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Herchko SM, Rutenberg MS, Beltran CJ, Yaddanapudi S. Technical note: A comparison of in-house 3D-printed and commercially available patient-specific skin collimators for use with electron beam therapy. J Appl Clin Med Phys 2024; 25:e14366. [PMID: 38669190 PMCID: PMC11087155 DOI: 10.1002/acm2.14366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Skin collimation is a useful tool in electron beam therapy (EBT) to decrease the penumbra at the field edge and minimize dose to nearby superficial organs at risk (OARs), but manually fabricating these collimation devices in the clinic to conform to the patient's anatomy can be a difficult and time intensive process. This work compares two types of patient-specific skin collimation (in-house 3D printed and vendor-provided machined brass) using clinically relevant metrics. METHODS Attenuation measurements were performed to determine the thickness of each material needed to adequately shield both 6 and 9 MeV electron beams. Relative and absolute dose planes at various depths were measured using radiochromic film to compare the surface dose, flatness, and penumbra of the different skin collimation materials. RESULTS Clinically acceptable thicknesses of each material were determined for both 6 and 9 MeV electron beams. Field width, flatness, and penumbra results between the two systems were very similar and significantly improved compared to measurements performed with no surface collimation. CONCLUSION Both skin collimation methods investigated in this work generate sharp penumbras at the field edge and can minimize dose to superficial OARs compared to treatment fields with no surface collimation. The benefits of skin collimation are greatest for lower energy electron beams, and the benefits decrease as the measurement depth increases. Using bolus with skin collimation is recommended to avoid surface dose enhancement seen with collimators placed on the skin surface. Ultimately, the appropriate choice of material will depend on the desire to create these devices in-house or outsource the fabrication to a vendor.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Chris J. Beltran
- Department of Radiation OncologyMayo ClinicJacksonvilleFloridaUSA
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Poltorak M, Banatkiewicz P, Poltorak L, Sobolewski P, Zimon D, Szwast M, Walecka I. Brachytherapy and 3D printing for skin cancer: A review paper. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2024; 16:156-169. [PMID: 38808207 PMCID: PMC11129648 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2024.137357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Brachytherapy is a type of radiation therapy, in which a radiation source is placed directly or close to a tumor. It is commonly used to treat skin cancer, and enables precise irradiation treatment of affected area (planning target volume - PTV) while minimizing exposure dose to surrounding healthy tissue (organs at risk - OARs). Recently, the use of 3D printing has begun revolutionizing brachytherapy, as it allows manufacturing of custom-designed applicators for unique shape of skin topography, tumor, and surrounding tissues. Outcome of the combination of 3D printing and brachytherapy has several advantages over traditional treatment planning methods. Some of the advantages are intuitive, whereas others can be concluded from a literature overview as follows: 1) Possibility of developing patient-specific applicators that precisely match the shape of tumor area; 2) Reduction of the time required for applicator production, especially when custom-made devices are needed; 3) Reduction of manufacturing costs; 4) Treatment procedures improvement; 5) Improvement of safety measures accelerated by the development of smart materials (e.g., polymer filaments with admixture of heavy elements); 6) Possibility of nearly instant adjustment into tumor treatment (applicators can be changed as the tumor is changing its shape); and 7) Applicators designed to securely fit to treatment area to hold radioactive source always in the same place for each fraction. Consequently, tumor-provided dose is accurate and leads to effective treatment. In this review paper, we investigated the current state-of-the-art of the application of 3D printing in brachytherapy. A number of existing reports were chosen and reviewed in terms of printing technology, materials used, treatment effectiveness, and fabrication protocols. Furthermore, the development of future directions that should be considered by collaborative teams bridging different fields of science, such as medicine, physics, chemistry, and material science were summarized. With the indicated topics, we hope to stimulate the innovative progress of 3D printing technology in brachytherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Poltorak
- The National Institute of Medicine of the Ministry of the Interior and Administration, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Pawel Banatkiewicz
- The National Institute of Medicine of the Ministry of the Interior and Administration, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Lukasz Poltorak
- Electrochemistry@Soft Interfaces Team, Department of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Piotr Sobolewski
- The National Institute of Medicine of the Ministry of the Interior and Administration, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Dermatology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Damian Zimon
- The National Institute of Medicine of the Ministry of the Interior and Administration, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Dermatology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Szwast
- Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, Warsaw University of Technology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Irena Walecka
- The National Institute of Medicine of the Ministry of the Interior and Administration, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Dermatology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
