Simulation and “Virtual Patient” in Radiotherapy

Abstract

Abstract CT simulators are software systems used in the radiotherapy clinics for simulating the radiation beams of a radiotherapy treatment plan. They use acquired Computed Tomography (CT) data set of the patient, including the external patient´s skin landmarks, instead of the physical patient. The implemented high-end visualization techniques allow the users to simulate every function of the treatment machine including the mechanical component movements, radiation beam projection and fluoroscopy. The virtual simulation concept provides the physicians with ergonomic volume definition and anatomy navigation tools.