Intrafractional motion and dosimetric analysis in prostate stereotactic body radiation therapy with auto beam hold technique

Abstract Objective : To summarize our institutional prostate stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) experience using auto beam hold (ABH) technique for intrafractional prostate motion and assess ABH tolerance of 10-millimeter (mm) diameter. Approach : Thirty-two patients (160 fractions) treated using ABH technique between 01/2018 and 03/2021 were analyzed. During treatment, kV images were acquired every 20-degree gantry rotation to visualize 3–4 gold fiducials within prostate to track target motion. If the fiducial center fell outside the tolerance circle (diameter = 10 mm), beam was automatically turned off for reimaging and repositioning. Number of beam holds and couch translational movement magnitudes were recorded. Dosimetric differences from intrafractional motion were calculated by shifting planned isocenter. Main Results : Couch movement magnitude (mean ± SD) in vertical, longitudinal and lateral directions were −0.7 ± 2.5, 1.4 ± 2.9 and −0.1 ± 0.9 mm, respectively. For most fractions (77.5%), no correction was necessary. Number of fractions requiring one, two, or three corrections were 15.6%, 5.6% and 1.3%, respectively. Of the 49 corrections, couch shifts greater than 3 mm were seen primarily in the vertical (31%) and longitudinal (39%) directions; corresponding couch shifts greater than 5 mm occurred in 2% and 6% of cases. Dosimetrically, 100% coverage decreased less than 2% for clinical target volume (CTV) (−1 ± 2%) and less than 10% for PTV (−10 ± 6%). Dose to bladder, bowel and urethra tended to increase (Bladder: ΔD10%:184 ± 466 cGy, ΔD40%:139 ± 241 cGy, Bowel: ΔD1 cm 3 :54 ± 129 cGy; ΔD5 cm 3 :44 ± 116 cGy, Urethra: ΔD0.03 cm 3 :1 ± 1%). Doses to the rectum tended to decrease (Rectum: ΔD1 cm 3 :−206 ± 564 cGy, ΔD10%:−97 ± 426 cGy; ΔD20%:−50 ± 251 cGy). Significance : With the transition from conventionally fractionated intensity modulated radiation therapy to SBRT for localized prostate cancer treatment, it is imperative to ensure that dose delivery is spatially accurate for appropriate coverage to target volumes and limiting dose to surrounding organs. Intrafractional motion monitoring can be achieved using triggered imaging to image fiducial markers and ABH to allow for reimaging and repositioning for excessive motion.