Octavius 4D characterization for flattened and flattening filter free rotational deliveries

Impact of iso-dose levels on pre-treatment quality assurance in volumetric modulated arc therapy

The current standard of modern radiotherapy pre-treatment evaluation of dose distributions measured using gamma pass percentage is the predominant metric for Patient-Specific Quality Assurance (PSQA). The aim of the study was to analyze the impact of the different dose levels for three different gamma criteria in various anatomical sites. Retrospectively selected 120 VMAT plans of the brain, head and neck, thorax, and pelvic sites were considered for this study. Quality assurance plans were created and measurements were done using PTW Octavius 4D phantom. Three different gamma criteria were used to evaluate different dose levels' volume gamma passing rates. The maximum gamma passing rate for all dose levels except 100% with a 3%/3 mm criterion was observed for the pelvis site. A significant variation in dose levels was observed with the 3%/2 mm gamma criteria for head and neck sites, particularly above the 85% dose level compared to other anatomical sites. Using 2%/2 mm gamma criteria, there was a rapid fall in the gamma passing rate and all the dose levels showed a significant variation among different sites. This study demonstrated significant variations in gamma passing rates across anatomical sites and dose levels, emphasizing the importance of tailored QA protocols. The findings underscore the need for site-specific action limits and highlight the sensitivity of stricter gamma criteria for detecting errors in complex treatment plans.

RTOG 0915-compliant patient specific QA for lung stereotactic body radiotherapy using the new PTW 1600SRS detector array

PURPOSE

An area of focus in radiotherapy is the treatment of oligometastatic lung cancer using highly conformal techniques such as SBRT, performed using VMAT that involves flattening filter free (FFF) beams. This study proposes a new calibration procedure for PTW Octavius 1600SRS detector array and was designed to also evaluate clinical and dosimetric aspects of a patient-specific quality assurance (PSQA) for lung SBRT patients.

METHODS

The cohort consists of 20 patients, treated for lung metastases using SBRT with 50 Gy dose in 5 fractions (10 Gy/fr). The proposed calibration method uses only one calibration factor determined at maximum dose rate of 6MV FFF photon beam. The dosimetric accuracy of achieving a high dose gradient was analyzed using the RTOG 0915 protocol and was confirmed by PSQA procedures using the PTW Octavius 1600SRS detector.

RESULTS

Conformity index, gradient index, maximum dose at 2 cm and V20 parameters were evaluated with clinical favorable results, with only two plans with lesions situated in the inferior lobe exceeding the deviation allowed for the gradient index. Gamma passing rates using the new calibration method were 98.93% and 99.38% for different gamma criteria of 2 mm/2% and 1 mm/3%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The proposed method for calibration using one calibration factor at maximum dose rate for the involved photon beam shows clinically acceptable gamma passing rates. Employing the RTOG 0915 protocol for lung SBRT treatment plan evaluation brings important dosimetric information about treatment plan quality and dose gradient fall-off which can be correlated with the results achieved during the pretreatment verification procedures.

Clinical implementation of a log file-based machine and patient QA system for IMRT and VMAT treatment plans

PURPOSE

To determine the error detection sensitivity of a commercial log file-based system (LINACWatch®, LW) for integration into clinical routine and to compare it with a measurement device (OCTAVIUS 4D, Oct4D) for IMRT and VMAT delivery QA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

76 VMAT/IMRT plans (H&N, prostate, rectum and breast) preliminarily classified according to their Modulation Complexity Score (MCS) calculated by LW, were considered. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) Curves were used to establish gamma criteria for LW. 12 plans (3 for each site) were intentionally modified in order to introduce delivery errors regarding MLC, jaws, collimator, gantry and MU (for a total set of 168 incorrect plans) and irradiated on Oct4D; the corresponding log files were analysed by LW. Each incorrect plan was compared to the error-free plan using γ-index analysis for MLC, jaws and MU errors investigation and Root-Mean-Square (RMS) values for gantry and collimator errors investigation.

RESULTS

MCS ranges values were: 0.10-0.20 for H&N, 0.21-0.40 for prostate and rectum, 0.41-1.00 for breast. From ROC curves, the Gamma Passing Rate (GPR) thresholds were: 87%, 92%, 99% for H&N, prostate and rectum, and breast, respectively. The 1.5%/1.5 mm/local criteria were adopted for the γ-analysis. LW sensitivity in detecting the introduced errors was higher when compared to Oct4D: 48.5% vs 30.4% respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

LW can be considered useful complement to phantom-based delivery QA of IMRT/VMAT plans. The MCS tool is effective in detecting over or under modulated plans prior to pre-treatment QA. However, rigorous and routinely machine QCs are recommended.

Correlation between patient-specific quality assurance in volumetric modulated arc therapy and 2D dose image features

In radiotherapy, air-filled ion chamber detectors are ubiquitously used in routine dose measurements for treatment planning. However, its use has been restricted by intrinsic low spatial resolution barriers. We developed one procedure for patient-specific quality assurance (QA) in arc radiotherapy by coalescing two adjacent measurement images into a single image to improve spatial resolution and sampling frequency, and investigated how different spatial resolutions affect the QA results. PTW 729 and 1500 ion chamber detectors were used for dosimetric verification via coalescing two measurements with 5 mm-couch shift and the isocenter, and only isocenter measurement, which we call coalescence and standard acquisition (SA). Statistical process control (SPC), process capability analysis (PCA), and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve were used to compare the performance of the two procedures in determining tolerance levels and identifying clinically relevant errors. By analyzing 1256 γ values calculated on interpolated data points, our results indicated that detector 1500 showed higher averages in coalescence cohorts at different tolerance criteria and the dispersion degrees were spread out smaller. Detector 729 yielded a slightly lower process capability of 0.79, 0.76, 1.10, and 1.34, but detector 1500 exhibited somewhat different results of 0.94, 1.42, 1.19, and 1.60 in magnitude. The results of SPC individual control chart showed that cases in coalescence cohorts with γ values lowering its lower control limit (LCL) were greater than those in SA cohorts for detector 1500. A combination of the width of multi-leaf collimator (MLC) leaf, the cross-sectional area of the single detector, and the spacing between adjacent detectors might lead to discrepancies in percent γ values across diverse spatial resolution scenarios. The accuracy of reconstructed volume dose is mainly determined by the interpolation algorithm used in dosimetric systems. The magnitude of filling factor in the ion chamber detectors determined its ability to detect dose deviations. SPC and PCA results indicated that coalescence procedure could detect more potential failure QA results than SA while enhancing action thresholds.

