title: Improved dose homogeneity in the head and neck using computer controlled radiation therapy.
abstract: Computer-controlled radiation therapy techniques are demonstrated which improve dose homogeneity throughout the nasopharynx when compared to conventional treatment techniques. The typical approach using a heavily weighted anterior field and opposed wedged lateral fields results in a dose gradient from 95% to 110% or greater. All three of the computer-controlled techniques investigated improved the dose uniformity to a range from 95% to 105% or less. Multiple overlapping fields are used to compensate for patient anatomy and treatment beam characteristics. Treatment planning and monitor unit calculations are quite time-consuming at this stage of development. Actual treatment time is not unreasonably long and can be improved in future releases of the therapy machine control software.
authors: Department of Radiation Therapy, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston 77550.
authors: R G
authors: RG
authors: Lane
authors: M D
authors: MD
authors: Loyd
authors: C H
authors: CH
authors: Chow
authors: E
authors: E
authors: Ekwelundu
authors: I I
authors: II
authors: Rosen
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D008961:Models, Structural; D009303:Nasopharyngeal Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D011879:Radiotherapy Dosage; D011881:Radiotherapy, Computer-Assisted