Comparison of Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy and Fixed Field Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy for Radical Treatment of Early Prostate Cancer using Hypofractionated Radiotherapy
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51253/pafmj.v73i3.7406Keywords:
Hypofractionated radiotherapy, Intensity-modulated radiation therapy, Prostate cancer, Volumetric modulated arc therapyAbstract
Objective: To investigate the dosimetric advantages of volumetric modulated arc therapy over intensity-modulated radiation therapy for radical treatment of early-stage prostate cancer.
Study Design: Retrospective longitudinal study.
Place and Duration of Study: Department of Radiation Oncology, Combined Military Hospital, Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Jan to Jun 2019.
Methodology: Two treatment plans; one volumetric modulated arc therapy and other intensity-modulated radiation therapy, were made for 13 patients undergoing radical radiotherapy for early prostate cancer. Conformity index, Homogeneity index, the volume of rectum and bladder receiving a dose of 50 Gy or more, monitor units employed and treatment delivery time were compared between both techniques.
Results: Volumetric modulated arc therapy plans showed statistically better conformity index and Homogeneity index with significantly lower doses to the rectum and bladder than intensity-modulated radiation therapy plans. The number of monitor units (MUs) employed and treatment delivery time were also reduced significantly with volumetric modulated arc therapy.
Conclusion: Volumetric modulated arc therapy generates dose-metrically better radiotherapy plans than intensity-modulated radiation therapy and can deliver the required dose faster.
Keywords: Hypofractionated radiotherapy, Intensity-modulated radiation therapy, Prostate cancer, Volumetric modulated arc
therapy.