EVALUATION OF PATIENT-SPECIFIC IMRT QUALITY ASSURANCE AND POINT DOSE MEASUREMENT FOR COMPLEX HEAD AND NECK AND BRAIN CANCER USING GAFCHROMIC EBT3 FILM

Patient-specific intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) quality assurance (QA) is essential for complex radiotherapy treatment as it involves complex intensity modulation and high-dose gradient regions. IMRT QA was performed by point dose verification and two-dimensional (2D) dose distribution measurement using gamma method. Calibrated External Beam Therapy 3 (EBT3) film was used for point dose and pre-treatment verification of 10 IMRT plans, five complex Head and Neck (HN) and five brain cases. The gamma passing rate (GPR) was evaluated for 3%/3 mm gamma criteria and compared with 2D array. Isocentre dose was measured for all 10 IMRT plans on EBT3 film. Percentage deviation of point dose measurement from TPS calculated was found 0.4% for brain cases and 2.9% for HN cases. The GPR for 3%/3 mm criteria was obtained higher than 95% for brain and HN cases. Results suggest that film dosimetry is also a reliable verification system for patient-specific IMRT QA as the 2D array.

Patient specific evaluation of breathing motion induced interplay effects

PURPOSE

In lung SABR, interplay between target motion and dynamically changing beam parameters can affect the target coverage. To identify the potential need for motion-management techniques, a comprehensive methodology for pre-treatment estimation of interplay effects has been implemented.

METHODS

In conjunction with an alpha-version of VeriSoft and OCTAVIUS 4D (PTW-Freiburg, Germany), a method is presented to calculate a virtual, motion-simulated 3D dose distribution based on measurement data acquired in a stationary phantom and a subsequent correction with time-dependent target-motion patterns. In-house software has been developed to create user-defined motion patterns based on either simplistic or real patient-breathing patterns including the definition of the exact beam starting phase. The approach was validated by programmed couch and phantom motion during beam delivery. Five different breathing traces with extremely altered beam-on phases (0 % and 50 % respiratory phase) and a superior-inferior motion altitude of 25 mm were used to probe the influence of interplay effects for 14 lung SABR plans. Gamma analysis (2 %/2mm) was used for quantification.

RESULTS

Validation measurements resulted in >98 % pass rates. Regarding the interplay effect evaluation, gamma pass rates of <92 % were observed for sinusoidal breathing patterns with <25 number of breaths per delivery time (NBs) and realistic patterns with <18 NBs.

CONCLUSION

The potential influence of interplay effects on the target coverage is highly dependent on the patient's breathing behaviour. The presented moving-platform-free approach can be used for verification of ITV-based treatment plans to identify whether the clinical goals are achievable without explicit use of a respiratory management technique.

Comparative performance analysis of 2D and 3D gamma metrics for patient specific QA in VMAT using Octavius 4D with 2D-Array 1500

INTRODUCTION

Gamma pass percentage (GPP) is the predominant metric used for Patient Specific Quality Assurance (PSQA) in radiation therapy. The dimensionality of the measurement geometry in PSQA has evolved from 2D planar to 3D planar, and presently to state-of-the-art 3D volumetric geometry. We aim to critically examine the performance of the three-dimensional gammas vis-à-vis the older gamma metrics of lower dimensionality to determine their mutual fungibility in PSQA, using clinically approved Volumetric Arc Therapy (VMAT) plans.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Gamma pass percentages derived from PSQA for VMAT plans using Octavius 4D phantom with 2D-Array 1500 and its proprietary software were recorded. 2D planar, 3D planar, and 3D volumetric gamma pass percentages were retrospectively extracted for multiple treatment plans at three sites, using three acceptance limits, and for two modes of normalization. The differences in mean pass percentages, and the pairwise correlation between geometries were calculated within limits of statistical significance.

RESULTS

A significant increase in mean pass rates was observed from 2D planar to 3D planar geometries. The difference was less pronounced from 3D planar to 3D volumetric. 2D planar v/s 3D planar showed a significant degree of correlation among themselves, which was not seen against most of the 3D volumetric pass rates.

CONCLUSION

The mean gamma pass rates show conclusive evidence of the benefits of shifting from 2D planar to higher dimensions measurement geometries, but the benefits of using 3D volumetric compared to 3D planar is not always unequivocal. The correlations show mixed results regarding the interdependence of pass percentages at different geometries.

