFF) photon beams have been frequently used in radiotherapy clinical practice. This study aimed to analyze the dosimetric quality of the FFF beams, as compared to the standard flattened beams (FB) for plans of treatment of three patients involving three cancer sites using the 6 and 10 MV photon energies and the 3D conformal radiotherapy technique (3D-CRT). The doses to the planning target volumes (PTVs) and organs at risk (OARs) were compared. The dose-volume histogram curves analysis show that no significant differences between FFF and FB plans were found in the coverage and mean dose for the PTV, the OAR revealed slight differences. So the FFF photon beam achieved comparable dosimetric quality as the standard flat beam.

Flattening filter-free technique in volumetric modulated arc therapy for lung stereotactic body radiotherapy: A clinical comparison with the flattening filter technique.

The present study sought to evaluate the impact of the flattening filter-free (FFF) technique in volumetric modulated arc therapy for lung stereotactic body radiotherapy. Its clinical safety and availability were compared with the flattening filter (FF) method. The cases of 65 patients who underwent lung volumetric modulated arc therapy-stereotactic body radiotherapy (VMAT-SBRT) using FF or FFF techniques were reviewed. A total of 55 Gy/4 fractions (fr) was prescribed for peripheral lesions or 56 Gy/7 fr for central lesions. The total monitor units (MU), treatment time, dose to tumors, dose to organs at risk, tumor control (local control rate, overall survival, progression-free survival) and adverse events between cases treated with FF and cases treated with the FFF technique were compared. A total of 35 patients were treated with conventional FF techniques prior to November 2014 and 30 patients were treated with FFF techniques after this date. It was revealed that the beam-on time was significantly shortened by the FFF technique (P<0.01). Other factors were similar for FFF and FF plans in respect to conformity (P=0.95), homogeneity (P=0.20) and other dosimetric values, including total MU and planning target volume/internal target volume coverage. The median follow-up period was 18 months (range, 2-35). One-year local control rates were 97.1 and 90.0% in the FF group and FFF groups, respectively (P=0.33). Grade 3 pneumonitis was observed in 5.8% of FF patients and 3.4% of FFF patients (P=1.00). No other adverse events ≥grade 3 were observed. The results of the study suggest that VMAT-SBRT using the FFF technique shortens the treatment time for lung SBRT while maintaining a high local control rate with low toxicity.

The Dosimetric Effect of Prostate Motion in Flattening Filter Free VMAT Treatments Using Extreme Hypofractionation

To evaluate the performance of two treatment planning systems (TPS), using radiotherapy beams both with and without flattening filter, for extreme hypo-fractionated prostate cancer treatment. The TPSs were evaluated regarding plan quality and robustness with respect to prostate motion. With hypofractionation, the treatment time per fraction is increased, making prostate motion more significant. Flattening filter free treatments can decrease the treatment time due to the higher dose rate, and therefore reduce the effect of prostate motion. Prostate cancer patients treated with extreme hypofractionation (7x6.1 Gy=42.7 Gy) in the experimental arm of the randomized Scandinavian HYPO-RT-PC trial were used in this study. The TPSs used were Varian Eclipse (Varian Medical Systems) and RayStation (RaySearch Laboratories). The treatment plan comparison was made using the Pareto front method. Several VMAT plans were optimized with varying importance assigned to rectal sparing and PTV coverage objectives. The rectal volume receiving more than 90%, (Rectum, V90%), of the prescribed dose was plotted as a function of the PTV under dosage, (PTV, V95%). Two different beam qualities were used on each TPS, 10MV with flattening filter (FF) and 10MV flattening filter free (FFF). All plans were made for a Varian TrueBeam accelerator. The Pareto optimal plans, where one objective cannot be improved without deteriorating the other, formed a front for each TPS and beam quality. Three plans for each Pareto front were selected for measurement from three different regions in the fronts. These were defined as follows: PTV more important than Rectum (PTV>>Rect), Rectum more important than PTV (Rect>>PTV) and the knee of the Pareto front. The latter is the point where the target coverage starts to drastically decrease without significant improvement in rectum dose. The measurements were performed using the Delta4 Phantom+ (ScandiDos) and motion was simulated using the HexaMotion device with realistic motion patterns. The measurements were evaluated with gamma analysis using the local clinical protocol at our clinic (90% pass rate at 3%/2mm). The Pareto front plan comparison showed very small differences between the two TPSs and beam qualities. Eclipse had slightly better target coverage in the PTV>>Rect region but RayStation had lower rectum doses in the Rect>>PTV region. All plans fulfilled the dose-volume constraints of the trial protocol. However, all fronts showed that the rectum dose could be decreased even more without losing target coverage. The static measurements showed 100% pass rate for all plans. For the in-motion measurements, the FF plans had a pass rate below the clinically acceptable 90% pass rate while the FFF plans were above 90%. The beam-on time was decreased from 2.5 min to 1 min. Both TPSs delivered plans with good quality for both FF and FFF beams. The FFF plans proved to be clinically acceptable even with prostate motion for both TPSs.

