[A concept for the optimization of clinical IMRT].

The present paper introduces a concept for the description of treatment objectives of IMRT which emphasizes the assurance of an acceptable dose distribution in risk organs. A number of DVH manipulation tools are available to take into account both the volume effects of normal tissue and the influence of dose fractionation. The optimization of the dose distribution strictly obeys the prescribed risks of complications, as well as the limits of dose homogeneity in the target volume. The application of IMRT is made more efficient by limiting the modulation of the fluence profiles. The use of this algorithm could simplify IMRT in a way that a larger number of patients can profit from this type of treatment.