Patient-specific quality assurance on a Varian Halcyon linear accelerator using a PTW Octavius 4D device

This study investigates and validates the use of the Octavius 4D system for patient specific quality assurance on Halcyon, which is capable of rotating at 4 revolutions per minute (RPM). A commercially available PTW Octavius 4D system was used for this study which had a maximum rotation speed of 3 RPM. Initial validation included testing the accuracy of the inclinometer, percent depth doses (PDD), output factors, and dose profiles for selected static square fields. The same static fields were also subject to a gamma comparison with the TPS. This was followed by an evaluation of twelve clinical treatment plans and seven non-clinical plans with varying gantry rotation speeds. All testing was completed using detector array measurement times of 200 ms and 100 ms. Inclinometer accuracy was within 0.3° of actual gantry angle. Output factors varied less than 0.6%, PDD differences were no greater than 1.4%, and dose profile differences were less than 2.2%. Gamma pass rates for the static fields were 96.7% (2%/2mm) and 99.7% (3%/3mm). A prototype control unit, which had a maximum rotation speed of 4 RPM was also used to test the clinical and non-clinical plans. For the clinical plans, the mean gamma pass rates (2%/2mm) were 86.1% and 88.1% for the commercial unit and prototype unit respectively. Results using a measurement time of 200 ms were superior to those using 100 ms. For Halcyon deliveries greater than 3 RPM, worst case gamma results for the commercial unit were 28.6% compared to 98.5% using the prototype unit. Accurate patient specific quality assurance results can be obtained using the Octavius 4D system with a Halcyon linac, provided that the system measurement time is kept at 200 ms and the rotation speed of Halycon does not exceed 3 RPM. For higher RPM deliveries, an Octavius 4D unit with 4 RPM rotation capability is recommended.

EPID-based 3D dosimetry for pre-treatment FFF VMAT stereotactic body radiotherapy plan verification using dosimetry CheckTM

PURPOSE

The software Dosimetry Check (DC) reconstructs the 3D dose distribution on CT images data set by using EPID measured signal. This study aimed to evaluate DC for stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) with unflattened photon beams (FFF) for dosimetric independent plan verification in pre-treatment modality.

METHODS

DC v.4.1 was configured for Varian TrueBeam STx FFF beams equipped with EPID aS-1200. The DC FFF models were tested using arc open fields (from 1×1 cm² to 15×15 cm²) and VMAT (Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy) SBRT plans on phantom and patient CTs. DC dose distributions (D_DC) were compared with that calculated by Eclipse with Acuros XB algorithm (D_AXB) and one measured by Octavius 1000 SRS detector (D_OCT). All differences were quantified in terms of the local 3D gamma passing rate (%GP), DVH and point dose differences.

RESULTS

DC was configured for FFF VMAT using an appropriate correction procedure. %GP_2%2mm (mean±standard deviation) of D_OCT-D_DC was 96.3±2.7% for open fields whereas it was 90.1±5.9% for plans on homogeneous phantom CT. However, average %GP_3%3mm of D_AXB-D_DC was 95.0±4.1 for treatments on patient CT. The fraction of plans passing the %GP_3%3mm DQA tolerance level [10% (50%) of maximum dose threshold] were 20/20 (14/20) and 18/20 (16/20) for OCT on phantom CT and DC on patient CT, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

DC characterization for FFF beams was performed. For stereotactic VMAT plan verifications DC showed good agreement with TPS whereas underlined discrepancies with Octavius in the high dose regions. A customized tolerance level is required for EPID-based VMAT FFF pre-treatment verification when DC system is applied.

Transit and non-transit 3D EPID dosimetry versus detector arrays for patient specific QA

PURPOSE

Despite their availability and simplicity of use, Electronic Portal Imaging Devices (EPIDs) have not yet replaced detector arrays for patient specific QA in 3D. The purpose of this study is to perform a large scale dosimetric evaluation of transit and non-transit EPID dosimetry against absolute dose measurements in 3D.

METHODS

After evaluating basic dosimetric characteristics of the EPID and two detector arrays (Octavius 1500 and Octavius 1000SRS ), 3D dose distributions for 68 VMAT arcs, and 10 IMRT plans were reconstructed within the same phantom geometry using transit EPID dosimetry, non-transit EPID dosimetry, and the Octavius 4D system. The reconstructed 3D dose distributions were directly compared by γ-analysis (2L2 = 2% local/2 mm and 3G2 = 3% global/2 mm, 50% isodose) and by the percentage difference in median dose to the high dose volume (%∆HDVD 50 ).

RESULTS

Regarding dose rate dependency, dose linearity, and field size dependence, the agreement between EPID dosimetry and the two detector arrays was found to be within 1.0%. In the 2L2 γ-comparison with Octavius 4D dose distributions, the average γ-pass rate value was 92.2 ± 5.2%(1SD) and 94.1 ± 4.3%(1SD) for transit and non-transit EPID dosimetry, respectively. 3G2 γ-pass rate values were higher than 95% in 150/156 cases. %∆HDVD 50 values were within 2% in 134/156 cases and within 3% in 155/156 cases. With regard to the clinical classification of alerts, 97.5% of the treatments were equally classified by EPID dosimetry and Octavius 4D.

CONCLUSION

Transit and non-transit EPID dosimetry are equivalent in dosimetric terms to conventional detector arrays for patient specific QA. Non-transit 3D EPID dosimetry can be readily used for pre-treatment patient specific QA of IMRT and VMAT, eliminating the need of phantom positioning.

