The use of a virtual reality simulator to explore and understand the impact of Linac mis-calibrations

17th International Conference on the Use of Computers in Radiation Therapy

物理学;计算机科学

Beavis, Andrew W.^1,2,3,4 ; Ward, James W.^2,3

Department of Radiation Physics, Queens Centre for Oncology and Haematology, Cottingham, Hull, United Kingdom^1

Department of Computer Science, University of Hull, Hull, United Kingdom^2

Vertual Ltd, Logistics Institute, University of Hull, Hull, United Kingdom^3

Faculty of Health and Well Being, Sheffield-Hallam University, Sheffield, United Kingdom^4

关键词: Configuration parameters;    Fundamental concepts;    Medical training;    Radiation oncology;    Realistic environments;    Software modules;    Treatment plans;    Virtual reality simulator;   

Others  :  https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1742-6596/489/1/012086/pdf
DOI  :  10.1088/1742-6596/489/1/012086

学科分类：计算机科学（综合）

来源: IOP

【 摘 要 】

Purpose: In recent years there has been interest in using Computer Simulation within Medical training. The VERT (Virtual Environment for Radiotherapy Training) system is a Flight Simulator for Radiation Oncology professionals, wherein fundamental concepts, techniques and problematic scenarios can be safely investigated. Methods: The system provides detailed simulations of several Linacs and the ability to display DICOM treatment plans. Patients can be mis-positioned with 'set-up errors' which can be explored visually, dosimetrically and using IGRT. Similarly, a variety of Linac calibration and configuration parameters can be altered manually or randomly via controlled errors in the simulated 3D Linac and its component parts. The implication of these can be investigated by following through a treatment scenario or using QC devices available within a Physics software module. Results: One resultant exercise is a systematic mis-calibration of 'lateral laser height' by 2mm. The offset in patient alignment is easily identified using IGRT and once corrected by reference to the 'in-room monitor'. The dosimetric implication is demonstrated to be 0.4% by setting a dosimetry phantom by the lasers (and ignoring TSD information). Finally, the need for recalibration can be shown by the Laser Alignment Phantom or by reference to the front pointer. Conclusions: The VERT system provides a realistic environment for training and enhancing understanding of radiotherapy concepts and techniques. Linac error conditions can be explored in this context and valuable experience gained in a controlled manner in a compressed period of time.