Clinical results of computerized tomography-based simulation with laser patient marking

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Radiation Oncology
• Radiotherapy Technology

Background:

• Conventional simulation methods for radiotherapy planning can be time-consuming and may lack precision.
• Advancements in imaging technology offer potential for improved accuracy and efficiency in treatment planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To clinically evaluate the accuracy of a patient treatment portal marking device integrated with computerized tomography (CT) simulation.
• To assess the feasibility and efficiency of CT-based simulation for radiation therapy portal localization.

Main Methods:

• A CT-based simulator was developed using a commercial CT scanner, visualization software, and a computer-controlled laser device.
• The system was used to transfer radiation therapy setup information from the CT simulator to patients for skin marking.
• Clinical accuracy was assessed in 25 prospectively analyzed patients.

Main Results:

• The CT simulation process averaged 62 minutes, often allowing portal design and patient marking in a single session.
• Mechanical accuracy of the system was within +/- 1mm, with portal projection accuracy in clinical cases exceeding +/- 1.2 mm.
• Operating costs were found to be comparable to conventional simulation methods.

Conclusions:

• Computed tomography simulation, when combined with a suitable patient marking system and digitally reconstructed radiographs, provides accurate clinical results.
• CT simulation is a viable and accurate substitute for conventional simulation, with equivalent personnel time requirements.