Practical application of Octavius® -4D: Characteristics and criticalities for IMRT and VMAT verification

Octavius^®‐4D is a very effective device in radiotherapy treatment quality assurance (QA), due to its simple set‐up and analysis package. However, even if it is widely used, its main characteristics and criticalities were only partially investigated. Taking start from its commissioning, the aim of this work was to study the main dependencies of the device response. The outcome dependence was studied comparing results by different delivery techniques [Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy, IMRT (n = 29) and RapidArc, RA (n = 15)], anatomical regions [15 head/neck, 19 pelvis and 10 pancreas] and linear accelerators [DHX (n = 14) and Trilogy (n = 30)]. Moreover, the agreement dependency on the section of the phantom was assessed. Plan evaluations obtained by 2D, 3D, and volumetric γ‐index (both local and global) were also compared. Generally, high dose gradient resulted critically managed by the assembly, with a smoother effect in RA technique. Worse agreements emerged in the 2D γ‐index vs those of 3D and volumetric (P < 0.001), that were instead statistically comparable in global metric (P > 0.300). Volumetric plan evaluation was coherent with the average of passing rates on the 3 phantom axes (r ≥ 0.9), but transversal section provided best agreements vs sagittal and coronal ones (P < 0.050). The three studied districts furnished comparable results (P > 0.050) while the two LINACs provided different agreements (P < 0.005). The study pointed out that the phantom transversal section better fits the planned dose distribution, so this should be accounted when a two‐dimensional evaluation is needed. Moreover, the major reliability of the 3D metric with respect to the 2D one, as it better agrees with the dosimetric evaluation on the whole volume, suggests that it should be preferred in a two‐dimensional evaluation. Better agreements, obtained with RA vs IMRT technique, confirm that Octavius^®‐4D is specifically conceived for rotational delivery. Lastly, the assembly resulted sensitive to different technology.

Verification of high-dose-rate brachytherapy treatment planning dose distribution using liquid-filled ionization chamber array

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the dosimetric performance of a liquid-filled ionization chamber array in high-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy dosimetry. A comparative study was carried out with air-filled ionization chamber array and EBT3 Gafchromic films to demonstrate its suitability in brachytherapy.

Material and methods

The PTW OCTAVIUS detector 1000 SRS (IA 2.5-5 mm) is a liquid-filled ionization chamber array of area 11 x 11 cm² and chamber spacing of 2.5-5 mm, whereas the PTW OCTAVIUS detector 729 (IA 10 mm) is an air vented ionization chamber array of area 27 x 27 cm² and chamber spacing of 10 mm. EBT3 films were exposed to doses up to a maximum of 6 Gy and evaluated using multi-channel analysis. The detectors were evaluated using test plans to mimic a HDR intracavitary gynecological treatment. The plan was calculated and delivered with the applicator plane placed 20 mm from the detector plane. The acquired measurements were compared to the treatment plan. In addition to point dose measurement, profile/isodose, gamma analysis, and uncertainty analysis were performed. Detector sensitivity was evaluated by introducing simulated errors to the test plans.

Results

The mean point dose differences between measured and calculated plans were 0.2% ± 1.6%, 1.8% ± 1.0%, and 1.5% ± 0.81% for film, IA 10 mm, and IA 2.5-5 mm, respectively. The average percentage of passed gamma (global/local) values using 3%/3 mm criteria was above 99.8% for all three detectors on the original plan. For IA 2.5-5 mm, local gamma criteria of 2%/1 mm with a passing rate of at least 95% was found to be sensitive when simulated positional errors of 1 mm was introduced.

Conclusion

The dosimetric properties of IA 2.5-5 mm showed the applicability of liquid-filled ionization chamber array as a potential QA device for HDR brachytherapy treatment planning systems.

Improvement of off-axis SABR plan verification results by using adapted dose reconstruction algorithms for the Octavius 4D system

PURPOSE

Stereotactic ablative body radiotherapy (SABR) for lung patients can be performed with volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) plans using off-axis target geometry to allow treatment in their CBCT verified position. For patient-specific quality assurance measurements using the PTW Octavius 4D phantom (PTW, Freiburg, Germany) (OCT4D) in conjunction with an Octavius 1000SRS array (OCT1000) (PTW, Freiburg, Germany), repositioning the phantom off-axis is required to ensure the measurement area coincides with the tumor. The aim of this work is to quantify delivery errors using an array repositioned off-axis and evaluate new software which incorporates corrections for off-axis phantom measurements.

METHODS

Dynamic conformal arcs and 25 lung SABR plans were created with the isocenter at the patient midline and the target volume off-axis. Measurements were acquired with an OCT4D phantom in conjunction with a 729 array (PTW, Freiburg, Germany) (OCT729) placed at isocenter. These plans were recalculated and delivered to both the OCT729 and OCT1000 arrays repositioned so that the high-dose region was at the center of the phantom. Comparisons were made using VeriSoft v7.0 (PTW, Freiburg, Germany) and the newly implemented version 7.1 with 2%/2 mm gamma criterion (10% threshold) and results correlated with off-axis distance to the tumor.

RESULTS

Average pass rates for VeriSoft v7.0 significantly reduced from 92.7 ± 2.4% to 84.9 ± 4.1% when the phantom was repositioned compared to the isocenter setup for the OCT729. The gamma pass rates significantly decreased the further the phantom was moved off-axis. Significantly higher pass rates were observed for the OCT1000 of 95.7 ± 3.6% and a significant decrease in gamma pass rate with off-axis phantom distance was again observed. In contrast, even with phantom repositioning, the pass rates for analysis with VeriSoft v7.1 were 93.7 ± 2.1% and 99.4 ± 1.1% for OCT729 and OCT1000, respectively. No significant difference in gamma pass rate was observed with off-axis phantom position irrespective of array type with the new software.

CONCLUSION

The errors in QA phantom measurements due to dose reconstruction at off-axis target geometry have been demonstrated for conformal arcs and clinical VMAT SABR plans. A novel software solution implemented by the vendor to allow accurate pass rates has been tested. This solution enables high-resolution arrays with small active detection areas to be used for quality assurance of SABR treatment plans in the off-axis treatment position.

Investigating ion recombination effects in a liquid-filled ionization chamber array used for IMRT QA measurements

PURPOSE

PTW's Octavius 1000 SRS array performs IMRT quality assurance (QA) measurements with liquid-filled ionization chambers (LICs) to allow closer detector spacing and higher resolution, compared to air-filled QA devices. However, reduced ion mobility in LICs relative to air leads to increased ion recombination effects and reduced collection efficiencies that are dependent on Linac pulse frequency and pulse dose. These pulse parameters are variable during an IMRT delivery, which affects QA results. In this study, (1) 1000 SRS collection efficiencies were measured as a function of pulse frequency and pulse dose, (2) two methods were developed to correct changes in collection efficiencies during IMRT QA measurements, and the effects of these corrections on QA pass rates were compared.

METHODS

To obtain collection efficiencies, the OCTAVIUS 1000 SRS was used to measure open fields of varying pulse frequency, pulse dose, and beam energy with results normalized to air-filled chamber measurements. Changes in ratios of 1000 SRS to chamber measured dose were attributed to changing collection efficiencies, which were then correlated to pulse parameters using regression analysis. The usefulness of the derived corrections was then evaluated using 6 MV and 10FFF SBRT RapidArc plans delivered to the OCTAVIUS 4D system using a TrueBeam (Varian Medical Systems) linear accelerator equipped with a high definition multileaf collimator. For the first correction, matlab software was developed that calculates pulse frequency and pulse dose for each detector, using measurement and DICOM RT Plan files. Pulse information is converted to collection efficiency, and measurements are corrected by multiplying detector dose by ratios of calibration to measured collection efficiencies. For the second correction the MU/min in the daily 1000 SRS calibration was chosen to match the average MU/min of the volumetric modulated arc therapy plan. Effects of the two corrections on QA results were examined by performing 3D gamma analysis comparing predicted to measured dose, with and without corrections.

RESULTS

Collection efficiencies correlated linearly to pulse dose, while correlations with pulse frequency were less defined, generally increasing as pulse frequency decreased. After complex matlab corrections, average 3D gamma pass rates improved by [0.07%,0.40%,1.17%] for 6 MV and [0.29%,1.40%,4.57%] for 10FFF using [3%/3 mm,2%/2 mm,1%/1 mm] criteria. Maximum changes in gamma pass rates were [0.43%,1.63%,3.05%] for 6 MV and [1.00%,4.80%,11.2%] for 10FFF using [3%/3 mm,2%/2 mm,1%/1 mm] criteria. On average, pass rates of simple daily calibration corrections were within 1% of complex matlab corrections.

CONCLUSIONS

OCTAVIUS 1000 SRS ion recombination effects have little effect on 6 MV measurements. However, the effect could potentially be clinically significant for higher pulse dose unflattened beams when using tighter gamma tolerances, especially when small aperture sizes are used, as is common for SRS/SBRT. In addition, ion recombination effects are strongly correlated to changing MU/min, therefore MU/min used in daily 1000 SRS calibrations should be matched to the expected average MU/min of the IMRT plan.

Volumetric-modulated Arc Therapy Lung Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy Dosimetric Quality Assurance: A Comparison between Radiochromic Film and Chamber Array

Introduction:

The aim of this work is to verify the use of radiochromic film in the quality assurance (QA) of volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) lung stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) plans and compare the results with those obtained using an ion chamber array.

Materials and Methods:

QA was performed for 14 plans using a two-dimensional-array seven29 and EBT3 film. Dose values per session ranged between 7.5 Gy and 18 Gy. The multichannel method was used to obtain a dose map for film.

Results:

The results obtained were compared with treatment planning system calculated profiles through gamma analysis. Passing criteria were 3%/3 mm, 2%/2 mm and 3%/1.5 mm with maximum and local dose (LD) normalization. Mean gamma passing rate (GPR) (percentage of points presenting a gamma function value of <1) was obtained and compared. Calibration curves were obtained for each color channel within the dose range 0–16 Gy. Mean GPR values for film were >98.9% for all criteria when normalizing per maximum dose. When using LD, normalization was >92.7%. GPR values for the array were lower for all criteria; this difference being statistically significant when normalizing at LD, reaching 12% for the 3%/1.5 mm criterion.

Conclusion:

Both detectors provide satisfactory results for the QA of plans for VMAT lung SBRT. The film provided greater mean GPR values, afforded greater spatial resolution and was more efficient overall.

Class solutions for SABR-VMAT for high-risk prostate cancer with and without elective nodal irradiation

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study is to find the optimal planning settings for prostate SABR-VMAT for high-risk prostate cancer patients irradiated to prostate only (PO) or prostate and pelvic lymph nodes (PPLN).

METHODS

For 10 patients, plans using 6MV flattened, flattening-filter-free (FFF) 6MV (6 F) and FFF 10MV (10 F) photon beams with full and partial arc arrangements were generated and compared. The prescribed dose was 40Gy to the prostate with 25Gy to the PLN in 5 fractions. Plans were then evaluated for PTV coverage, dose fall-off, and OAR doses. The number of monitor units and the treatment delivery times were also compared. Statistical differences were evaluated using a paired sample Wilcoxon signed rank test with a significance level of 0.05%.

RESULTS

A total of 150 plans were generated for this study. Acceptable PO plans were obtained using single arcs, while two arcs were necessary for PPLN. All plans were highly conformal (CI ≥1.3 and CN ≥0.90) with no significant differences in the PTV dose coverage. 6MV plans required significantly longer treatment time and had higher dose spillage compared to FFF plans. Superior plans were obtained using 10 F 300° partial arcs for PO with the lowest rectal dose, dose spillage and the shortest treatment times. For PPLN, 6 F and 10 F plans were equivalent.

