| abstract |
(57) [Summary]nFALCON is a method of automatically performing multivariable optimization on any assessment criterion that can be applied to various fields that combine prognostic simulation with optimization and assessment criteria. A special embodiment of FALCON is an automated radiation therapy treatment plan. In this application, FALCON performs a dose calculation in the planning process, optimizes available beam delivery modifier parameters, and determines a treatment plan that best meets clinical decision criteria. Although FALCON is described in the context of optimizing external beam radiation therapy and intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), the concept is also applicable to internal (brachytherapy) radiation therapy. The radiation beam may consist of photons or any charged or uncharged particles. The concept of optimizing the source distribution can be applied to complex radiation therapies (eg, flash x-rays or protons) and improve the imaging capabilities of the proposed facility for science-based inventory management. |