From 2D to 3D gamma passing rate tolerance and action limits for patient-specific quality assurance in volumetric-modulated arc therapy.

backgroundVolumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) requires an accurate patient-specific quality assurance (PSQA) program. In clinical practice, this is usually performed using the γ-index and the two-dimensional gamma passing rate (2D %GP). A three-dimensional (3D) index incorporating the patient anatomy could be more useful for the 3D dose distribution verification. PURPOSE: The current study demonstrates a thorough investigation of VMAT PSQA treatment plans by examining the correlation between 3D Gamma passing rate (%GP) and 2D %GP. The aim was to establish the tolerance limits (TL) and action limits (AL) that could be adopted in clinical practice. MATERIALS AND

methodsPSQA was performed for 67 head and neck (H&N) and 69 prostate treatment plans, using an appropriate phantom and the γ-index method. The 3%/2  mm acceptance criterion was used. Treatment plans' 2D% GP and 3D %GP values were collected and correlated with individual 3D %GP values of planning target volume (PTV) and organs at risk (OARs). Institutional TL and AL of both 2D %GP and 3D %GP were established using 30 prostate and 30 H&N treatment plans, as per recommendations proposed by AAPM TG-218.

resultsA moderate correlation was observed between 2D %GP and 3D %GP of the treatment plans. Τhe correlations demonstrated a stronger association for the 3D %GP than for the 2D %GP with respect to the 3D %GP of the individual structures considered. The TL for the 3D %GP (both plan and individual) and the plans' 2D %GP were generally more stringent, while the AL showed a wider range compared to the corresponding limits suggested by the TG-218 protocol for plan 2D %GP.

conclusionsInstitution-specific 3D %GP as well as TL and AL for treatment plan, PTV and OARs could be incorporated in the PSQA procedure in synergy with the 2D evaluation, as they can provide a more-in-depth-view of the treatment quality.