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Title: The stability of mechanical calibration for a kV cone beam computed tomography system integrated with linear accelerator

Journal Article · · Medical Physics
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1118/1.2143141· OSTI ID:20774966
; ;  [1]
  1. Princess Margaret Hospital and University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario M5G 2M9 (Canada)

The geometric accuracy and precision of an image-guided treatment system were assessed. Image guidance is performed using an x-ray volume imaging (XVI) system integrated with a linear accelerator and treatment planning system. Using an amorphous silicon detector and x-ray tube, volumetric computed tomography images are reconstructed from kilovoltage radiographs by filtered backprojection. Image fusion and assessment of geometric targeting are supported by the treatment planning system. To assess the limiting accuracy and precision of image-guided treatment delivery, a rigid spherical target embedded in an opaque phantom was subjected to 21 treatment sessions over a three-month period. For each session, a volumetric data set was acquired and loaded directly into an active treatment planning session. Image fusion was used to ascertain the couch correction required to position the target at the prescribed iso-center. Corrections were validated independently using megavoltage electronic portal imaging to record the target position with respect to symmetric treatment beam apertures. An initial calibration cycle followed by repeated image-guidance sessions demonstrated the XVI system could be used to relocate an unambiguous object to within less than 1 mm of the prescribed location. Treatment could then proceed within the mechanical accuracy and precision of the delivery system. The calibration procedure maintained excellent spatial resolution and delivery precision over the duration of this study, while the linear accelerator was in routine clinical use. Based on these results, the mechanical accuracy and precision of the system are ideal for supporting high-precision localization and treatment of soft-tissue targets.

OSTI ID:
20774966
Journal Information:
Medical Physics, Vol. 33, Issue 1; Other Information: DOI: 10.1118/1.2143141; (c) 2006 American Association of Physicists in Medicine; Country of input: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA); ISSN 0094-2405
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English