A consensus-based, process commissioning template for high-dose-rate gynecologic treatments.

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Radiation Oncology

Background:

• Commissioning high-dose-rate (HDR) gynecologic (GYN) treatment equipment lacks standardized, practical guidance.
• This gap hinders consistent and safe implementation of HDR GYN therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a vendor-neutral, consensus-based commissioning template for HDR GYN equipment.
• The goal is to enhance standardization and improve the commissioning process.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive list of commissioning procedures and tests was created.
• External experts reviewed, modified, and ranked procedures based on failure mode mitigation and importance.

Main Results:

• The final template includes 67 procedures and tests.
• "Treatment process" and "staff training" sections were identified as key for mitigating failure modes.
• A discrepancy was noted between perceived importance and failure mode mitigation effectiveness.

Conclusions:

• The developed template offers a standardized approach to HDR GYN equipment commissioning.
• Increased emphasis on "treatment process" and "staff training" is recommended for improved safety and efficacy.