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Schulz JB, Dubrowski P, Gibson C, Yu AS, Skinner LB. A clinical solution for non-toxic 3D-printed photon blocks in external beam radiation therapy. J Appl Clin Med Phys 2024; 25:e14225. [PMID: 38213084 DOI: 10.1002/acm2.14225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE A well-known limitation of multi-leaf collimators is that they cannot easily form island blocks. This can be important in mantle region therapy. Cerrobend photon blocks, currently used for supplementary shielding, are labor-intensive and error-prone. To address this, an innovative, non-toxic, automatically manufactured photon block using 3D-printing technology is proposed, offering a patient-specific and accurate alternative. METHODS AND MATERIALS The study investigates the development of patient-specific photon shielding blocks using 3D-printing for three different patient cases. A 3D-printed photon block shell filled with tungsten ball bearings (BBs) was designed to have similar dosimetric properties to Cerrobend standards. The generation of the blocks was automated using the Eclipse Scripting API and Python. Quality assurance was performed by comparing the expected and actual weight of the tungsten BBs used for shielding. Dosimetric and field geometry comparisons were conducted between 3D-printed and Cerrobend blocks, utilizing ionization chambers, imaging, and field geometry analysis. RESULTS The quality assurance assessment revealed a -1.3% average difference in the mass of tungsten ball bearings for different patients. Relative dose output measurements for three patient-specific blocks in the blocked region agreed within 2% of each other. Against the Treatment Planning System (TPS), both 3D-printed and Cerrobend blocks agreed within 2%. For each patient, 6 MV image profiles taken through the 3D-printed and Cerrobend blocks agreed within 1% outside high gradient regions. Jaccard distance analysis of the MV images against the TPS planned images, found Cerrobend blocks to have 15.7% dissimilarity to the TPS, while that of the 3D-printed blocks was 6.7%. CONCLUSIONS This study validates a novel, efficient 3D-printing method for photon block creation in clinical settings. Despite potential limitations, the benefits include reduced manual labor, automated processes, and greater precision. It holds potential for widespread adoption in radiation therapy, furthering non-toxic radiation shielding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph B Schulz
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Piotr Dubrowski
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Clinton Gibson
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Amy S Yu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
| | - Lawrie Basil Skinner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, California, USA
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Szewczyk C, Liao Y, Al-Khudari S, Jelinek MJ, Tatebe K. A Novel Immobilization Method for the Treatment of Head and Neck Cancer Using 3D Printing. Pract Radiat Oncol 2024; 14:20-23. [PMID: 37751796 DOI: 10.1016/j.prro.2023.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Proper immobilization is critical for the delivery of high-quality radiation therapy. In cases when traditional immobilization is not feasible, 3-dimensional (3D) printing may provide a better-tolerated custom immobilization that is comparably effective. We present the successful treatment of a patient with inoperable oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma who was unable to tolerate traditional immobilization. To avoid covering the face, we created a 3D-printed cradle for the back of his head and neck. This design enabled the patient to tolerate traditional simulation scans with and without intravenous contrast and was subsequently able to undergo volumetric modulated arc therapy treatment. He successfully underwent treatment without evidence of disease more than 2 years after completion. The effect of 3D printing within the context of radiation oncology, as well as in other specialties, will undoubtedly continue to increase the variety of treatment options available to patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Szewczyk
- Departments of Radiation Oncology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois.
| | - Yixiang Liao
- Departments of Radiation Oncology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Samer Al-Khudari
- Otorhinolaryngology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Michael J Jelinek
- Internal Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Ken Tatebe
- Departments of Radiation Oncology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois; Neurological Surgery, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
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Baltz GC, Kirsner SM. Technical note: Commissioning of a low-cost system for directly 3D printed flexible bolus. J Appl Clin Med Phys 2023; 24:e14206. [PMID: 37962024 PMCID: PMC10691640 DOI: 10.1002/acm2.14206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To present the commissioning process of a low-cost solution for directly 3D printed flexible patient specific bolus. METHODS The 3D printing solution used in this study consisted of a resin stereolithography 3D printer and a flexible curing resin. To test the dimensional accuracy of the 3D printer, rectangular cuboids with varying dimensions were 3D printed and their measured dimensions were compared to the designed dimensions. Percent Depth Dose (PDD) profiles were measured by irradiating film embedded in a 3D printed phantom made of the flexible material. A CT of the phantom was acquired and used to replicate the irradiation setup in the treatment planning system. PDDs were calculated for both the native HU of the phantom, and with the phantom HU overridden to 300 HU to match its physical density. Dosimetric agreement was characterized by comparing calculated to measured depths of R90, R80, and R50. Upon completion of the commissioning process, a bolus was 3D printed for a clinical case study for treatment of the nose. RESULTS Dimensional accuracy of the printer and material combination was found to be good, with all measured dimensions of test cuboids within 0.5 mm of designed. PDD measurements demonstrated the best dosimetric agreement when the material was overridden to 300 HU, corresponding to the measured physical density of the material of 1.18 g/cc. Calculated and measured depths of R90, R80, and R50 all agreed within 1 mm. The bolus printed for the clinical case was free from defects, highly conformal, and led to a clinically acceptable plan. CONCLUSION The results of the commissioning measurements performed indicate that the 3D printer and material solution are suitable for clinical use. The 3D printer and material combination can provide a low-cost solution a clinic can implement in-house to directly 3D print flexible bolus.
