Objective
To compare plans using volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) with conventional sliding window intensity-modulated radiation therapy (c-IMRT) to treat upper thoracic esophageal cancer (EC).

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Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy vs. c-IMRT for the Treatment of Upper Thoracic Esophageal Cancer

Objective To evaluate the dose distribution between three dimensional conformal radiotherapy(3D-CRT) and intensity modulated radiotherapy(IMRT) in tumor target area and organs at risks.Methods Twenty patients with thoracic esophageal carcinoma underwent CT simulation.The IMRT plan and 3D-CRT plan were designed for each patient.The prescription dose in 95%of PTV volume was 60 Gy.PTV and organs at risk in 3-DCRT and IMRT plans were compared.Results Dose parameters of PTV50 of IMRT plan was superior than those of 3DCRT(P0.01).The volume parameters V100 of PTV50 of IMRT plan was higher than those of 3DCRT plan.Dose and volume parameters of PTV60 were similar between the 3DCRT plan and IMRT plan.The mean dose of PTV60 of IMRT plan was lower than that of 3DCRT plan(P0.01).The conformity indexes of PTV50 and PTV60 in the IMRT plan were higher than those in 3DCRT plan.The V5,V10,V15,V20 of the total lung in the IMRT plan were all lower than those in the 3D-CRT plan(P0.01).The maximum dose of spinal cord of IMRT plan was higher than that of 3D-CRT plan;the mean heart dose was similar.But the doses of spinal cord and heart were limited in tolerant range.Conclusion Considering the target conformal degree and target dose,IMRT is superior to 3D-CRT.Additionally,it can reduce the exposure dose of the lung.

Xu Jian

Papers

Comparison of dose distributions between conformal and intensity modulated radiotherapy for the esophageal carcinoma