A tool to include gamma analysis software into a quality assurance program

Christina E Agnew, Conor K McGarry

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

12 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

PURPOSE: To provide a tool to enable gamma analysis software algorithms to be included in a quality assurance (QA) program.

METHODS: Four image sets were created comprising two geometric images to independently test the distance to agreement (DTA) and dose difference (DD) elements of the gamma algorithm, a clinical step and shoot IMRT field and a clinical VMAT arc. The images were analysed using global and local gamma analysis with 2 in-house and 8 commercially available software encompassing 15 software versions. The effect of image resolution on gamma pass rates was also investigated.

RESULTS: All but one software accurately calculated the gamma passing rate for the geometric images. Variation in global gamma passing rates of 1% at 3%/3mm and over 2% at 1%/1mm was measured between software and software versions with analysis of appropriately sampled images.

CONCLUSION: This study provides a suite of test images and the gamma pass rates achieved for a selection of commercially available software. This image suite will enable validation of gamma analysis software within a QA program and provide a frame of reference by which to compare results reported in the literature from various manufacturers and software versions.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)568-73
Number of pages6
JournalRadiotherapy and Oncology
Volume118
Issue number3
Early online date26 Feb 2016
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Mar 2016

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