July 8, 2009 - Varian Medical Systems and RaySearch Laboratories AB have co-developed three new software solutions that are integrated as modules in the latest release of Varian’s Eclipse treatment planning system, which recently received 510(k) clearance from the FDA.
The products are treatment planning software modules for optimization of conventional three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D-CRT), radiobiological evaluation and radiobiological optimization.
While 3D-CRT is a well established technique for radiation treatments, it is time-consuming, requiring users to iteratively vary treatment parameters manually until a satisfactory result is attained in terms of dose to the tumor and optimal normal tissue sparing. The new conformal optimization module uses advanced algorithms to automate this process. The software optimizes all relevant treatment parameters to determine the best possible solution in a matter of minutes. This is designed to reduce the time and improve treatment quality.
The other two modules for radiobiological evaluation and optimization tools. The radiobiological evaluation tool evaluates the probability that a tumor can be controlled and the risk of damaging healthy tissue, for a given treatment plan. Clinicians can use this information to make decisions about how to adapt the treatment plans.
The biological optimization product is said to allow clinicians to formulate treatment objectives directly in clinical terms, such as the desired probability of controlling the tumor or the risk of causing radiation-induced complications.
For more information: www.varian.com