Royal Philips Electronics introduced SmartArc, the only independent technology for volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) treatment planning that can be used with the leading linear accelerators on the market. VMAT is an advanced form of intensity-modulated radiation therapy in which the treatment machine rotates around the patient while the treatment beam is on. The basic promise of VMAT delivery is to significantly reduce treatment time per patient
Dave Shepard, Ph.D., DABR, director of Medical Physics Radiation Oncology at the Swedish Cancer Institute in Seattle, Wash said, Volumetric-modulated arc therapy provides the ability to combine the dosimetric benefits of rotational therapy with the dose painting capabilities of IMRT. In addition to improved plan quality, VMAT results in more efficient plan deliveries – using VMAT for complex head-and-neck cases can result in a seven minute reduction in our average treatment time. The SmartArc module in the Pinnacle3 treatment planning system has proven to be a robust planning solution for VMAT.
Philips SmartArc advanced treatment planning technology allows single or multiple user-definable arcs and supports both constant- and variable- dose rate delivery. Constant-dose rate delivery allows clinicians to explore the benefits of VMAT delivery without the expense and downtime associated with an upgrade to their linear accelerator.
Keith Tipton, general manager, Philips Radiation Oncology Solutions said, VMAT is the next iteration of IMRT and conformal arc therapy – capabilities Philips Pinnacle3 has been providing for more than five years. SmartArc seamlessly blends these capabilities in a fully integrated solution that meets the needs of our customers.