Helical tomotherapy: image-guided and adaptive radiotherapy.

Area of Science:

• Radiation Oncology
• Medical Imaging
• Radiotherapy Technology

Background:

• Helical tomotherapy is an advanced system for delivering intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT).
• It is utilized for treating a diverse range of anatomical locations.
• A key feature is its integrated megavoltage-based computed tomography (MVCT) imaging capability for image guidance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the technical and clinical experiences with megavoltage-based CT (MVCT) imaging in helical tomotherapy.
• To discuss investigations into MVCT image quality, radiation dose, and its application in dose calculation.
• To summarize the clinical utility and practical insights gained from routine MVCT use.

Main Methods:

• Review of technical investigations concerning MVCT image quality and dose.
• Analysis of studies on the use of MVCT images for radiation dose calculation.
• Compilation of clinical experiences and outcomes from routine MVCT-guided helical tomotherapy treatments.

Main Results:

• MVCT imaging has been extensively investigated for its technical aspects, including image quality and dose.
• The utility of MVCT in dose calculation for helical tomotherapy has been explored.
• Significant clinical experience has been accumulated through the routine application of MVCT imaging.

Conclusions:

• MVCT imaging is an integral component of helical tomotherapy systems, enhancing image guidance.
• Ongoing technical and clinical research continues to refine the use of MVCT in radiotherapy.
• The accumulated clinical experience highlights the practical value and effectiveness of MVCT in patient treatment.