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Mao Z, Zhao H. 3D-printed vaginal cylindrical template with curved needle channels in MRI-guided vaginal cuff brachytherapy. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2023; 15:422-431. [PMID: 38230399 PMCID: PMC10789162 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2023.133227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose To present a new technique for the treatment of vaginal cuff recurrences using 3D-printed vaginal cylindrical template (3D-PVCT) with curved needle channels in brachytherapy. Material and methods Two patients with vaginal cuff tumor treated with external beam radiotherapy and MRI-guided interstitial brachytherapy were selected for the present study. Prior to treatment, a vaginal cylinder with the same size as 3D-PVCT was inserted into the vagina. Magnetic resonance scan was performed to identify target volumes and organs at risk (OARs). By registration techniques, the implantation angle was determined, appropriate needle channels were selected, and the depth of each needle position was recorded. During the actual treatment, patients were under general anesthesia, and real-time guidance of trans-rectal ultrasound was applied referring to a pre-determined treatment plan. Results For patient No. 1, 9 needles were inserted into the tumor, with 4 curved needle channels and 5 straight channels. For patient No. 2, 7 needles were inserted into the vaginal cuff tumor, with 6 curved needle channels and 1 straight channel. Doses delivered to volumes of targets and OARs for both patients met the EMBRACE II dose constraints. After follow-up of 15 and 18 months, respectively, both patients showed complete response, with no evidence of tumor recurrence. No significant acute or late toxicities were reported. Conclusions With careful pre-planning, 3D-PVCT provides good target coverage and sparing of OARs. The results from these two patients indicate that this approach is very promising due to its flexibility and potential widespread application in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuang Mao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun City, PR China
| | - Hongfu Zhao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun City, PR China
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Crowe S, Maxwell S, Brar H, Yu L, Kairn T. Use of light-weight foaming polylactic acid as a lung-equivalent material in 3D printed phantoms. Phys Eng Sci Med 2023; 46:1811-1817. [PMID: 37672196 DOI: 10.1007/s13246-023-01318-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
The 3D printing of lung-equivalent phantoms using conventional polylactic acid (PLA) filaments requires the use of low in-fill printing densities, which can produce substantial density heterogeneities from the air gaps within the resulting prints. Light-weight foaming PLA filaments produce microscopic air bubbles when heated to 3D printing temperatures. In this study, the expansion of foaming PLA filament was characterised for two 3D printers with different nozzle diameters, in order to optimise the printing flow rates required to achieve a low density print when printed at 100% in-fill printing density, without noticeable internal air gaps. Effective densities as low as 0.28 g cm- 3 were shown to be achievable with only microscopic air gaps. Light-weight foaming PLA filaments are a cost-effective method for achieving homogeneous lung-equivalency in 3D printed phantoms for use in radiotherapy imaging and dosimetry, featuring smaller air gaps than required to achieve low densities with conventional PLA filaments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott Crowe
- Cancer Care Services, Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
- Herston Biofabrication Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
- School of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
- School of Chemistry and Physics, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.
| | - Sarah Maxwell
- Cancer Care Services, Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Harsimran Brar
- School of Chemistry and Physics, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Liting Yu
- Cancer Care Services, Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Chemistry and Physics, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Tanya Kairn
- Cancer Care Services, Royal Brisbane & Women's Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Herston Biofabrication Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- School of Chemistry and Physics, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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Oliver S, Giménez-Alventosa V, Berumen F, Gimenez V, Beaulieu L, Ballester F, Vijande J. Benchmark of the PenRed Monte Carlo framework for HDR brachytherapy. Z Med Phys 2023; 33:511-528. [PMID: 36509574 PMCID: PMC10751717 DOI: 10.1016/j.zemedi.2022.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study is to validate the PenRed Monte Carlo framework for clinical applications in brachytherapy. PenRed is a C++ version of Penelope Monte Carlo code with additional tallies and utilities. METHODS AND MATERIALS Six benchmarking scenarios are explored to validate the use of PenRed and its improved bachytherapy-oriented capabilities for HDR brachytherapy. A new tally allowing the evaluation of collisional kerma for any material using the track length kerma estimator and the possibility to obtain the seed positions, weights and directions processing directly the DICOM file are now implemented in the PenRed distribution. The four non-clinical test cases developed by the Joint AAPM-ESTRO-ABG-ABS WG-DCAB were evaluated by comparing local and global absorbed dose differences with respect to established reference datasets. A prostate and a palliative lung cases, were also studied. For them, absorbed dose ratios, global absorbed dose differences, and cumulative dose-volume histograms were obtained and discussed. RESULTS The air-kerma strength and the dose rate constant corresponding to the two sources agree with the reference datatests within 0.3% (Sk) and 0.1% (Λ). With respect to the first three WG-DCAB test cases, more than 99.8% of the voxels present local (global) differences within ±1%(±0.1%) of the reference datasets. For test Case 4 reference dataset, more than 94.9%(97.5%) of voxels show an agreement within ±1%(±0.1%), better than similar benchmarking calculations in the literature. The track length kerma estimator scorer implemented increases the numerical efficiency of brachytherapy calculations two orders of magnitude, while the specific brachytherapy source allows the user to avoid the use of error-prone intermediate steps to translate the DICOM information into the simulation. In both clinical cases, only minor absorbed dose differences arise in the low-dose isodoses. 99.8% and 100% of the voxels have a global absorbed dose difference ratio within ±0.2% for the prostate and lung cases, respectively. The role played by the different segmentation and composition material in the bone structures was discussed, obtaining negligible absorbed dose differences. Dose-volume histograms were in agreement with the reference data. CONCLUSIONS PenRed incorporates new tallies and utilities and has been validated for its use for detailed and precise high-dose-rate brachytherapy simulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Oliver
- Instituto de Seguridad Industrial, Radiofísica y Medioambiental (ISIRYM), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camí de Vera s/n, 46022 València, Spain.
