Integrated system of computer-controlled conformation radiotherapy

So-called 'conformation radiotherapy', by which field size is changed during treatment in rotational therapy, was developed in 1960. Since then, a 6 MV X-ray linear accelerator (1967), the computerized radiotherapy treatment planning system (1973), and a radiotherapy-oriented CT-machine (1975) were introduced in conformation radiotherapy. Since 1985, conformation radiotherapy has been performed by using a CT device, computer system for treatment planning, and computer system for controlling linear accelerator. In 1990, Aichi Cancer Center developed integrated radiation therapy information system for obtaining and processing image data, radiation treatment data, and the other patient data. The system is called the Aichi Cancer Center Radiation Oncology System (ACCROS), consisting of CT or MR scanning equipment, X-ray simulator and radiation treatment planning units. This equipment is connected by a local area network (LAN) controlled by two host computers managing and storing imaging data and non-imaging data, respectively. The ACCROS allows quite easy and accurate performance of conformation radiotherapy. A 10-year experience with the ACCROS has proved useful for not only conformation radiotherapy but also routine medical practice. (N.K.)