Easy graphical display of beam directions in three-dimensional converging radiation therapy. Proposal for a radiation map

In stereotactic radiosurgery, non-coplanar isocentric beams are employed to concentrate the dose distribution on the planning target volume (PTV). However, the directions of incident beams must be determined with great care by using a digitally reconstructed beam's eye view (BEV) to prevent the irradiation of organs at risk. We present a new method of 2-dimensional graphical representation (radiation map) to facilitate the understanding of 3-dimensional relationships between incident beams and critical organs. After determining the isocenter and beam diameter, beam directions and critical organs are projected onto the imaginary sphere centered on the isocenter. The coordinate of the beam directions and the organs at risk can be expressed by latitude and longitude on the sphere. The contours of the organs at risk are displayed with a margin of the radius of the radiation beam. Mirror images of the critical organs are also displayed to prevent irradiation by the opposing beams. The radiation map could be produced within 5 minutes using a workstation. Radiation maps, like DVH, will be very useful in the evaluation of radiation treatment planning. (author)