What is the reference dose rate (RDR) in the Paris system of symmetry?

The reference dose rate (RDR) in the Paris system of symmetry is defined as 85% of the mean basal dose rate. This system is utilized to standardize treatment planning and ensure consistency in radiotherapy dose distribution. The choice of 85% is significant because it provides a balanced dose that is high enough to achieve the desired therapeutic effects while minimizing the risk of over-dosage that could lead to excessive side effects in surrounding tissues.

By establishing RDR at 85% of the mean basal dose, clinicians can effectively assess and compare various treatment plans, ensuring that all plans stay within the framework of this established standard. The choice reflects a consensus in the field on optimizing treatment outcomes while adhering to safety protocols. This percentage serves an essential function in treatment planning, particularly when it comes to accommodating deviations in tissue responses and anatomical variations among different patients.