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Computational analysis and dosimetric evaluation of a commercial irregular‐fields computer program
Author(s) -
Hallberg Jerome R.,
Ibbott Geoffrey S.,
Carson Paul L.,
Hendee William R.,
Aymar Michael A.
Publication year - 1977
Publication title -
medical physics
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.473
H-Index - 180
eISSN - 2473-4209
pISSN - 0094-2405
DOI - 10.1118/1.594344
Subject(s) - dosimetry , medical physics , computer science , medical imaging , nuclear medicine , medicine , artificial intelligence
The proper evaluation of the accuracy of a new computer program for radiation‐therapy dosimetry requires consideration of both the mathematical algorithm used in the program and the performance required in clinical applications. As an example, our evaluation of the irregular‐fields dosimetry program currently marketed by SHM for their Rad‐8 system is described. The evaluation begins with an explanation of the mathematical computation method, with emphasis on the points where the calculation differs from previous methods. Next, the procedure for setting up the beam data file is discussed. Finally, a step‐by‐step procedure is described in which calculated doses are compared with measured doses, using a Varian Clinac‐4 with lead flattening filter, and the limits within which a ±5% accuracy is attainable are estimated. Some sources of error and areas for possible improvements are mentioned.