| | - Vicent Giménez-Alventosa
- Escuela de Ciencias, Ingeniería y Diseño, Universidad Europea de Valencia, Paseo de la Alameda 7, 46010 València, Spain; Instituto de Instrumentación para Imagen Molecular (I3M), Centro mixto CSIC - Universitat Politècnica de València, Camí de Vera s/n, 46022 València, Spain
| | - Francisco Berumen
- Département de Radio-Oncologie et Axe oncologie du Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, CHU de Québec, Québec, QC, Canada; Département de Physique, de Génie Physique et d'Optique et Centre de Recherche sur le Cancer, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Vicente Gimenez
- Departament de Física Teórica and IFIC, Universitat de València-CSIC, Dr. Moliner, 50, 46100 Burjassot, València, Spain
| | - Luc Beaulieu
- Département de Radio-Oncologie et Axe oncologie du Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, CHU de Québec, Québec, QC, Canada; Département de Physique, de Génie Physique et d'Optique et Centre de Recherche sur le Cancer, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada
| | - Facundo Ballester
- Departamento de Física Atómica, Molecular y Nuclear. IRIMED, IIS-La Fe-Universitat de Valencia, 46100 Burjassot, Spain
| | - Javier Vijande
- Departamento de Física Atómica, Molecular y Nuclear. IRIMED, IIS-La Fe-Universitat de Valencia, 46100 Burjassot, Spain; Instituto de Física Corpuscular, IFIC (UV-CSIC), 46100 Burjassot, Spain
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Ashenafi M, Jeong S, Wancura JN, Gou L, Webster MJ, Zheng D. A quick guide on implementing and quality assuring 3D printing in radiation oncology. J Appl Clin Med Phys 2023; 24:e14102. [PMID: 37501315 PMCID: PMC10647979 DOI: 10.1002/acm2.14102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
As three-dimensional (3D) printing becomes increasingly common in radiation oncology, proper implementation, usage, and ongoing quality assurance (QA) are essential. While there have been many reports on various clinical investigations and several review articles, there is a lack of literature on the general considerations of implementing 3D printing in radiation oncology departments, including comprehensive process establishment and proper ongoing QA. This review aims to guide radiation oncology departments in effectively using 3D printing technology for routine clinical applications and future developments. We attempt to provide recommendations on 3D printing equipment, software, workflow, and QA, based on existing literature and our experience. Specifically, we focus on three main applications: patient-specific bolus, high-dose-rate (HDR) surface brachytherapy applicators, and phantoms. Additionally, cost considerations are briefly discussed. This review focuses on point-of-care (POC) printing in house, and briefly touches on outsourcing printing via mail-order services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Ashenafi
- Department of Radiation OncologyUniversity of Rochester Medical CenterRochesterNew YorkUSA
| | - Seungkyo Jeong
- Department of Applied MathematicsUniversity of RochesterRochesterNew YorkUSA
| | - Joshua N. Wancura
- Department of Radiation OncologyUniversity of Rochester Medical CenterRochesterNew YorkUSA
| | - Lang Gou
- Department of Radiation OncologyUniversity of Rochester Medical CenterRochesterNew YorkUSA
| | - Matthew J. Webster
- Department of Radiation OncologyUniversity of Rochester Medical CenterRochesterNew YorkUSA
| | - Dandan Zheng
- Department of Radiation OncologyUniversity of Rochester Medical CenterRochesterNew YorkUSA
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Segedin B, Kobav M, Zobec Logar HB. The Use of 3D Printing Technology in Gynaecological Brachytherapy-A Narrative Review. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:4165. [PMID: 37627193 PMCID: PMC10452889 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15164165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Radiation therapy, including image-guided adaptive brachytherapy based on magnetic resonance imaging, is the standard of care in locally advanced cervical and vaginal cancer and part of the treatment in other primary and recurrent gynaecological tumours. Tumour control probability increases with dose and brachytherapy is the optimal technique to increase the dose to the target volume while maintaining dose constraints to organs at risk. The use of interstitial needles is now one of the quality indicators for cervical cancer brachytherapy and needles should optimally be used in ≥60% of patients. Commercially available applicators sometimes cannot be used because of anatomical barriers or do not allow adequate target volume coverage due to tumour size or topography. Over the last five to ten years, 3D printing has been increasingly used for manufacturing of customised applicators in brachytherapy, with gynaecological tumours being the most common indication. We present the rationale, techniques and current clinical evidence for the use of 3D-printed applicators in gynaecological brachytherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Segedin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (M.K.); (H.B.Z.L.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Manja Kobav
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (M.K.); (H.B.Z.L.)
