ABSTRACT
AIM: To quantify the impact of decreased margins for two treatment techniques, three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT) and volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT), on local control in curative treatment of prostate cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The planning target volume (PTV) margins were decreased in steps of 1 mm from 10 to 1 mm. Treatment plans using 3D-CRT and VMAT technique were produced for all margin sizes and the dose to the neuro vascular bundles (NVB), that was not included in the PTV, was investigated. RESULTS: Due to the more conformal dose delivery using VMAT, the dose to the NVB decreased more rapidly by VMAT compared to the 3D-CRT plans. The dose difference was significant for margins from 1-7 mm. CONCLUSION: One should be very cautious before clinical routines are changed, bearing in mind whether the change means more conformal treatment technique, smaller margins or target segmentation in different imaging modalities.
