Radiotherapy of malignant gliomas: Comparison of volumetric single arc technique (RapidArc), dynamic intensity-modulated technique and 3D conformal technique

Purpose: The analysis was designed to identify the optimal radiation technique for patients with malignant glioma Methods A volumetric-modulated radiation treatment technique (RapidArc), an IMRT technique anti a 3D conformal technique were calculated on Computed tomograms of 14 consecutive patients with malignant glioma. The treatment plans were compared with each other using dose-volume histograms Results The 3D conformal technique showed a good PTV coverage. if PTV was distant to organs at risk (OAR). If PTV was nearby OAR, the 3D technique revealed a poor PTV coverage in contrast to both intensity-modulated techniques The conventional IMRT technique showed a slightly better PTV coverage than RapidArc The advantages of RapidArc were a shorter treatment time, less monitor units and a small V(107%) Conclusions: If PTV is distant to OAR. the use of 3D conformal technique is sufficient. Otherwise an intensity-modulated technique should be used RapidArc was faster than conventional IMRT and should be preferred if PTV coverage is adequate (C) 2009 Elsevier Ireland Ltd All rights reserved Radiotherapy and Oncology 93 (2009) 593-596