Consensus opinion on MRI simulation for external beam radiation treatment planning

Abstract

Aim: To determine the levels at which consensus could be reached regarding general and site-specific principles of MRI simulation for offline MRI-aided external beam radiation treatment planning. Methods: A process inspired by the Delphi method was employed to determine levels of consensus using a series of questionnaires interspersed with controlled opinion feedback. Results: In general, full consensus was reached regarding general principles of MRI simulation. However, the level of consensus decreased when site-specific principles of MRI simulation were considered. Conclusions: These results indicate variability in MRI simulation approaches that are largely explained by the use of MRI in combination with CT. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.