title: A constrained least-squares optimization method for external beam radiation therapy treatment planning.
abstract: A method has been developed to optimize the selection of beam weights for external beam radiation therapy treatment planning. This method uses a matrix transformation method to achieve a least-squares fit to doses at preselected points in a target volume. This method is more general than the conventional least-squares method in that it allows one to incorporate as constraints maximum allowable doses delivered to critical organs, as well as the requirement that all beam weights be non-negative. A computer algorithm DOSEOPT has been written which takes a matrix of doses to various points from beams whose field sizes and orientations have been predetermined, and performs the constrained least-squares fit to desired doses in the target volume and maximum doses to critical organs. Implementation of this algorithm and its application to several cases are discussed.
mesh_terms: D004938:Esophageal Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy; D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D010347:Patient Care Planning / Q000379:methods*; D010386:Pelvic Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy; D011879:Radiotherapy Dosage; D012984:Software; D014067:Tonsillar Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy