A dose–volume constraint (DVC) projection-based algorithm for IMPT inverse planning optimization

Purpose: Provide a projection-based algorithm to solve the class of optimization problems encountered in intensity modulated proton therapy (IMPT). The algorithm can handle percentage dose–volume constraints (DVCs) that are usually found in such problems. Methods: To seek a feasible solution, the automatic relaxation method was used to project the spot weight vector onto the interval defined by lower and upper bound target dose constraints. The obtained solution was optimized separately based on the objective of each organ at risk (OAR) in addition to maximizing the minimum target dose using the bisection search method using a stopping criterion of 10 cGy. The combined weight was used in the CQ algorithm to solve the split feasibility problem but with a special projection technique due to the nonconvexity of DVCs. The algorithm was applied to four clinical IMPT cases (meningioma, prostate, tongue, and oropharynx) and compared to the corresponding treatment plans optimized in Eclipse. Results: The treatment plans obtained, for the four cases, using the BCQ-ARM algorithm have dosimetric endpoints that are similar to their counterparts generated from Eclipse. The algorithm worked equally well with all cases, including the complex head and neck ones. The stopping criterion of 10 cGy results in making the generated plans slightly less optimal ((Formula presented.) –optimal) rather than optimal, but with the advantage of the possibility of generating a database of plans. Conclusions: The application of the BCQ-ARM algorithm to different cases of IMPT plans with DVCs was demonstrated. The algorithm is successful in generating plans that are dosimetrically equivalent to their corresponding Eclipse plans. Thus, it is suitable to generate optimized treatment plans in a clinically reasonable time frame.