Preclinical studies for implementing flattening filter-free beams in hypofractionated volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) for prostate cancer radiotherapy

AbstractBackgroundVolumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) has emerged as one of the most favourable techniques for radiotherapy treatment in recent years because of its conformal dose distribution to the planning target volume (PTV), lower doses to adjacent normal organs at risk (OARs) and faster and easier dose delivery. A typical conventional VMAT protocol for low-intermediate risk prostate cancer uses a flattened 6 MV photon beam to deliver 78 Gy in 39 fractions, however, a recent Radiation Therapy Oncology Group study investigated prostate cancer radiotherapy with a hypofractionated dose scheme of 36·25 Gy in 5 fractions. One advantage of flattening filter-free (FFF) beams in radiotherapy is the higher doses in the central region on the dose profile and much higher dose delivery rates.Methods and materialsThis paper reports the investigation of preclinical studies for implementing FFF beams in hypofractionated VMAT for prostate cancer radiotherapy. All treatment planning were accomplished using Varian EclipseTM treatment planning system version 11 and delivered on Varian Truebeam linear accelerators. The studies compared the biological-effective dose–volume histograms and dose–volume histograms of PTV and OARs for 20 patients using conventional and hypofractionated dose schemes. The study also evaluated the 6 and 10 MV FFF by comparing 6 and 10 MV VMAT plans with the FFF beams. The treatment time was investigated using plans with 6 MV beams and doses of 2, 4, 5, 6, 7·25 Gy/fraction and plans with 10 MV FFF with a dose of 7·25 Gy/fraction. We also investigated an angular monitor unit (MU) quantity (MU/deg) and its threshold value for RapidArcTM plans, beyond which FFF beams can be considered superior to flattened beams in terms of treatment time increased caused by higher dose per fraction.ResultsThe results show that the hypofractionated plans resulted in greater biological equivalent doses to PTV and lower doses to OARs. The 10 MV FFF plans have statistically lower mean doses to all the OARs, whereas PTV homogeneity index remains the same compared with other beam energies. The mean body integral dose for the 20 patients is 8·7% lower using 10 MV FFF compared with 6 MV FFF mainly because of the higher energy and less required MUs with the 10 MV FFF beam. The hypofractionated scheme with 10 MV FFF plan has the same treatment time as that of the 6 MV plan at 2 Gy/fraction, as the higher dose delivery rates at 10 MV FFF can compensate for the higher prescribed dose per fraction without the need of extra treatment time.ConclusionIn this study, we observed that the 10 MV FFF beam is better for hypofractionated prostate cancer VMAT plan delivery. The threshold value of MU/deg is found to be 2·083 MU/deg based on our machine configurations.

