Vol 21, No 6 (2016)
Original research articles
Published online: 2016-11-01

open access

Page views 183
Article views/downloads 182
Get Citation

Connect on Social Media

Connect on Social Media

Prostate intensity-modulated radiotherapy planning in seven mouse clicks: Development of a class solution for cancer

Maree Wood1, Amara Fonseca2, David Sampson2, Andrew Kovendy1, Justin Westhuyzen1, Thomas Shakespeare1, Kirsty Turnbull1
DOI: 10.1016/j.rpor.2016.09.005
Rep Pract Oncol Radiother 2016;21(6):567-570.

Abstract

Aim

The aim of the retrospective study was to develop a planning class solution for prostate intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) that achieved target and organs-at-risk (OAR) doses within acceptable departmental protocol criteria using the Monaco treatment planning system (Elekta-CMS Software, MO, USA).

Background

Advances in radiation therapy technology have led to a re-evaluation of work practices. Class solutions have the potential to produce highly conformal plans in a time-efficient manner.

Materials and Methods

Using data from intermediate and high risk prostate cancer patients, a stepwise quality improvement model was employed. Stage 1 involved the development of a broadly based treatment template developed across 10 patients. Stage 2 involved template refinement and clinical audit (n[[ce:hsp sp="0.25"/]]=[[ce:hsp sp="0.25"/]]20); Stage 3, template review (n[[ce:hsp sp="0.25"/]]=[[ce:hsp sp="0.25"/]]50) and Stage 4 an assessment of a revised template against the actual treatment plan involving 72 patients.

Results

The computer algorithm that comprised the Stage 4 template met clinical treatment criteria for 82% of patients. Minor template changes were required for a further 13% of patients. Major changes were required in 4%; one patient could not be assessed. The average calculation time was 13[[ce:hsp sp="0.25"/]]min and involved seven mouse clicks by the planner. Thus, the new template met treatment criteria or required only minor changes in 95% of prostate patients; this is an encouraging result suggesting improvements in planning efficiency and consistency.

Conclusion

It is feasible to develop a class solution for prostate IMRT using a stepwise quality improvement model which delivers clinically acceptable plans in the great majority of prostate cases.

Article available in PDF format

View PDF Download PDF file



Reports of Practical Oncology and Radiotherapy