| ORIGINAL ARTICLE |
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| Year : 2010 | Volume
: 35
| Issue : 2 | Page : 104-112 |
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Performance evaluation of an algorithm for fast optimization of beam weights in anatomy-based intensity modulated radiotherapy
Vaitheeswaran Ranganathan1, VK Sathiya Narayanan2, Janhavi R Bhangle2, Kamlesh K Gupta2, Sumit Basu2, Vikram Maiya2, Jolly Joseph2, Amit Nirhali2
1 Healthcare Sector, Siemens Ltd, 403A, Senapati Bapat Road, Pune- 411 016, India
2 Department of Radiation Oncology, Ruby Hall Clinic, 40-Sasoon Road, Pune-411 001, India
Correspondence Address:
Vaitheeswaran Ranganathan
Healthcare Sector, Siemens Ltd, 403A, ICC Trade Tower, Tower B, Senapati Bapat Road, Pune- 411016
India
 Source of Support: None, Conflict of Interest: None  | Check |
DOI: 10.4103/0971-6203.62203
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This study aims to evaluate the performance of a new algorithm for optimization of beam weights in anatomy-based intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT). The algorithm uses a numerical technique called Gaussian-Elimination that derives the optimum beam weights in an exact or non-iterative way. The distinct feature of the algorithm is that it takes only fraction of a second to optimize the beam weights, irrespective of the complexity of the given case. The algorithm has been implemented using MATLAB with a Graphical User Interface (GUI) option for convenient specification of dose constraints and penalties to different structures. We have tested the numerical and clinical capabilities of the proposed algorithm in several patient cases in comparison with KonRad® inverse planning system. The comparative analysis shows that the algorithm can generate anatomy-based IMRT plans with about 50% reduction in number of MUs and 60% reduction in number of apertures, while producing dose distribution comparable to that of beamlet-based IMRT plans. Hence, it is clearly evident from the study that the proposed algorithm can be effectively used for clinical applications. |
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