Determination of clinically appropriate flattening filter free (FFF) energy for treating lung SABR using treatment plans and delivery measurements

Higher doses are delivered over a short duration for stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) and as a result individual fraction times are significantly higher compared with conventional radiotherapy. Furthermore, many lung SABR patients are elderly with associated co-morbidities and may not be able to retain their treatment position adequately. These patients benefit from faster treatment deliveries which can be achieved by using flattening filter free (FFF) beams. To determine a clinically appropriate FFF energy for accurate delivery, 15 previously delivered flattened 6 MV lung SABR plans were re-planned at 6 FFF and 10 FFF, with organ at risk (OAR) and target dose-volume statistics examined for significance. A two half arc technique, the Monitor Unit Objective Function and the AcurosXB algorithm were employed within the EclipseTM planning system (V11, Varian Medical System). The deliverability of these FFF plans was verified by physical measurement on a TrueBeamTM (V2.5, Varian Medical System) using the CompassTM dosimetry system (V3.1, IBA Dosimetry) in addition to the usual treatment planning system comparisons. Acceptable plans were produced for all beam energies. 6 FFF provided statistically significant OAR sparing compared to 6 FF and 10 FFF. However, absolute dose differences were not clinically significant and doses were well within recommended clinical tolerances. Skin sparing was superior in the 10 FFF plans. Overall, reduction in treatment delivery time of 61% and 55% was found when using 10 FFF and 6 FFF respectively compared to 6 FF. A 15% reduction in the average treatment time was achieved with 10 FFF when compared to 6 FFF. Treatment delivery verification measurements were compared with clinically delivered 6 FF plans and no significant differences in the deliverability were seen between the plans. As a result of this study 10 FFF has been implemented for SABR lung planning locally.

SU-F-T-338: Flattening Filter Free Photon Beams Can Achieve the Same Plan Quality as Conventional Flattened Beams for Prostate Radiotherapy

Purpose: Some modern linear accelerators are equipped with one low energy flat beam and two flattening filter free (FFF) beams at high and low energies. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether the high energy FFF beam can produce the same plan quality as the conventional low energy flat beam, using a volumetric modulated arc (VMAT) technique for prostate patients. Methods: Ten prostate cancer patients were selected with a prescription of 78Gy. For each patient, three plans were created: (a) double arc flat 6MV plan used clinically; (b) double arc 10MV FFF plan; (c) single arc 10MV FFF plan. Each plan was prescribed so that at least 95% of the PTV received the prescription dose. The following dosimetric endpoints were evaluated: volume receiving 78Gy (V78) of the CTV and PTV, PTV conformality index (CI, ratio of prescription isodose volume to the PTV volume), bladder volume receiving 70Gy (V70) and 60Gy (V60), rectum volume receiving 70Gy (V70) and 50Gy (V50), dose to 10cc of the rectum, and volume of both femoral heads receiving 50Gy (V50). Total monitor units for each plan were recorded. Results: No significant difference was found for all dosimetric endpoints between all plans (p>0.05). Compared to the 6MV plans, monitor units were higher with the double arc 10MV FFF plans and lower with the single arc 10MV FFF plans, 29% and 4% respectively. Conclusion: Both single arc and double arc 10MV FFF VMAT can achieve equivalent plan quality as 6MV flat beam double arc treatment plans. With the gantry speed restriction, a high dose rate of 2400MU/min may allow the optimizer to use more MUs than actually needed. Single arc 10MV FFF VMAT plans are a reasonable alternative to double arc 6MV flat beam VMAT plans.

SU‐F‐T‐283: A Novel Device to Enable Portal Dosimetry for Flattening Filter Free Beams

Purpose:Varian's electronic portal imaging device (EPID) based portal dosimetry tool is a popular and effective means of performing IMRT QA. EPIDs for older models of the TrueBeam accelerator utilize a 40cmx30cm Image Detection Unit (IDU) that saturates at the center for standard source to imager distances with high dose rate flattening filter free (FFF) beams. This makes portal dosimetry not possible and an alternative means of IMRT QA necessary. We developed a filter that would attenuate the beam to a dose rate measureable by the IDU for portal dosimetry IMRT QA.Methods:Multipurpose 304 stainless steel plates were placed on an accessory tray to attenuate the beam. Profiles of an open field measured on the IDU were acquired with varying number of plates to assess the thickness needed to reduce the maximum dose rates of 6XFFF and 10XFFF beams to measurable levels. A new portal dose image prediction (PDIP) model was commissioned based on open field measurements with plates in position, and a modified beam profile was input to portal dosimetry calibration at the console to empirically correct for attenuation and scatter. The portal dosimetry tool was used to assess agreement between predicted and measured doses for open 25×25cm2 fields and intensity modulated fields using 6XFFF and 10XFFF beams.Results:Thicknesses of 2.5cm and 3.8cm of steel were required to reduce the highest dose rates to a measureable level for 6XFFF and 10XFFF, respectively. Gamma analysis using a 3%/3mm relative criterion with the filter in place and using the new PDIP model resulted in 98.2% and 93.6% of pixels passing while intensity modulated fields showed passing rates of 98.2% and 99.0%.Conclusion:Use of the filter allows for portal dosimetry to be used for IMRT QA of FFF plans in place of purchasing a second option for IMRT QA.

