Dosimetric Comparison of Dynamic Conformal Arc Therapy and Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy using Stereotactic Radiotherapy for Carcinoma Brain

Document Type : Original Paper

Authors

1 Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical Radiation Physics Program, Manipal, Manipal College of Health Professions, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India-576104.

2 Department of Radiation Oncology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India-576104.

10.22038/ijmp.2025.78775.2393

Abstract

Introduction: Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) conventionally relies upon dynamic conformal arc therapy (DCAT), yet the untapped potential of volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) has not undergone comprehensive scrutiny. This investigation seeks to bridge this research lacuna by comparing DCAT and VMAT in the context of four-fraction SRS for single brain carcinoma treatment.
Material and Methods: A retrospective cohort of twenty patients with solitary brain tumors was meticulously chosen, and treatment plans using both VMAT and DCAT were devised for each case utilizing congruent CT images. The comparative study analysed factors such as target conformity, monitor units and doses to organs at risk.
Results: VMAT plans notably exhibited enhanced conformity indices with mean and standard deviation values for the Paddick Conformity Index being 0.650 ± 0.18 for DCAT and 0.751 ± 0.08 for VMAT. Also, VMAT reduced radiation doses to pivotal anatomical structures, in contrast to the DCAT plans. However, the VMAT approach necessitated a greater number of Mus than DCAT with the mean and standard deviation being 986.95 ± 146.3 and 571.36 ± 59.6, respectively.
Conclusion: In the realm of SRS for isolated brain carcinoma, VMAT decidedly surpassed DCAT in target conformity as well as in mitigating the risk of brain radiation necrosis. Nonetheless, DCAT find relevance in patients with compromised performance status to prolonged radiotherapy sessions due to its abbreviated duration in the treatment. This research highlights the nuanced considerations inherent in treatment selection and also sheds insightful light on the optimal therapeutic approach.

Keywords

Main Subjects

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Iranian Journal of Medical Physics
Volume 22, Issue 2
March and April 2025
Pages 98-104

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History

  • Receive Date: 15 March 2024
  • Revise Date: 13 November 2024
  • Accept Date: 22 April 2025

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