Adding a Small Field of View for Increased Resolution in Contouring: An Effective and Quick Method

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Radiation Oncology
• Radiology

Background:

• Accurate contouring of complex anatomy in head and neck cancer treatment requires high image resolution.
• Diagnostic radiologists use small fields of view in computed tomography (CT) neck scans for optimal image resolution.
• Radiation treatment planning necessitates a large field of view for comprehensive external contouring and accurate dose calculation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a straightforward method for acquiring both small and large fields of view during computed tomography (CT) simulation for head and neck cancer planning.

Main Methods:

• A simple technique was developed to obtain dual field of view (FOV) CT data during a single simulation session.
• This method addresses the conflicting requirements of high resolution (small FOV) and comprehensive coverage (large FOV) in radiation therapy planning.

Main Results:

• The proposed method allows for the acquisition of both high-resolution images for detailed anatomical contouring and a wide field of view for complete patient coverage.
• This dual-FOV approach optimizes the CT simulation process for head and neck radiation therapy.

Conclusions:

• The presented method offers a practical solution to enhance image resolution and field of view in CT simulations for head and neck cancer.
• This technique can improve the accuracy and efficiency of radiation treatment planning by providing optimal imaging data.