Virtual simulation in the clinical setting: some practical considerations.
Virtual simulation departs from normal practice by replacing conventional treatment simulation with 3-dimensional image data and computer software. Implementation of virtual simulation requires the ability to transfer the planned treatment geometry from the computer to the treatment room in a way which is accurate, reproducible, and efficient enough for routine use. We have separated this process into: (a) immobilization of the patient; (b) establishment and alignment of a practical coordinate system for the patient/couch system; and (c) setup of the patient/couch been addressed by the use of hemi- or full-body foam casts, the second by use of an alignment jig on the treatment couch, and the third with the aid of a patient coordinate system referenced to easily located landmarks. Phantom studies and clinical practice have shown these techniques to be practical and effective within reasonable clinical bounds.
Department of Radiation Oncology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill 27599-7512.
G W
GW
Sherouse
J D
JD
Bourland
K
K
Reynolds
H L
HL
McMurry
T P
TP
Mitchell
E L
EL
Chaney
D003198:Computer Simulation; D006801:Humans; D011880:Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted