Picker ACQSIM 3-D computed tomography (CT) simulation system and ADAC Pinnacle treatment planning system. The Center for Radiation Oncology provides patients with state-of-the-art radiation therapy planning. Center for Radiation Oncology is capable of performing 3-D multi-cut computerized tomography (CT) treatment planning with very sophisticated target localization that results in superior patient care by maximizing tumor dose while minimizing side effects. This is accomplished by the ADAC treatment planning system, allowing physicians to be provided with 3-D CT image reconstruction of tumor volumes as well as critical organs that result in pin-point accuracy. Thus the physicians are provided with the critical information needed for treatment assessment and reassessment as the ADAC system prints prescription dose curves on CT images that clearly show doses to treatment volumes. Therefore treatments can be changed, preplanning can be conducted, and highly accurate analysis of critical organ doses can be presented to the physician. In comparison, other 3-D treatment planning systems require three lengthy procedures to accomplish the same localization. Since the ACQSIM; creates and prints digitally reconstructed radiographs, the patient doesn’t have to wait while x-ray film is developed and reviewed by the doctor.

Some examples of the capabilities of Center for Radiation Oncology are as follows:

• Breast Cancer: Prescription dose curves are printed on the patient's contour clearly showing doses to skin and the affected side lung. This allows the Radiation Oncologist to finely adjust doses to achieve maximum treatment effectiveness.
• Prostate Cancer: The prostate and seminal vesicles are displayed on the digitally reconstructed radiographs (DRRs) resulting in maximum protection to rectum and bladder. Additionally, treatment plans in the chart show every CT image with target volumes so isodose distributions can be analyzed by the Radiation Oncologist.
• Paranasal/Sinus Tumors: The target treatment area is displayed on the digitally reconstructed radiographs (DRRs) resulting in maximum protection to the brain, eyes, and oral cavity. As stated earlier, CT images presented with dose curves show the Radiation Oncologist the effectiveness of blocking so that adjustments can be made, if needed, to reduce unwanted side effects.
• Brain Tumors: The treatment of small brain tumors can be planned in such a way as to only treat the target volume with minimal doses to healthy brain volume. Treatments can be conducted in ways previously only available at research institutions.

The Center for Radiation Oncology employs only certified personnel to perform treatment planning and associated quality assurance. Quality assurance checks are performed on every treatment plan and doses are verified weekly on each patient.