title: Monitor unit calculations using a 3D computerised treatment planning system: verification in an anthropomorphic phantom.
abstract: The aim of this work was to assess the monitor unit calculation accuracy of a new 3D computer planning system in a volume containing significant lung heterogeneity. An anthropomorphic phantom drilled to accommodate a cylindrical ionisation chamber was used for measurements. Results were also compared to an older 2D system and a manual calculation method. Only a slight improvement was achieved with the new system and an energy dependence was evident. This type of test is recommended before implementing a new 3D planning system.
authors.affiliation: Department Radiation Oncology, Mater Hospital, Newcastle, Australia. mdsjho@cc.newcastle.edu.au
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Howlett
authors.forename: T
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Kron
authors.forename: N X
authors.initials: NX
authors.lastname: Ku
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Hamilton
mesh_terms: D000465:Algorithms; D004784:Environmental Monitoring / Q000379:methods; D019047:Phantoms, Imaging; D011879:Radiotherapy Dosage; D011880:Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000592:standards; D012542:Scattering, Radiation