CONCLUSIONS

SABR-VMAT with FFF photon beams offers a clear benefit with respect to shorter treatment delivery times and reduced dose spillage. Class solutions using a single 10 F 300° arc for PO and two 10 F or 6 F partial 300° arcs for PPLN are proposed.

Treatment of breast cancer with simultaneous integrated boost in hybrid plan technique : Influence of flattening filter-free beams

OBJECTIVE

The present study compares in silico treatment plans using hybrid plan technique during hypofractionated radiation of mammary carcinoma with simultaneous integrated boost (SIB). The influence of 6 MV photon radiation in flattening filter free (FFF) mode against the clinical standard flattening filter (FF) mode is to be examined.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

RT planning took place with FF and FFF radiation plans for 10 left-sided breast cancer patients. Hybrid plans were realised with two tangential IMRT fields and one VMAT field. The dose prescription was in line with the guidelines in the ARO-2010-01 study. The dosimetric verification took place with a manufacturer-independent measurement system.

RESULTS

Required dose prescriptions for the planning target volumes (PTV) were achieved for both groups. The average dose values of the ipsi- and contralateral lung and the heart did not differ significantly. The overall average incidental dose to the left anterior descending artery (LAD) of 8.24 ± 3.9 Gy in the FFF group and 9.05 ± 3.7 Gy in the FF group (p < 0.05) were found. The dosimetric verifications corresponded to the clinical requirements. FFF-based RT plans reduced the average treatment time by 17 s/fraction.

CONCLUSION

In comparison to the FF-based hybrid plan technique the FFF mode allows further reduction of the average LAD dose for comparable target volume coverage without adverse low-dose exposure of contralateral structures. The combination of hybrid plan technique and 6 MV photon radiation in the FFF mode is suitable for use with hypofractionated dose schemes. The increased dose rate allows a substantial reduction of treatment time and thus beneficial application of the deep inspiration breath hold technique.

Dosimetric characteristics of the novel 2D ionization chamber array OCTAVIUS Detector 1500

PURPOSE

The dosimetric properties of the OCTAVIUS Detector 1500 (OD1500) ionization chamber array (PTW-Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany) have been investigated. A comparative study was carried out with the OCTAVIUS Detector 729 and OCTAVIUS Detector 1000 SRS arrays.

METHODS

The OD1500 array is an air vented ionization chamber array with 1405 detectors in a 27 × 27 cm(2) measurement area arranged in a checkerboard pattern with a chamber-to-chamber distance of 10 mm in each row. A sampling step width of 5 mm can be achieved by merging two measurements shifted by 5 mm, thus fulfilling the Nyquist theorem for intensity modulated dose distributions. The stability, linearity, and dose per pulse dependence were investigated using a Semiflex 31013 chamber (PTW-Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany) as a reference detector. The effective depth of measurement was determined by measuring TPR curves with the array and a Roos chamber type 31004 (PTW-Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany). Comparative output factor measurements were performed with the array, the Semiflex 31010 ionization chamber and the Diode 60012 (both PTW-Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany). The energy dependence of the OD1500 was measured by comparing the array's readings to those of a Semiflex 31010 ionization chamber for varying mean photon energies at the depth of measurement, applying to the Semiflex chamber readings the correction factor kNR for nonreference conditions. The Gaussian lateral dose response function of a single array detector was determined by searching the convolution kernel suitable to convert the slit beam profiles measured with a Diode 60012 into those measured with the array's central chamber. An intensity modulated dose distribution measured with the array was verified by comparing a OD1500 measurement to TPS calculations and film measurements.

RESULTS

The stability and interchamber sensitivity variation of the OD1500 array were within ±0.2% and ±0.58%, respectively. Dose linearity was within 1% over the range from 5 to 1000 MU. The effective point of measurement of the OD1500 for dose measurements in RW3 phantoms was determined to be (8.7 ± 0.2) mm below its front surface. Output factors showed deviations below 1% for field sizes exceeding 4 × 4 cm(2). The dose per pulse dependence was smaller than 0.4% for doses per pulse from 0.2 to 1 mGy. The energy dependence of the array did not exceed ±0.9%. The parameter σ of the Gaussian lateral dose response function was determined as σ6MV = (2.07 ± 0.02) mm for 6 MV and σ15MV = (2.09 ± 0.02) mm for 15 MV. An IMRT verification showed passing rates well above 90% for a local 3 mm/3% criterion.

CONCLUSIONS

The OD1500 array's dosimetric properties showed the applicability of the array for clinical dosimetry with the possibility to increase the spatial sampling frequency and the coverage of a dose distribution with the sensitive areas of ionization chambers by merging two measurements.

Sensitivity of 3D Dose Verification to Multileaf Collimator Misalignments in Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy of Spinal Tumor

PURPOSE

This study aimed to detect the sensitivity of Delt 4 on ordinary field multileaf collimator misalignments, system misalignments, random misalignments, and misalignments caused by gravity of the multileaf collimator in stereotactic body radiation therapy.

METHODS

(1) Two field sizes, including 2.00 cm (X) × 6.00 cm (Y) and 7.00 cm (X) × 6.00 cm (Y), were set. The leaves of X1 and X2 in the multileaf collimator were simultaneously opened. (2) Three cases of stereotactic body radiation therapy of spinal tumor were used. The dose of the planning target volume was 1800 cGy with 3 fractions. The 4 types to be simulated included (1) the leaves of X1 and X2 in the multileaf collimator were simultaneously opened, (2) only X1 of the multileaf collimator and the unilateral leaf were opened, (3) the leaves of X1 and X2 in the multileaf collimator were randomly opened, and (4) gravity effect was simulated. The leaves of X1 and X2 in the multileaf collimator shifted to the same direction. The difference between the corresponding 3-dimensional dose distribution measured by Delt 4 and the dose distribution in the original plan made in the treatment planning system was analyzed with γ index criteria of 3.0 mm/3.0%, 2.5 mm/2.5%, 2.0 mm/2.0%, 2.5 mm/1.5%, and 1.0 mm/1.0%.

