Evaluating which plan quality metrics are appropriate for use in lung SBRT

Abstract

Based on our study analyses, we recommend the following metrics as appropriate surrogates for establishing SBRT lung plan quality guidelines-coverage % (ICRU 62), conformity (CN or CI_Paddick) and gradient (R_50%). Furthermore, we strongly recommend that RTOG lung SBRT protocols adopt either CN or CI_Padddick in place of prescription isodose to target volume ratio for conformity index evaluation. Advances in knowledge: Our study metrics are valuable tools for establishing lung SBRT plan quality guidelines.