| | - Helena Barbara Zobec Logar
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (M.K.); (H.B.Z.L.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Schulz JB, Gibson C, Dubrowski P, Marquez CM, Million L, Qian Y, Skinner L, Yu AS. Shaping success: clinical implementation of a 3D-printed electron cutout program in external beam radiation therapy. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1237037. [PMID: 37621682 PMCID: PMC10445153 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1237037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose The integration of 3D-printing technology into radiation therapy (RT) has allowed for a novel method to develop personalized electron field-shaping blocks with improved accuracy. By obviating the need for handling highly toxic Cerrobend molds, the clinical workflow is significantly streamlined. This study aims to expound upon the clinical workflow of 3D-printed electron cutouts in RT and furnish one year of in-vivo dosimetry data. Methods and materials 3D-printed electron cutouts for 6x6 cm, 10x10 cm, and 15x15 cm electron applicators were designed and implemented into the clinical workflow after dosimetric commissioning to ensure congruence with the Cerrobend cutouts. The clinical workflow consisted of four parts: i) the cutout aperture was extracted from the treatment planning system (TPS). A 3D printable cutout was then generated automatically through custom scripts; ii) the cutout was 3D-printed with PLA filament, filled with tungsten ball bearings, and underwent quality assurance (QA) to verify density and dosimetry; iii) in-vivo dosimetry was performed with optically stimulated luminescence dosimeters (OSLDs) for a patient's first treatment and compared to the calculated dose in the TPS; iv) after treatment completion, the 3D-printed cutout was recycled. Results QA and in-vivo OSLD measurements were conducted (n=40). The electron cutouts produced were 6x6 cm (n=3), 10x10 cm (n=30), and 15x15 cm (n=7). The expected weight of the cutouts differed from the measured weight by 0.4 + 1.1%. The skin dose measured with the OSLDs was compared to the skin dose in the TPS on the central axis. The difference between the measured and TPS doses was 4.0 + 5.2%. Conclusion The successful clinical implementation of 3D-printed cutouts reduced labor, costs, and removed the use of toxic materials in the workplace while meeting clinical dosimetric standards.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Amy S. Yu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States
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Dąbrowska-Szewczyk E, Zawadzka A, Kowalczyk P, Podgórski R, Saworska G, Głowacki M, Kukołowicz P, Brzozowska B. Low-density 3D-printed boluses with honeycomb infill 3D-printed boluses in radiotherapy. Phys Med 2023; 110:102600. [PMID: 37167778 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmp.2023.102600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Dosimetric characteristics of 3D-printed plates using different infill percentage and materials was the purpose of our study. METHODS Test plates with 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% honeycomb structure infill were fabricated using TPU and PLA polymers. The Hounsfield unit distribution was determined using a Python script. Percentage Depth Dose (PDD) distribution in the build-up region was measured with the Markus plane-parallel ionization chamber for an open 10x10 cm2 field of 6 MV. PDD was measured at a depth of 1 mm, 5 mm, 10 mm and 15 mm. Measurements were compared with Eclipse treatment planning system calculations using AAA and Acuros XB algorithms. RESULTS The mean HU for CT scans of 3D-printed TPU plates increased with percentage infill increase from -739 HU for 5% to -399 HU for 20%. Differences between the average HU for TPU and PLA did not exceed 2% for all percentage infills. Even using a plate with the lowest infill PDD at 1 mm depth increase from 44.7% (without a plate) to 76.9% for TPU and 76.6% for PLA. Infill percentage did not affect the dose at depths greater than 5 mm. Differences between measurements and TPS calculations were less than 4.1% for both materials, regardless of the infill percentage and depth. CONCLUSIONS The use of 3D-printed light boluses increases the dose in the build-up region, which was shown based on the dosimetric measurements and TPS calculations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edyta Dąbrowska-Szewczyk
- Biomedical Physics Division, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 5 L. Pasteur Street, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland; Medical Physics Department, The Maria Skłodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology in Warsaw, 5 WK Roentgen Street, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Zawadzka
- Medical Physics Department, The Maria Skłodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology in Warsaw, 5 WK Roentgen Street, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Kowalczyk
- Warsaw University of Technology, Faculty of Chemical and Process Engineering, Department of Biotechnology and Bioprocess Engineering, Waryńskiego 1, 00-645 Warsaw, Poland; Centre of Advanced Materials and Technologies CEZAMAT, Poleczki 19, 02-822 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Rafał Podgórski
- Warsaw University of Technology, Faculty of Chemical and Process Engineering, Department of Biotechnology and Bioprocess Engineering, Waryńskiego 1, 00-645 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Gabriela Saworska
- Biomedical Physics Division, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 5 L. Pasteur Street, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maksymilian Głowacki
- Biomedical Physics Division, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 5 L. Pasteur Street, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Paweł Kukołowicz
- Medical Physics Department, The Maria Skłodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology in Warsaw, 5 WK Roentgen Street, 02-781 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Beata Brzozowska
- Biomedical Physics Division, Faculty of Physics, University of Warsaw, 5 L. Pasteur Street, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland.
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13
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Ehler ED. Clinical experience in the use of 3D printing as a rapid replacement of traditional radiation therapy immobilization materials. J Appl Clin Med Phys 2023:e14008. [PMID: 37128743 PMCID: PMC10402670 DOI: 10.1002/acm2.14008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Patient positioning and immobilization devices are commonly employed in radiation therapy. Unfortunately, cases can arise where the devices need to be reconstructed or improved. This work describes clinical processes to use a planning CT, to design and 3D print immobilization devices for reproducible patient positioning within a clinically feasible time frame when traditional methods can no longer be used or are insufficient. MATERIALS/METHODS Three clinical cases required rapid 3D printing of an immobilization device mid-treatment due to the following: (1) a lost headrest cushion, (2) needed improvement in lumbar spine positioning, and (3) a partially deflated vacuum immobilization mattress. RESULTS In the three cases, the 3D printed immobilization devices were clinically implemented successfully; two of the devices were fully designed and printed in 1 day. The 3D printed immobilization devices achieved a positioning accuracy sufficient to avoid the necessity to repeat the simulation and planning process. CONCLUSION If traditional immobilization devices fail or are misplaced, it is feasible to have a 3D printed replacement within the time span of 1 day. The design and fabrication methods, as well as the experiences gained, are described in detail to assist clinicians to implement 3D printing for similar situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric D Ehler
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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14
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Lynch N, Robar JL, Monajemi T. Camera-based radiotherapy dosimetry using dual-material 3D printed scintillator arrays. Med Phys 2023; 50:1824-1842. [PMID: 36546558 DOI: 10.1002/mp.16167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVE To describe a methodology for the dual-material fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing of plastic scintillator arrays, to characterize their light output under irradiation using an sCMOS camera, and to establish a methodology for the dosimetric calibration of planar array geometries. MATERIALS AND METHODS We have published an investigation into the fabrication and characterization of single element FDM printed scintillators intending to produce customizable dosimeters for radiation therapy applications. 1 This work builds on previous investigations by extending the concept to the production of a high-resolution (scintillating element size 3 × 3 × 3 mm3 ) planar scintillator array. The array was fabricated using a BCN3D Epsilon W27 3D printer and composed of polylactic acid (PLA) filament and BCF-10 plastic scintillator. The array's response was initially characterized using a 20 × 20 cm2 6 MV photon field with a source-to-surface (SSD) distance of 100 cm and the beam incident on the top of the array. The light signals emitted under irradiation were imaged using 200 ms exposures from a sCMOS camera positioned at the foot of the treatment couch (210 cm from the array). The collected images were then processed using a purpose-built software to correct known optical artefacts and determine the light output for each scintillating element. The light output was then corrected for element sensitivity and calibrated to dose using Monte Carlo simulations of the array and irradiation geometry based on the array's digital 3D print model. To assess the accuracy of the array calibration both a 3D beam and a clinical VMAT plan were delivered. Dose measurements using the calibrated array were then compared to EBT3 GAFChromic film and OSLD measurements, as well as Monte Carlo simulations and TPS calculations. RESULTS Our results establish the feasibility of dual-material 3D printing for the fabrication of custom plastic scintillator arrays. Assessment of the 3D printed scintillators response across each row of the array demonstrated a nonuniform response with an average percentage deviation from the mean of 2.1% ± 2.8%. This remains consistent with our previous work on individual 3D printed scintillators which showed an average difference of 2.3% and a maximum of 4.0% between identically printed scintillators.1 Array dose measurements performed following calibration indicate difficulty in differentiating the scintillator response from ambient background light contamination at low doses (<20-25 cGy) and dose rates (≤100 MU/min). However, when analysis was restricted to exclude dose values less than 10% of the Monte Carlo simulated max dose the average absolute percentage dose difference between Monte Carlo simulation and array measurement was 5.3% ± 4.8% for the fixed beam delivery and 5.4% ± 5.2% for the VMAT delivery CONCLUSION: In this study, we developed and characterized a 3D printed array of plastic scintillators and demonstrated a methodology for the dosimetric calibration of a simple array geometry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Lynch
- Department of Physics and Atmospheric Science, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - James L Robar
- Department of Physics and Atmospheric Science, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Medical Physics, Nova Scotia Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Thalat Monajemi
- Department of Physics and Atmospheric Science, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Medical Physics, Nova Scotia Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
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15
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Zhang B, Zhang S, Sun L, Wu Y, Yang Y. Characteristics of preplan-based three-dimensional individual template-guided brachytherapy compared to freehand implantation. J Appl Clin Med Phys 2023; 24:e13840. [PMID: 36350283 PMCID: PMC10018671 DOI: 10.1002/acm2.13840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Image-guided adaptive intracavitary/interstitial brachytherapy (IC/IS IGABT) has exhibited superior dosimetry advantage and local control for locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC). Our group designed a type of cylindrical three-dimensional (3D) printed vaginal template combining an intracavitary applicator with straight and oblique interstitial needles according to the preplan on computed tomography images. This work aimed to research the consistency of the preplan with the treatment plan at every fraction to verify the practical guiding significance of the preplan. We also investigated the difference between 3D-printed template-guided implantation compared with freehand implantation for LACC. Twenty-six patients were treated with 3D-printed individual templates (3D template group), and 20 patients were treated by using freehand insertion (freehand group). Patients in the 3D template group would take a preplan one week before treatment to design and print the individual template, while the freehand group did not. All patients accepted volumetric rotational intensity-modulated radiotherapy at a dose of 49.4 Gy in 26 fractions and subsequent brachytherapy at a dose of 26 Gy in four fractions. All analyses were performed by utilizing SPSS 26. The insertion depth was decreased in fractions 1 and 4 compared with the preplan. None of the dose volume histogram parameters of fractions 1-3, nor the D2cc of bladder and bowel at fraction 4 were barely changed compared with the preplan. The D90 and D98 of the high-risk clinical target volume in the 3D template group were statistically higher than those in the freehand group (p < 0.01). The D2cc of the rectum, bladder, bowel, and sigmoid in the 3D template group were all lower than those in the freehand group (p < 0.01). The preplan in this research is consistent with treatment plans, which is important to ensure the feasibility of applying a 3D-printed template in brachytherapy. The 3D-printed individual guidance template was an effective method in brachytherapy for locally advanced cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Zhang
