A virtual phantom for patient‐specific QA On A 1.5 T MR‐linac

Abstract

Create a virtual ArcCHECK‐MR phantom, customized for a 1.5 T MR‐linac, with consideration of the different density regions within the quality assurance (QA) phantom, aiming to streamline the utilization of this specialized QA device. A virtual phantom was constructed in the treatment planning system (TPS) to replicate the ArcCHECK‐MR's composition, consisting of five distinct layers: “Outer” (representing the outer PMMA ring), “Complex” (simulating the printed circuit boards), “Detectors” (encompassing the detector area), “Inner” (signifying the inner PMMA ring) and “Insert” (representing the PMMA insert). These layers were defined based on geometric data and represented as contour points on a set of dummy CT images. Additionally, a setup platform was integrated as contoured structures. To determine the relative electron density (RED) values of the external and internal PMMA components, measurements were taken at 25 points in the insert using an ion chamber. A novel method for establishing the exit/entrance dose ratio (EEDR) for ArcCHECK‐MR was introduced. The RED of higher density region was derived by evaluating the local gamma index passing rate results with criteria of 2% dose difference and 2 mm distance‐to‐agreement. The performance of the virtual phantom was assessed for Unity 7 FFF beams with a 1.5 T magnetic field. The radii of the five ring structures within the virtual phantom measured 133.0  mm, 110.0  mm, 103.4  mm, 100.0  mm, and 75.0  mm for the “Outer,” “Complex,” “Detectors,” “Inner” and “Insert” regions, respectively. The RED values were as follows: ArcCHECK‐MR PMMA had a RED of 1.130, “Detectors” were assumed to have a RED of 1.000, “Complex” had a RED of 1.200, and the setup QA phantom justified a RED of 1.350. Early validation results demonstrate that the 5‐layer virtual phantom, when compared to the commonly used bulk overridden phantom, offers improved capability in MR‐linac environments. This enhancement led to an increase in passing rates for the local gamma index by approximately 5 ∼ 6%, when applying the criteria of 2%, 2  mm. We have successfully generated a virtual representation of the distinct regions within the ArcCHECK‐MR using a TPS, addressing the challenges associated with its use in conjunction with a 1.5 T MR‐linac. We consistently observed favorable local gamma index passing rates across two 1.5 T MR‐linac and ArcCHECK‐MR unit combinations. This approach has the potential to minimize uncertainties in the creation of the QA phantom for ArcCHECK‐MR across various institutions.