Development of open access tool for automatic use factor calculation using DICOM-RT patient data

Our study recalculated the use factor of linear accelerators (LINACs) by using an in-house program based on Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine radiation therapy (DICOM-RT). We considered the impact of advancements and changes in treatment trends, including modality, technology, and radiation dose, on the use factor, which is one of the shielding parameters. In accordance with the methodology described in the NCRP 151 report, we computed the use factor for four linear accelerators (LINACs) across three hospitals. We analyzed the results based on the treatment techniques and treatment sites for three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D-CRT) and intensity modulated radiation therapy or volumetric modulated arc therapy. Our findings revealed that the use factors obtained at 45° and 90° were 14.8% and 13.5% higher than those of the NCRP 151 report. In treatment rooms with a high 3D-CRT ratio, the use factor at a specific angle differed by up to 14.6% relative to the NCRP 151 report value. Our results showed a large difference in the use factor for specific sites such as the breast and spine, so it is recommended that each institution recalculate the use factor using patient’s data. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13246-023-01272-1.