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Next generation optical surface sensing for real-time measurement in radiotherapy
James M Parkhurst1, Gareth J Price, Phil J Sharrock
1North Western Medical Physics at The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester M20 4BX, UK. james.parkhurst@physics.cr.man.ac.uk
Summary
A new Fourier profilometry system offers real-time, high-resolution surface measurement for radiation therapy. This advanced optical metrology improves tumor localization and patient motion tracking during treatment.
Area of Science:
- Medical Physics
- Optical Engineering
- Radiotherapy Technology
Background:
- Intensive radiotherapy techniques like hypo-fractionation and proton beam therapy necessitate precise tumor localization and surface tracking.
- Existing optical metrology systems lack the high temporal and spatial resolution for comprehensive whole-surface topology measurement.
- Accurate patient monitoring is crucial for effective and safe radiation delivery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To implement and evaluate a novel Fourier profilometry system for high-resolution, real-time patient surface measurement in radiotherapy.
- To enhance the accuracy and speed of optical metrology for improved tumor target volume localization and motion tracking.
- To provide dynamic visualization and feedback for radiotherapy staff and patients.
Main Methods:
- Development of a Fourier profilometry system with an algorithm comprising four processing stages, including spatial phase determination.
- Optimization of the system for enhanced performance, achieving high temporal (23 frames per second) and spatial resolution (512 × 512 points per frame).
- Comparison of the system's data density, accuracy, and performance against commercially available clinical systems.
Main Results:
- The optimized Fourier profilometry system achieves an order of magnitude improvement in data density, accuracy, and performance over existing clinical systems.
- The system demonstrates the capability for genuine real-time measurement of the patient's surface during setup and radiation delivery.
- High-speed processing allows for smooth dynamic visualizations of motion across the entire body surface.
Conclusions:
- The developed Fourier profilometry system provides unprecedented real-time surface topology measurement for radiotherapy.
- This technology significantly enhances the ability to monitor patient position and motion, crucial for advanced treatment modalities.
- The system offers improved visualization and feedback, potentially leading to more precise and safer radiation treatments.
