Reducing Proton Therapy Uncertainty with Virtual Photon-Counting CT
Analysis
This paper addresses the critical issue of range uncertainty in proton therapy, a major challenge in ensuring accurate dose delivery to tumors. The authors propose a novel approach using virtual imaging simulators and photon-counting CT to improve the accuracy of stopping power ratio (SPR) calculations, which directly impacts treatment planning. The use of a vendor-agnostic approach and the comparison with conventional methods highlight the potential for improved clinical outcomes. The study's focus on a computational head model and the validation of a prototype software (TissueXplorer) are significant contributions.
Key Takeaways
- •Virtual imaging simulators and photon-counting CT are used to improve SPR calculations.
- •TissueXplorer, a prototype software, shows promise for more accurate SPR prediction.
- •The study validates the potential for improved dose distribution accuracy compared to conventional methods.
“TissueXplorer showed smaller dose distribution differences from the ground truth plan than the conventional stoichiometric calibration method.”