A free program for calculating EUD-based NTCP and TCP in external beam radiotherapy.

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Radiation Oncology
• Computational Biology

Background:

• Accurate prediction of Normal Tissue Complication Probability (NTCP) and Tumor Control Probability (TCP) is crucial in radiation oncology.
• Equivalent Uniform Dose (EUD)-based models offer a simplified approach to assess treatment plan outcomes.
• Niemierko's models provide a framework for these EUD-based calculations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a user-friendly research tool for calculating NTCP and TCP.
• To illustrate the practical implementation of EUD-based NTCP and TCP models.
• To facilitate research in radiation treatment plan optimization.

Main Methods:

• A high-level computing language was employed to implement Niemierko's EUD-based NTCP and TCP mathematical models.
• Treatment planning software requirements were defined to ensure compatibility and usability.
• The developed computer code is presented with clear explanations.

Main Results:

• The study presents functional computer code for calculating NTCP and TCP.
• Six illustrative examples are provided to aid in code implementation and troubleshooting.
• A table of model parameters, referencing Emami data, is included for practical application.

Conclusions:

• The developed tool simplifies the calculation of NTCP and TCP, aiding researchers.
• Implementation of EUD-based models is demonstrated, enhancing understanding and application.
• This research tool supports the optimization of radiation treatment plans.