RESULTS

(1) In the field size of 2.00 cm (X) × 6.00 cm (Y), the γ pass rate of the original was 100% with 2.5 mm/2.5% as the statistical standard. The pass rate decreased to 95.9% and 89.4% when the X1 and X2 directions of the multileaf collimator were opened within 0.3 and 0.5 mm, respectively. In the field size of 7.00 (X) cm × 6.00 (Y) cm with 1.5 mm/1.5% as the statistical standard, the pass rate of the original was 96.5%. After X1 and X2 of the multileaf collimator were opened within 0.3 mm, the pass rate decreased to lower than 95%. The pass rate was higher than 90% within the 3 mm opening. (2) For spinal tumor, the change in the planning target volume V₁₈ under various modes calculated using treatment planning system was within 1%. However, the maximum dose deviation of the spinal cord was high. In the spinal cord with a gravity of -0.25 mm, the maximum dose deviation minimally changed and increased by 6.8% than that of the original. In the largest opening of 1.00 mm, the deviation increased by 47.7% than that of the original. Moreover, the pass rate of the original determined through Delt 4 was 100% with 3 mm/3% as the statistical standard. The pass rate was 97.5% in the 0.25 mm opening and higher than 95% in the 0.5 mm opening A, 0.25 mm opening A, whole gravity series, and 0.20 mm random opening. Moreover, the pass rate was higher than 90% with 2.0 mm/2.0% as the statistical standard in the original and in the 0.25 mm gravity. The difference in the pass rates was not statistically significant among the -0.25 mm gravity, 0.25 mm opening A, 0.20 mm random opening, and original as calculated using SPSS 11.0 software with P > .05.

CONCLUSIONS

Different analysis standards of Delt 4 were analyzed in different field sizes to improve the detection sensitivity of the multileaf collimator position on the basis of 90% throughout rate. In stereotactic body radiation therapy of spinal tumor, the 2.0 mm/2.0% standard can reveal the dosimetric differences caused by the minor multileaf collimator position compared with the 3.0 mm/3.0% statistical standard. However, some position derivations of the misalignments that caused high dose amount to the spinal cord cannot be detected. However, some misalignments were not detected when a large number of multileaf collimator were administered into the spinal cord.

Statistical analysis on 2D array of ion chamber performance

Purpose

In this work, dosimetric properties of the PTW Octavius detector in and out of the irradiation field have been evaluated. The 2D array of ion chambers has the potential to simplify the linear accelerator QA and pre-treatment verification.

Materials and methods

The evaluation was performed using customised written codes in Matlab and SPSS software for statistical analysis.

Results

Experiments indicate that the reproducibility and stability of the measurements were excellent; the detector showed the same signal with a maximum deviation of <0·5% in the short and long term. Comparisons of the ion chamber with the detector showed the same results with a maximum deviation of ~0·1%. As the detector response is linear with the dose, it can be used for the measurement at regions of high-dose gradient effectively. Logarithmic regression y=0·127 ln(x)+0·729 for detector signal and field size changes yielded a coefficient of determination of 0·997. The dose value decreases with increase in source-to-surface distance, which was modelled using a binomial regression with a coefficient of determination of 0·998 that agrees with the ionisation chamber measurement within 1%.

Conclusion

On the basis of the measurements and comparisons performed, this system is a reliable and accurate dosimeter for quality assurance in radiotherapy.

Correlation of phantom-based and log file patient-specific QA with complexity scores for VMAT

The motivation for this study was to reduce physics workload relating to patient‐specific quality assurance (QA). VMAT plan delivery accuracy was determined from analysis of pre‐ and on‐treatment trajectory log files and phantom‐based ionization chamber array measurements. The correlation in this combination of measurements for patient‐specific QA was investigated. The relationship between delivery errors and plan complexity was investigated as a potential method to further reduce patient‐specific QA workload. Thirty VMAT plans from three treatment sites — prostate only, prostate and pelvic node (PPN), and head and neck (H&N) — were retrospectively analyzed in this work. The 2D fluence delivery reconstructed from pretreatment and on‐treatment trajectory log files was compared with the planned fluence using gamma analysis. Pretreatment dose delivery verification was also carried out using gamma analysis of ionization chamber array measurements compared with calculated doses. Pearson correlations were used to explore any relationship between trajectory log file (pretreatment and on‐treatment) and ionization chamber array gamma results (pretreatment). Plan complexity was assessed using the MU/ arc and the modulation complexity score (MCS), with Pearson correlations used to examine any relationships between complexity metrics and plan delivery accuracy. Trajectory log files were also used to further explore the accuracy of MLC and gantry positions. Pretreatment 1%/1 mm gamma passing rates for trajectory log file analysis were 99.1% (98.7%–99.2%), 99.3% (99.1%–99.5%), and 98.4% (97.3%–98.8%) (median (IQR)) for prostate, PPN, and H&N, respectively, and were significantly correlated to on‐treatment trajectory log file gamma results (R=0.989,p<0.001). Pretreatment ionization chamber array (2%/2 mm) gamma results were also significantly correlated with on‐treatment trajectory log file gamma results (R=0.623,p<0.001). Furthermore, all gamma results displayed a significant correlation with MCS (R>0.57,p<0.001), but not with MU/arc. Average MLC position and gantry angle errors were 0.001±0.002mm and 0.025°±0.008° over all treatment sites and were not found to affect delivery accuracy. However, variability in MLC speed was found to be directly related to MLC position accuracy. The accuracy of VMAT plan delivery assessed using pretreatment trajectory log file fluence delivery and ionization chamber array measurements were strongly correlated with on‐treatment trajectory log file fluence delivery. The strong correlation between trajectory log file and phantom‐based gamma results demonstrates potential to reduce our current patient‐specific QA. Additionally, insight into MLC and gantry position accuracy through trajectory log file analysis and the strong correlation between gamma analysis results and the MCS could also provide further methodologies to both optimize the VMAT planning and QA process.

