Model-based comparison of organ at risk protection between VMAT and robustly optimised IMPT plans

The comparison between intensity-modulated proton therapy (IMPT) and volume-modulated arc (VMAT) plans, based on models of normal tissue complication probabilities (NTCP), can support the choice radiation modality. IMPT irradiation plans for 50 patients with head neck tumours originally treated photon have been robustly optimised against density setup uncertainties. dose distribution has calculated a Monte Carlo (MC) algorithm. was dose-volume parameters in organs at risk (OARs) NTCP-calculations xerostomia, sticky saliva, dysphagia tube feeding using Langendijk's model-based approach. While target volumes is similar, show better protection OARs. Therefore, it not high confirmation that constitutes advantage protons, but reduction mid-to-low levels compared to photons. This work investigates what extent advantages are beneficial patient's post-therapeutic quality life (QoL). As result, approximately one third examined benefit significantly from regard possible late side effects. Clinical data needed confirm calculations.