Program Information

MU Model Implementation for a Passively Scattered Proton Beam: Inclusion of the Bolus Gap and Nozzle Extension Factors

R Simpson*, A Ghebremedhin , I Gordon , B Patyal , Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA, F. Piskulich, Scripps Proton Therapy Center, San Diego, CA, Brett LeMaster, San Diego State University.

Presentations

SU-E-T-246 Sunday 3:00PM - 6:00PM Room: Exhibit Hall

Purpose: To develop and implement an MU model for a passively scattered proton beam, and eliminate the need for patient specific calibrations for field sizes from 3cm to 15cm. This would enable consistent and timely calibrations for a wide variety of patient portals, streamlining the treatment process.
Methods: Measurements were initially made using a Standard Imaging A-16 ion chamber and a modified water tank to determine the bolus gap factors (BGF) for multiple combinations of aperture size, bolus thickness, and air gap. The BGF was then separated into two component factors: the bolus thickness factor (BTF) and the nozzle extension factor (NEF). Polynomial curves were generated using the measured data to produce BTF tables for air gaps from 0cm to 30cm and for bolus thicknesses from 0cm to 10cm, and NEF tables for the full range of clinically used nozzle extensions. Additionally, data tables were created for every factor that affects beam output in the MU model. The MUs were then modeled for 487 patient portals and retrospectively compared to the MUs generated from the physical calibrations previously performed.
Results: Of the 487 patient portals tested, 100% of the portals used for the comparison were within 2.5% from the MUs generated using a physical calibration, and 95.9% of the MU model portals tested were within 2%. The patient portals tested had field sizes ranging from 2.1cm to 10.1cm, with air gaps from 2cm to 25cm. Output factors for field sizes below 3cm with irregularly shaped fields demonstrated inconsistent results and will be further studied.
Conclusion: The most problematic output factor, the BGF, was modeled accurately and consistently using the lowest order polynomial curve fits and interpolation between measured data. The study results demonstrate the robustness of the MU model and the potential for saving valuable personnel and beam time.

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