Real-Time Intra-Fraction Target Tracking During Radiation Therapy - 07/13

Real-time intra-fraction target tracking, as an adjunct to the delivery of radiation therapy is defined as techniques and devices that enable adjustment of the target radiation while it is being delivered (i.e., intra-fraction adjustments) to compensate for movement of the organ inside the body. Realtime tracking is defined as frequent or continuous target tracking in the treatment room during radiation therapy, with periodic or continuous adjustment to targeting made on the basis of target motion detected by the tracking system. This policy does not address approaches used to optimize consistency of patient positioning in setting up either the overall treatment plan or individual treatment sessions (i.e., inter-fraction adjustments); instead it deals with approaches to monitor target movement within a single treatment session.