The regional Monte Carlo method: a dose calculation method based on accuracy requirement.

ABSTRACT

In this work we propose the regional Monte Carlo (RMC) method of dose calculation. This method combines the Monte Carlo (MC) algorithm and a non-MC algorithm (such as the convolution method) for optimal speed and accuracy in dose calculation for both photon and electron beams and for various irradiation and patient geometries. For specific regions in the geometry where high accuracy is required but difficult to obtain with analytical or empirical calculations, such as critical organs surrounded by complicated inhomogeneities, the MC algorithm is used. For regions with simple geometries, or where a high degree of dose accuracy is not critical, the non-MC algorithm is used to increase speed. There are two aspects of the RMC method. The first one involves determining critical regions and boundaries, and the other involves the actual implementation and mixing of the two computational algorithms. Two examples of different geometries are used to illustrate the different ways to apply the RMC method. The possibility to extend the method to more complicated geometries and inhomogeneities, as well as the ability of the method to incorporate different calculation algorithms, are also discussed.