Uniformity in the analysis of head and neck image guided radiotherapy across multiple departments

• Published in: Journal of medical radiation sciences 2011-06, Vol.58 (2), p.5-9
• Main Authors: Devereux, B, Sisson, T, Fenton, P, Bradford, C, Ambler, A, Plank, A, Middleton, M
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: electronic portal imaging; head and neck stabilisation; image guided radiotherapy; kilovoltage imaging; megavoltage imaging; Radiation therapy; Seniority; Therapists; Vertebrae
• ISSN: 0033-8273; 2051-3895; 2051-3909
• DOI: 10.1002/j.2051-3909.2011.tb00143.x

Purpose: Head and Neck Image Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT) is of vital importance particularly with the advent of Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT). The responsibility of IGRT rests with the treating radiation therapy team, therefore it is essential that they undertake IGRT in a uniform manner. This study represents an assessment of head and neck IGRT analysis across multiple radiation oncology departments, inclusive of radiation therapist seniority, image modality and anatomical variation within the treatment volume. Methods: Site visits were undertaken at three radiation oncology departments. At each site kV and MV image datasets were analysed by one senior radiation therapist and one junior radiation therapist. The influence of differing sites, radiation therapist seniority, image modality and cervical vertebra position on head and neck IGRT was then assessed. Results: Statistical analysis of the diagnosed field placement errors indicated that head and neck IGRT was undertaken consistently regardless of site, radiation therapist seniority, image modality and the position of the cervical vertebra. Conclusion: In the era of sophisticated treatment planning it is vital that the treatment delivery mechanism (IGRT) is performed consistently. Head and neck IGRT is the responsibility of the treating radiation therapist regardless of site, seniority, image modality and positioning challenges.