The objective evaluation of alternative treatment plans. III: The quantitative analysis of dose volume histograms

The computer program OSCAR evaluates dose-volume histograms in a consistent way for use in 3-dimensional treatment planning. Based on a dose prescription specified by a radiation oncologist, the technique provides a quantitative and easily understood visual analysis of a proposed dose distribution. Rapid, reliable, and consistent choices can be made between alternative treatment plans, and if necessary the results of OSCAR calculations can be used to guide the design of a plan that will be closer to the required prescription. The method is well suited to use in the definition of treatment protocols. The use of OSCAR is demonstrated by applying it to the evaluation of alternative volumetric treatment plans for ca lung. The results demonstrate the importance of using corrections for inhomogeneous tissue density in the calculation of 3-dimensional dose distributions.