open access
Monte carlo clinical dosimetry
open access
Abstract
The choice of the most appropriate strategy for radiotherapy treatment is mainly based on the use of a planning system. With the introduction of new techniques (conformal and/or small fields, asymmetrical and non coplanar beams, true 3D calculation, IMRT) the trustworthiness of the algorithms used is questioned. An alternative verification procedure has become increasingly more necessary to warranty treatment delivery.
The reliability of the Monte Carlo method is generally acknowledged. However, its clinical use has not been practical due to the high CPU time required. During the last few years our objective has decreased CPU time by means of a new process distribution technique. This reduction has made it feasible, not only to apply physical dosimetry under special conditions, but also to use it in numerous clinical cases employing photon and electron conformal fields, in radiosurgery, and IMRT.
The procedure carried out is presented. Furthermore, conventional Treatment Planning System calculations are compared with the Monte Carlo simulations.
Abstract
The choice of the most appropriate strategy for radiotherapy treatment is mainly based on the use of a planning system. With the introduction of new techniques (conformal and/or small fields, asymmetrical and non coplanar beams, true 3D calculation, IMRT) the trustworthiness of the algorithms used is questioned. An alternative verification procedure has become increasingly more necessary to warranty treatment delivery.
The reliability of the Monte Carlo method is generally acknowledged. However, its clinical use has not been practical due to the high CPU time required. During the last few years our objective has decreased CPU time by means of a new process distribution technique. This reduction has made it feasible, not only to apply physical dosimetry under special conditions, but also to use it in numerous clinical cases employing photon and electron conformal fields, in radiosurgery, and IMRT.
The procedure carried out is presented. Furthermore, conventional Treatment Planning System calculations are compared with the Monte Carlo simulations.
Keywords
Monte Carlo simulation; clinical dosimetry; Treatment Planning System; process distribution
About this articleTitle
Monte carlo clinical dosimetry
Journal
Reports of Practical Oncology and Radiotherapy
Issue
Pages
43-51
Published online
2002-01-01
DOI
10.1016/S1507-1367(02)70978-4
Bibliographic record
Rep Pract Oncol Radiother 2002;7(2):43-51.
Keywords
Monte Carlo simulation
clinical dosimetry
Treatment Planning System
process distribution
Authors
Francisco Sánchez-Doblado
Antonio Leal
María Perucha
Rafael Arráns
Luis Núñez
Joan V. Roselló
Beatriz Sánchez-Nieto
Ester Carrasco
Antonio Gonzalez
Juan C. Medrano
Luis Errazquin
José A. Sánchez-Calzado