Software-based evaluation of a class solution for prostate IMRT planning.

AIM: To use plan analysis software to evaluate a class solution for prostate intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) planning.

BACKGROUND: Class solutions for radiotherapy planning are increasingly being considered for streamlining planning. Plan analysis software provides an objective approach to evaluating radiotherapy plans.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three iterations of a class solution for prostate IMRT planning (T1, T2 and T final ) were compared to the clinical plan of 74 prostate patients using radiotherapy plan analysis software (Plan IQ™, Sun Nuclear Corporation). A set of institution-specific plan quality metrics (scores) were established, based on best practice guidelines.

RESULTS: For CTV coverage, T final was not significantly different to the clinical plan. With the exception of 95% PTV coverage, T final metrics were significantly better than the clinical plan for PTV coverage. In the scoring analysis, mean dose, 95% and 107% isodose coverage scores were similar for all the templates and clinical plan. 100% coverage of the CTV clinical plan was similar to T final but scored higher than T1 and T2. There were no significant differences between T final and the clinical plan for the metrics and scores associated with organs at risk. The total plan score was similar for T final and the clinical plan, although the scores for volume receiving total dose outside the PTV were higher for T final than for the clinical plan ( P  < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS: The radiotherapy plan analysis software was useful for evaluating a class solution for prostate IMRT planning and provided evidence that the class solution produced clinically acceptable plans for these patients.