Validation of a rapid algorithm for repeated intensity modulated radiation therapy dose calculations

As adaptive radiotherapy workflows and deep learning model training rise in popularity, the need for repeated applications of a rapid dose calculation algorithm increases. In this work we evaluate the feasibility of a simple algorithm that can calculate dose directly from MLC positions in near real-time. Given the necessary machine parameters, the intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) doses are calculated and can be used in optimization, deep learning model training, or other cases where fast repeated segment dose calculations are needed. The algorithm uses normalized beamlets to modify a pre-calculated patient specific open field into any MLC segment shape. This algorithm was validated on 91 prostate IMRT plans as well as 20 lung IMRT plans generated for the Elekta Unity MR-Linac. IMRT plans calculated using the proposed method were found to match reference Monte Carlo calculated dose within98.02±0.84%and96.57±2.41%for prostate and lung patients respectively with a 3%/2 mm gamma criterion. After the patient-specific open field calculation, the algorithm can calculate the dose of a 9-field IMRT plan in 1.016 ± 0.284 s for a single patient or 0.264 ms per patient for a parallelized batch of 24 patients relevant for deep learning training. The presented algorithm demonstrates an alternative rapid IMRT dose calculator that does not rely on training a deep learning model while still being competitive in terms of speed and accuracy making it a compelling choice in cases where repetitive dose calculation is desired.