What is the optimum number of beams and energy for IMRT boost in prostate cancer? A plan comparison study
e16158 Background: Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT) is used in carcinoma prostate to achieve better target coverage with less dose to critical organs thereby permitting dose escalation and eventually better therapeutic ratio. There is scarcity of literature evaluating beam number and energy in prostate cancer treated by IMRT. Aim of our study is to identify the optimal number of beams and energy in the boost treatment of prostate cancer by IMRT. Methods: Ten patients were included in this study. Initially a dose of 45 Gy in 25 fractions was delivered to the prostate, seminal vesicles and the nodes by 3DCRT. A boost dose of 27 Gy in 15 fractions was planned to the prostate and the seminal vesicles by sliding window IMRT. Four different sets of IMRT plans: 5, 7 and 9 field with 6 MV; 7 field with 15 MV were generated. The dose constraints to the critical structures and the target volume were based on standard guidelines. The mean dose, maximum dose, volume receiving the prescribed dose (V100), volume receiving > 107% and <95% of the prescribed dose were analyzed for CTV and planning target volume (PTV). The mean dose, volume receiving 100%, 50% and 30% of the prescribed dose were analyzed for the bladder and the rectum. Similarly, the mean dose and the maximum dose to the right and left femoral heads, monitor units (MU) and the integral dose were analyzed. SPSS V10.0 software was used for statistical analysis. Results: The seven beam plan provide better dose homogeneity to PTV and lesser doses to critical structures like bladder, rectum and femoral heads when 6 MV photon is used. 15 MV photons further improve the dose homogeneity and decrease the dose to critical structures. The Monitoring Units required to deliver the treatment and the Integral dose is significantly reduced by using 15 MV compared to 6 MV. Conclusions: The optimal IMRT plan for boost planning in carcinoma prostate is that uses 7 beams and higher energy. This yields lesser dose to surrounding critical structures with better target conformity. [Table: see text] No significant financial relationships to disclose.