Analysis of the motion of oropharyngeal tumors and consequences in planning target volume determination

PurposeTo determine adequate three-dimensional (3D) margins around the clinical target volume (CTV) of oropharyngeal cancers.Methods and materialsThe CTV, bounded by implanted markers, was recorded under fluoroscopy in antero-posterior (AP) and lateral view. The peak-to-peak motion was measured in lateral, AP and cranio–caudal (CC) directions.ResultsDuring swallowing, the mean amplitude of motion measured was 9.4 mm (0.9–18.5) and 4.1 mm (0.6–11.4) in AP view in the CC and lateral direction, respectively; and 8.6 mm (0.5–16.5) and 7.6 mm (0.9–14.5) in lateral view in the CC and AP direction, respectively. In the non-swallowing period the motion was 1.5 mm (0.3–3.2) and 1 mm (0.4–3.6) in AP view in the CC and lateral direction, respectively; and 1.3 mm (0.4–3.1) and 1.3 mm (0.4–3.4) in lateral view in the CC and AP direction, respectively. This motion was believed to be due to breathing.ConclusionIf swallowing can be suppressed during CT acquisition, the contribution to the internal margin for this motion is negligible. Breathing related motion is also believed to be of limited clinical relevance in current practice. However, it might become of importance in future, with further reduction of margins.