Integrating Organ Motion and Setup Uncertainty into Optimization of Modulated Electron Beam Treatment of Breast Cancer
Abstract
This document describes the research accomplishments of the Department of Defense funded research to develop, implement, and evaluate models of organ motion and setup uncertainty for dose calculation of modulated electron radiotherapy (MERT) treatment of the breast. The premise is that MERT treatments will deliver a more conformal dose to the breast while minimizing the dose to normal tissues over conventional photon techniques. We have completed the following tasks: (1) developed theoretical models of organ motion and setup uncertainty based on published data, (2) implemented those models into a Monte Carlo dose calculation code, (3) validated our Monte Carlo implementation, and (4) evaluated the efficacy of MERT compared to both conventional photon breast treatment and intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) for breast treatment. In the course of this research, we have found that MERT treatments give a lower peak lung and heart dose when compared to conventional treatments and organ motion/setup uncertainty have the effect of reducing hot spots and mean dose in the target while spreading the low dose components over a slightly larger anatomical area. This project and the other related DOD funded research have allowed the development of MERT as new treatment paradigm for breast cancer.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADA420164
Entities
People
- Todd A. Pawlicki
Organizations
- Stanford University