Optimization of the rounded leaf offset table in modeling the multileaf collimator leaf edge in a commercial treatment planning system

An editable rounded leaf offset (RLO) table is provided in the Pinnacle(3) treatment planning software. Default tables are provided for major linear accelerator manufacturers, but it is not clear how the default table values should be adjusted by the user to optimize agreement between the calculated leaf tip value and the actual measured value. Since we wish for the calculated MLC‐defined field edge to closely match the actual delivered field edge, optimal RLO table values are crucial. This is especially true for IMRT fields containing a large number of segments, since any errors would add together. A method based on the calculated MLC‐defined field edge was developed for optimizing and modifying the default RLO table values. Modified RLO tables were developed and evaluated for both dosimetric and light field‐based MLC leaf calibrations. It was shown, using a Picket Fence type test, that the optimized RLO table better modeled the calculated leaf tip than the Pinnacle(3) default table. This was demonstrated for both an Elekta Synergy 80‐leaf and a Varian 120‐leaf MLC. PACS numbers: 87.55.D‐, 87.55.de, 87.55.Qr