Volume and dosimetric changes and initial clinical experience of a two-step adaptive intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) scheme for head and neck cancer.

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to show the benefit of a two-step intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) method by examining geometric and dosimetric changes.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twenty patients with pharyngeal cancers treated with two-step IMRT combined with chemotherapy were included. Treatment-planning CT was done twice before IMRT (CT-1) and at the third or fourth week of IMRT for boost IMRT (CT-2). Transferred plans recalculated initial plan on CT-2 were compared with the initial plans on CT-1. Dose parameters were calculated for a total dose of 70 Gy for each plan.

RESULTS

The volumes of primary tumors and parotid glands on CT-2 regressed significantly. Parotid glands shifted medially an average of 4.2mm on CT-2. The mean doses of the parotid glands in the initial and transferred plans were 25.2 Gy and 30.5 Gy, respectively. D(2) (dose to 2% of the volume) doses of the spinal cord were 37.1 Gy and 39.2 Gy per 70 Gy, respectively. Of 15 patients in whom xerostomia scores could be evaluated 1-2 years after IMRT, no patient complained of grade 2 or more xerostomia.

CONCLUSIONS

This two-step IMRT method as an adaptive RT scheme could adapt to changes in body contour, target volumes and risk organs during IMRT.