A Gradient Method of Optimizing External-Beam Radiotherapy Treatment Plans

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Abstract
Although a number of methods of treatment optimization by computer have been proposed, they have received little support. An alternative approach is proposed based on the differentials of a treatment evaluation function with respect to wedge angle, incidence angle, entry point and field weighting. The technique may be used in a batch-oriented computer system, or, by means of a conversational terminal, the therapist can plan a treatment with guidance from the program. Although it can be used to find global optima by a search process, it operates best as a method of improving partially-satisfactory treatments.