Standard linear plans in single channel high dose rate brachytherapy: a dosimetric analysis

The use of standard linear plans is proposed for single channel intraluminal High Dose Rate brachytherapy. This technique employs the optimized dwell times derived from a straight line within a curved geometry. Such standardization of the planning procedure ensures expedient delivery of treatment. The 3-D dose distribution resulting from the use of standard linear plans within various curved geometries is investigated. In this study a comparison is made between the dose delivered to the perimeter of the target volume from both standard linear plans and individually optimized plans. Our results demonstrate that the use of a standard linear plan is acceptable in curved geometries, given the current practice of dose and volume specification for high dose rate intraluminal brachytherapy.