Objective: To prospectively analyze the feasibility of an algorithm for patient preparation, treatment planning and selection for deep inspiration breath-hold (DIBH) treatment of left-sided breast cancer. Methods: From 02/2017 to 07/2019, 135 patients with left-sided breast cancer were selected and prepared for radiotherapy in DIBH. 99 received radiotherapy for the breast alone and 36 for the breast including the lymphatic drainage (RNI). Treatment plans DIBH and free breathing (FB) were calculated. Dosimetrical analyses were performed and criteria were defined to assess whether a patient would dosimetrically profit from DIBH. Results: Of the 135 patients, 97 received a DIBH planning CT and 72 were selected for treatment in DIBH according to predefined criteria. When using DIBH there was a mean reduction of the DmeanHeart of 2.8 Gy and DmeanLAD of 4.2 Gy. seven patients did not benefit from DIBH regarding DmeanHeart, 23 regarding DmeanLAD. For the left lung the V20Gy was reduced by 4.9%, the V30Gy by 2.7% with 15 and 29 patients not benefitting from DIBH, respectively. In the 25 patients treated in FB, the benefit of DIBH would have been lower than for patients treated with DIBH (ΔDmeanHeart0.7 Gy vs 3.4 Gy). Conclusion: Dosimetrically, DIBH is no “one fits all” approach. However, there is a statistically significant benefit when looking at a larger patient population. DIBH should be used for treatment of left-sided breast cancer in patients fit for DIBH. Advances in knowledge: This analysis offers a well-designed dosimetrical analysis in patients treated with DIBH radiotherapy in an “every day” cohort.
Comparison of CT images with average intensity projection, free breathing, and mid-ventilation for dose calculation in lung cancer