ABSTRACT
The BrainLab stereotactic irradiation software, BrainScan, includes modules for planning stereotactic irradiation (SRS) using dynamic noncoplanar arcs or fixed conformal beams when the linear accelerator is equipped with a beam-shaping tool, either a mini multileaf collimator (mMLC) or cylindrical cerrobend collimators. We have been using BrainScan version 5.0 for the last year. Our system includes both conventional circular collimators and a computerized mMLC, allowing us the choice of either delivering traditional radiosurgery (noncoplanar arcs) or conformal (fixed shaped beams combined with an mMLC) stereotactic radiation, depending on the size and shape of the lesion. We will describe here the basic principles and stages of planning and delivery of both techniques, including the benefits and drawbacks of the two methods. We will also highlight the strong and weak points of the BrainLab radiosurgery system.
