Dosimetric Multicenter Planning Comparison Studies for Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy: Methodology and Future Perspectives

Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys. 2020 Feb 1;106(2):403-412. doi: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2019.10.041. Epub 2019 Nov 7.

Abstract

In this review a summary of the published literature pertaining to the stereotactic body radiation therapy multiplanning comparison, data sharing strategies, and implementation of benchmark planning cases to improve the skills and knowledge of the participating centers was investigated. A total of 30 full-text articles were included. The studies were subdivided in 3 categories: multiplanning studies on dosimetric variability, planning harmonization before clinical trials, and technical and methodologic studies. The methodology used in the studies were critically analyzed to find common and original elements with the pros and cons. Multicenter planning studies have played a key role in improving treatment plan harmonization, treatment plan compliance, and even clinical practices. This review has highlighted that some fundamental steps should be taken to transform a simple treatment planning comparison study into a potential credentialing method for stereotactic body radiation therapy accreditation. In particular, prescription and general requirements should always be well defined; data analysis should be performed with independent dose volume histogram or dose calculations; quality score indices should be constructed; feedback and correction strategies should be provided; and a simple web-based collaboration platform should be used. The results reported clearly showed that a crowd-based replanning approach is a viable method for achieving harmonization and standardization of treatment planning among centers using different technologies.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Accreditation
  • Benchmarking*
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Credentialing
  • Humans
  • Multicenter Studies as Topic*
  • Organs at Risk / radiation effects
  • Radiosurgery / methods*
  • Radiotherapy Dosage*