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The delivery of intensity modulated radiotherapy to the breast using multiple static fields
P M Evans1, E M Donovan, M Partridge
1Joint Department of Physics, Institute of Cancer Research and Royal Marsden NHS Trust, Downs Road, Surrey, SM2 5PT, Sutton, UK.
Summary
A new intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) method using multiple static fields (MSFs) significantly reduces high radiation doses in breast cancer treatment. This advanced technique improves outcomes and may lessen long-term side effects.
Area of Science:
- Radiation Oncology
- Medical Physics
Background:
- Intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) is crucial for precise cancer treatment.
- Tangential breast fields present unique challenges in dose delivery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a novel IMRT method for tangential breast fields using a multileaf collimator (MLC).
- The goal is to minimize the irradiated breast volume exceeding 105% of the prescribed dose.
Main Methods:
- Utilized an electronic portal imaging device (EPID) for breast thickness mapping.
- Designed IMRT deliveries with universally-wedged beams and shaped low-dose irradiations.
- Compared dosimetric and planning quality assurance (QA) with standard wedged and compensated techniques.
Main Results:
- The MSF technique demonstrated superiority over standard treatment (P=0.002).
- Both IMRT methods substantially reduced the high-dose breast volume from 12.0% to approximately 2.8%.
Conclusions:
- The MSF method effectively reduces high-dose volumes in tangential breast irradiation.
- This reduction may positively impact long-term side effects, including cosmetic outcomes.