PACS number: 87.53.Bn, 87.55.Kh, 87.55.Qr

A study on the correlation between plan complexity and gamma index analysis in patient specific quality assurance of volumetric modulated arc therapy

AIM

To evaluate the new Octavius 4D system for patient specific quality assurance and to study the correlation between plan complexity and gamma index analysis in patient specific quality assurance of VMAT using the Octavius 4D system.

BACKGROUND

McNiven (2010) proposed a study to evaluate the utility of a complexity metric, the Modulation Complexity Score, to evaluate the relationship of the metric with deliverability in IMRT.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Evaluation of the Octavius 4D system was carried out by gamma evaluation of user defined MLC created patterns and AAPM TG 119 benchmark plans. The relationship between plan complexity expressed as Modulation Complexity Score (MCS) and the gamma index analysis was established by a planar and volumetric gamma analysis of 106 clinically approved VMAT patient plans of different sites.

RESULTS

Average volumetric 3D global gamma evaluation (3 mm/3%) results for the evaluation plans was 97.41% for 6 MV X-rays and 98.30% for 15 MV X-rays. Average MCS values for the head and neck, pelvic and thoracic plans were 0.2224, 0.3615 and 0.1874. Average volumetric 3D global gamma analysis (3 mm/3%) results for the head and neck, pelvic and thoracic VMAT plans were 95.45%, 97.51% and 96.98%, respectively. Out of 90 correlation analyses between the MCS and gamma passing rate, only 3 had the r value greater than 0.5.

CONCLUSIONS

The Octavius 4D system is a suitable device for patient specific pretreatment QA. Global and local gamma analysis results showed a weak correlation with the MCS.

Evaluation of semiempirical VMAT dose reconstruction on a patient dataset based on biplanar diode array measurements

We report the results of a preclinical evaluation of recently introduced commercial tools for 3D patient IMRT/VMAT dose reconstruction, the Delta4 Anatomy calculation algorithm. Based on the same initial measurement, volumetric dose can be reconstructed in two ways. Three-dimensional dose on the Delta4 phantom can be obtained by renormalizing the planned dose distribution by the measurement values (D4 Interpolation). Alternatively, incident fluence can be approximated from the phantom measurement and used for volumetric dose calculation on an arbitrary (patient) dataset with a pencil beam algorithm (Delta4 PB). The primary basis for comparison was 3D dose obtained by previously validated measurement-guided planned dose perturbation method (ACPDP), based on the ArcCHECK dosimeter with 3DVH software. For five clinical VMAT plans, D4 Interpolation agreed well with ACPDP on a homogeneous cylindrical phantom according to gamma analysis with local dose-error normalization. The average agreement rates were 98.2% ± 1.3% (1 SD), (range 97.0%-100%) and 92.8% ± 3.9% (89.5%-99.2%), for the 3%/3 mm and 2%/2 mm criteria, respectively. On a similar geometric phantom, D4 PB demonstrated substantially lower agreement rates with ACPDP: 88.6% ± 6.8% (81.2%-96.1%) and 72.4% ± 8.4% (62.1%-81.1%), for 3%/3 mm and 2%/2 mm, respectively. The average agreement rates on the heterogeneous patients' CT datasets are lower yet: 81.2% ± 8.6% (70.4%-90.4%) and 64.6% ± 8.4% (56.5%-74.7%), respectively, for the same two criteria sets. For both threshold combinations, matched analysis of variance (ANOVA) multiple comparisons showed statistically significant differences in mean agreement rates (p < 0.05) for D4 Interpolation versus ACPDP on one hand, and D4 PB versus ACPDP on either cylindrical or patient dataset on the other hand. Based on the favorable D4 Interpolation results for VMAT plans, the resolution of the reconstruction method rather than hardware design is likely to be responsible for D4 PB limitations.

Cross-validation of two commercial methods for volumetric high-resolution dose reconstruction on a phantom for non-coplanar VMAT beams

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Delta(4) (ScandiDos AB, Uppsala, Sweden) and ArcCHECK with 3DVH software (Sun Nuclear Corp., Melbourne, FL, USA) are commercial quasi-three-dimensional diode dosimetry arrays capable of volumetric measurement-guided dose reconstruction. A method to reconstruct dose for non-coplanar VMAT beams with 3DVH is described. The Delta(4) 3D dose reconstruction on its own phantom for VMAT delivery has not been thoroughly evaluated previously, and we do so by comparison with 3DVH.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Reconstructed volumetric doses for VMAT plans delivered with different table angles were compared between the Delta(4) and 3DVH using gamma analysis.

RESULTS

The average γ (2% local dose-error normalization/2mm) passing rate comparing the directly measured Delta(4) diode dose with 3DVH was 98.2 ± 1.6% (1SD). The average passing rate for the full volumetric comparison of the reconstructed doses on a homogeneous cylindrical phantom was 95.6 ± 1.5%. No dependence on the table angle was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Modified 3DVH algorithm is capable of 3D VMAT dose reconstruction on an arbitrary volume for the full range of table angles. Our comparison results between different dosimeters make a compelling case for the use of electronic arrays with high-resolution 3D dose reconstruction as primary means of evaluating spatial dose distributions during IMRT/VMAT verification.