Role of Volumetric-Modulated Arc Therapy with Flattening Filter Free Delivery in Lung Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy

PurposeTo evaluate the role of volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) combined with flattening filter free (FFF) beam delivery in lung stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT), using Acuros XB algorithm. Materials and methodsNinety-eight stage I lung cancer cases treated with SBRT were included. Retrospectively, single arc, 6 MV VMAT with FFF and flattened field (FF) beam plans were generated using the identical optimization criteria with Acuros XB dose computation algorithm. Optimization constraints included target dose ratio of 50% prescription isodose volume to target (R50%) and maximal dose at 2 cm from the target (D2cm). Study parameters, including the number of monitor units (MUs), mean target dose, conformality number, and heterogeneity index of the target, R50%, D2cm, and mean dose to normal tissues were determined and compared for the two delivery modes. A paired matched t-test was used to compare the difference. The effect of tumor, patient and treatment mode (FFF vs. FF) on the difference of MUs obtained from the two delivery systems was statistically determined using linear regression analyses. ResultsFFF beams required 6.9% (range −3.4% to 15.6%) more MUs and resulted in slightly higher values for mean target dose, R50% and D2cm (all P < .0001) compared with FF beams. Conformality number, homogeneity index of target, and mean dose to the normal body were similar between the two plans. Logistic regression analysis confirmed that VMAT with FFF mode, not the tumor or patient-specific parameters, caused the increase in MUs compared with FF beam delivery (P = .043). ConclusionsIn lung SBRT, using VMAT with FFF beam required 7% more MUs compared with a VMAT with FF beam plan and provided similar target coverage. The low leakage dose advantage of FFF delivery is offset by the increased number of MU. The only advantage available to the FFF beams is their estimated faster delivery.

Single-fraction flattening filter–free volumetric modulated arc therapy for lung cancer: Dosimetric results and comparison with flattened beams technique

PurposeTo report on single-fraction stereotactic body radiotherapy (RT) (SBRT) with flattening filter (FF)–free (FFF) volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) for lung cancer and to compare dosimetric results with VMAT with FF. Methods and materialsOverall, 25 patients were treated with 6-MV FFF VMAT (Varian TrueBeam STx LINAC) to a prescribed dose of 24Gy in a single fraction. Treatment plans were recreated using FF VMAT. Dose-volume indices, monitor units (MU), and treatment times were compared between FFF and FF VMAT techniques. ResultsDose constraints to PTV, spinal cord, and lungs were reached in FFF and FF plans. In FFF plans, average conformity index was 1.13 (95% CI: 1.07 to1.38). Maximum doses to spinal cord, heart, esophagus, and trachea were 2.9Gy (95% CI: 0.4 to 6.7Gy), 0.8Gy (95% CI: 0 to 3.6Gy), 3.3Gy (95% CI: 0.02 to 13.9Gy), and 1.5Gy (95% CI: 0 to 4.9Gy), respectively. Average V7Gy, V7.4Gy, and mean dose to the healthy lung were 126.5cc (95% CI: 41.3 to 248.9cc), 107.3cc (95% CI: 18.7 to 232.8cc), and 1.1Gy (95% CI: 0.3 to 2.2Gy), respectively. No statistically significant differences were found in dosimetric results and MU between FF and FFF treatments. Treatment time was reduced by an average factor of 2.31 (95% CI: 2.15 to 2.43) from FF treatments to FFF, and the difference was statistically significant. ConclusionsFFF VMAT for lung SBRT provides equivalent dosimetric results to the target and organs at risk as FF VMAT while significantly reducing treatment time.