Correlation of external markers and functional targets for respiration compensation in radiotherapy

Abstract

The goal of radiation therapy is to give as intensive treatment dose as possible to the exact location of a tumor (target) and at the same time minimising a potential harm to the healthy tissues. Advances in the computer-based control have enabled planning and providing accurate treatments. However, current technology does not allow compensating for respiratory motion in the lungs and abdomen area. As the target moves due to respiratory motion, healthy tissues are affected. This paper presents a work-in-progress, which aims at developing algorithmic techniques for estimating correlation of external markers and functional targets. These techniques will enable tracking tumours during radiotherapy sessions an dynamically adjusting for respiratory movements.