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, China
| | - Siyu Zhang
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, China
| | - Li Sun
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, China
| | - Yaqin Wu
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, China
| | - Yongqin Yang
- Jiangsu Cancer Hospital, The Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu Institute of Cancer Research, Nanjing, China
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16
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Albantow CE, Brown SJ. Three-dimensional printer use in the Australian and New Zealand radiation therapy setting. J Med Radiat Sci 2022; 69:492-501. [PMID: 36097141 DOI: 10.1002/jmrs.613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This cross-sectional survey aimed to collect data from radiation therapy departments around Australia and New Zealand to establish a baseline of 3D printer and product use. METHODS Each department in Australia and New Zealand was contacted to determine the most appropriate person to answer the survey. A Microsoft Forms link to the survey was sent to the individual. The survey contained 47 questions in relation to what 3D printing device departments had (if any), how it was being utilised, and what 3D printed products were in use. RESULTS A total of 112 departments completed the survey (100% response rate), with 22.3% reporting 3D printer ownership, and thirty-four departments (30.4%) outsourcing 3D printed products. The primary use of 3D printers was bolus production (60.9%). Public departments represented 84% of printer ownership, while private departments were the greatest users of outsourced 3D printed products (91.4%). 3D Slicer was the most common software used for Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) file conversion (42.3%), while polylactic acid (PLA) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) were the most common filaments in use, 46% and 14%, respectively. CONCLUSION This research established a baseline for 3D printer and product use within the Australian and New Zealand radiotherapy setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine E Albantow
- Crown Princess Mary Cancer Centre, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
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17
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Robar JL, Kammerzell B, Hulick K, Kaiser P, Young C, Verzwyvelt V, Cheng X, Shepherd M, Orbovic R, Fedullo S, Majcher C, DiMarco S, Stasiak J. Novel multi jet fusion 3D-printed patient immobilization for radiation therapy. J Appl Clin Med Phys 2022; 23:e13773. [PMID: 36052990 DOI: 10.1002/acm2.13773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2021] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Thermoplastic immobilizers are used routinely in radiation therapy to achieve positioning accuracy. These devices are variable in quality as they are dependent on the skill of the human fabricator. We examine the potential multi jet fusion (MJF) 3D printing for the production immobilizers with a focus on the surface dosimetry of several MJF-printed PA12-based material candidates. Materials are compared with the goal of minimizing surface dose with comparison to standard thermoplastic. We introduce a novel metamaterial design for the shell of the immobilizer, with the aims of mechanical robustness and low-dose buildup. We demonstrate first examples of adult and pediatric cranial and head-and-neck immobilizers. METHODS Three different PA12 materials were examined and compared to fused deposition modeling-printed polylactic acid (PLA), PLA with density lowered by adding hollow glass microspheres, and to perforated or perforated/stretched and solid status quo thermoplastic samples. Build-up dose measurements were made using a parallel plate chamber. A metamaterial design was established based on a packed hexagonal geometry. Radiochromic film dosimetry was performed to determine the dependence of surface dose on the metamaterial design. Full cranial and head-and-neck prototype immobilizers were designed, printed, and assessed with regard to dimensional accuracy. RESULTS Build-up dose measurements demonstrated the superiority of the PA12 material with a light fusing agent, which yielded a ∼15% dose reduction compared to other MJF materials. Metamaterial samples provided dose reductions ranging from 11% to 40% compared to stretched thermoplastic. MJF-printed immobilizers were produced reliably, demonstrated the versatility of digital design, and showed dimensional accuracy with 97% of sampled points within ±2 mm. CONCLUSIONS MJF is a promising technology for an automated fabrication of patient immobilizers. Material selection and metamaterial design can be leveraged to yield surface dose reduction of up to 40%. Immobilizer design is highly customizable, and the first examples of MJF-printed immobilizers demonstrate excellent dimensional accuracy.
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Affiliation(s)
- James L Robar
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.,Nova Scotia Health, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.,Adaptiiv Medical Technologies, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | | | - Kevin Hulick
- HP, Vancouver, Washington, USA.,HP, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
| | - Pierre Kaiser
- HP, Vancouver, Washington, USA.,HP, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
| | - Calvin Young
- HP, Vancouver, Washington, USA.,HP, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
| | | | - Xin Cheng
- HP, Vancouver, Washington, USA.,HP, Corvallis, Oregon, USA
| | | | | | - Sara Fedullo
- Adaptiiv Medical Technologies, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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18
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Simpson-Page E, Coogan P, Kron T, Lowther N, Murray R, Noble C, Smith I, Wilks R, Crowe SB. Webinar and survey on quality management principles within the Australian and New Zealand ACPSEM Workforce. Phys Eng Sci Med 2022; 45:679-685. [PMID: 35834171 DOI: 10.1007/s13246-022-01160-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Healthcare relies upon the accurate and safe delivery of patient care. This is only achievable when systems are developed to ensure high quality, robust outcomes, for instance quality management systems. The concept of quality management can take on a different meaning depending on the context in which it is found. To add complication, the amount of education required for quality management will vary depending on one's exposure to the implementation of quality systems. In part to address these issues, the Australasian College of Physical Scientists and Engineers in Medicine (ACPSEM) Queensland Branch held a quality management webinar for members and non-members across Australia and New Zealand. The purpose of the webinar was to educate and facilitate discussion regarding the application of quality management principles for the ACPSEM profession. In conjunction, a pre- and post-webinar survey was conducted to gain an insight into existing knowledge and attitudes within the professions governed by the ACPSEM and students undertaking related studies. This paper authored by the webinar speakers reintroduces the quality management principles that were discussed in webinar, exemplifies the importance of quality management skills within the ACPSEM professions and presents the results of the surveys, promoting the need for more educational resources on quality management tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Simpson-Page
- Cancer Care Services, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Australia.
