Panther DAO IMRT takes IMRT to the next level with Direct Aperture Optimization (DAO). Powered by a new 3D convolution/superposition dose calculation engine, and an algorithm which includes all the delivery constraints within the optimization process, Panther DAO IMRT is the only true WYSIWYG inverse planning system on the market, and the first and only commercial treatment planning system to incorporate DAO.
Simplified IMRT
Typically, traditional IMRT techniques use a two-step approach to arrive at a final treatment plan. First, a fluence map is optimized from each beam direction (optimization). Then, the set of aperture shapes that most closely reproduces each fluence map (leaf sequencing) is determined. This approach is flawed because the delivery constraints are not easily enforced during the optimization; and the number of segments is typically 2-3 times the number of intensity levels.
With DAO, the positions of the leaves and relative weights of the individual apertures are simultaneously optimized. DAO eliminates the leaf-sequencing step. Since the user pre-specifies the number of apertures to deliver from each beam direction, resulting plans are much more efficient.
Clinical Benefits of DAO IMRT
Up to 65% reduction in segments
- Less wear-and-tear on equipment
- Lower equipment maintenance costs
- Longer equipment life span
- Simplified QA
Up to 60% reduction in Monitor Units (MUs)
- Reduced total body dose
- Fewer radiation protection concerns
Shorter treatment time
- Improved patient comfort
- More accurate dose delivery
- Treat more patients in the same amount of time
State-of-the-art Optimization Algorithm
- User selectable number of segments
- Quick convergence ability of the algorithm reduces the time for optimization
- Eight different types of constraints supported, including Equivalent Uniform Dose (EUD)
- MLC leaf increments as small as 1mm are possible.
- Voxel spacing as small as 1mm x 1mm x CT slice thickness
- Absolutely no deterioration in the quality of the DVH graphs after applying the optimization results
- Non coplanar beams support for IMRT
Efficient User Interface
- Single window interface for the complete Optimization procedure
- Live graphical user interface to alter constraint parameters during the optimization cycle in real time.
- Can stop, quit and continue optimization as needed
- Constraint Libraries supported
- Display of fluence maps for each selected segment of the beam in BEV
- Tabular display of sequential fluences for the segments of each beam
- Ability to allow user to change the sequence of the segments in any of the beams
- MU Display for each of the segments in total or per fraction
- Plan template managers allow saving and retrieval of IMRT plans with ease
- One button push to IMRT phantom for QA
- Fully DICOM 3.0 and DICOM RT compliant for import and export
- Support for CT, MRI, PET images
- Automatic Image Fusion by maximizing Mutual Information
- Plan with up to five fused and registered image series
- Support up to 60 contours
- Undo, Redo contouring utility
- Create new volumes with Asymmetric margins and Boolean operators
- 512 x 512 DRR with enhancement tools
- Single interface window throughout the planning procedure
- CT view in 3D with efficient multi-planar reconstruction.
- Plan comparison
- User selectable window layout
- Zoom any view to full screen
- Isodose, Iso-Fill and Colorwash features
- Beam, Plan templates
- Photons and Electrons beams can be combined
- Planning on top of existing dose
- Side by side plan comparison
- DVH comparison and Dose Volume Limit evaluation
- Multiple dose calculation algorithm support
- Relative and Absolute dose values
- User defined calculation matrix
- Non-coplanar beams planning
Treat Your Patient Using IMRT Without the Expense of an MLC
Now you can develop plans comparable to traditional IMRT plans, without using a MLC. Panther Intelligent IMRT is ideal for facilities that wish to deliver IMRT plans, but do not have an MLC.
Prowess’ unique Intelligent IMRT uses only the jaws of the collimator to shape the beam, effectively eliminating the need for any other beam-shaping device, including an MLC or block.
Treat Your Patient Using IMRT Without the Expense of an MLC
Panther™ Solid-Compensator IMRT utilizes precision-machined blocks for beam shaping, effectively eliminating the need for a MLC. Solid-Compensator IMRT gives you and your patient’s superior end result using the most advanced technology.