| | - Paul Coogan
- Q-TRaCE, Department of Nuclear Medicine & Specialised PET Services Queensland, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Tomas Kron
- Physical Sciences Department, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nicholas Lowther
- Wellington Blood & Cancer Centre, Wellington Hospital, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca Murray
- Herston Biofabrication Institute, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Christopher Noble
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Ian Smith
- St. Andrews War Memorial Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Rachael Wilks
- Cancer Care Services, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Australia.,Herston Biofabrication Institute, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, Australia.,School of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Scott B Crowe
- Cancer Care Services, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Brisbane, Australia.,Herston Biofabrication Institute, Metro North Hospital and Health Service, Brisbane, Australia.,School of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.,School of Chemistry and Physics, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
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19
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Pushpavanam K, Dutta S, Inamdar S, Bista T, Sokolowski T, Rapchak A, Sadeghi A, Sapareto S, Rege K. Versatile Detection and Monitoring of Ionizing Radiation Treatment Using Radiation-Responsive Gel Nanosensors. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:14997-15007. [PMID: 35316013 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c01019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Modern radiation therapy workflow involves complex processes intended to maximize the radiation dose delivered to tumors while simultaneously minimizing excess radiation to normal tissues. Safe and accurate delivery of radiation doses is critical to the successful execution of these treatment plans and effective treatment outcomes. Given extensive differences in existing dosimeters, the choice of devices and technologies for detecting biologically relevant doses of radiation has to be made judiciously, taking into account anatomical considerations and modality of treatment (invasive, e.g., interstitial brachytherapy vs noninvasive, e.g., external-beam therapy radiotherapy). Rapid advances in versatile radiation delivery technologies necessitate new detection platforms and devices that are readily adaptable into a multitude of form factors in order to ensure precision and safety in dose delivery. Here, we demonstrate the adaptability of radiation-responsive gel nanosensors as a platform technology for detecting ionizing radiation using three different form factors with an eye toward versatile use in the clinic. In this approach, ionizing radiation results in the reduction of monovalent gold salts leading to the formation of gold nanoparticles within gels formulated in different morphologies including one-dimensional (1D) needles for interstitial brachytherapy, two-dimensional (2D) area inserts for skin brachytherapy, and three-dimensional (3D) volumetric dose distribution in tissue phantoms. The formation of gold nanoparticles can be detected using distinct but complementary modes of readout including optical (visual) and photothermal detection, which further enhances the versatility of this approach. A linear response in the readout was seen as a function of radiation dose, which enabled straightforward calibration of each of these devices for predicting unknown doses of therapeutic relevance. Taken together, these results indicate that the gel nanosensor technology can be used to detect ionizing radiation in different morphologies and using different detection methods for application in treatment planning, delivery, and verification in radiotherapy and in trauma care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karthik Pushpavanam
- Chemical Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, United States
| | - Subhadeep Dutta
- School of Molecular Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, United States
| | - Sahil Inamdar
- Chemical Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, United States
| | - Tomasz Bista
- Banner-MD Anderson Cancer Center, Gilbert, Arizona 85234, United States
| | | | - Alek Rapchak
- Banner-MD Anderson Cancer Center, Gilbert, Arizona 85234, United States
| | - Amir Sadeghi
- Banner-MD Anderson Cancer Center, Gilbert, Arizona 85234, United States
| | - Stephen Sapareto
- Banner-MD Anderson Cancer Center, Gilbert, Arizona 85234, United States
| | - Kaushal Rege
- Chemical Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, United States
- Biological Design Graduate Program, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona 85287, United States
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20
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Maerz M, Treutwein M, Nabo J, Dobler B. Three-dimensional printers applied for the production of beam blocks in total body irradiation treatment. J Appl Clin Med Phys 2022; 23:e13592. [PMID: 35290701 PMCID: PMC9121048 DOI: 10.1002/acm2.13592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Total body irradiation (TBI) in extended source surface distance (SSD) is a common treatment technique before hematopoietic stem cell transplant. The lungs are organs at risk, which often are treated with a lower dose than the whole body. Methods This can be achieved by the application of blocks. Three‐dimensional (3D) printers are a modern tool to be used in the production process of these blocks. Results We demonstrate the applicability of a specific printer and printing material, describe the process, and evaluate the accuracy of the product. Conclusion The blocks and apertures were found to be applicable in clinical routine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Maerz
- Department of Radiotherapy, Regensburg University Medical Center, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Marius Treutwein
- Department of Radiotherapy, Regensburg University Medical Center, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Jan Nabo
- Department for Mathematics and Computer Science, Ostbayerische Technische Hochschule Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - Barbara Dobler
- Department of Radiotherapy, Regensburg University Medical Center, Regensburg, Germany
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21
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The Role of 3D Printing in Planning Complex Medical Procedures and Training of Medical Professionals-Cross-Sectional Multispecialty Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19063331. [PMID: 35329016 PMCID: PMC8953417 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19063331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Medicine is a rapidly-evolving discipline, with progress picking up pace with each passing decade. This constant evolution results in the introduction of new tools and methods, which in turn occasionally leads to paradigm shifts across the affected medical fields. The following review attempts to showcase how 3D printing has begun to reshape and improve processes across various medical specialties and where it has the potential to make a significant impact. The current state-of-the-art, as well as real-life clinical applications of 3D printing, are reflected in the perspectives of specialists practicing in the selected disciplines, with a focus on pre-procedural planning, simulation (rehearsal) of non-routine procedures, and on medical education and training. A review of the latest multidisciplinary literature on the subject offers a general summary of the advances enabled by 3D printing. Numerous advantages and applications were found, such as gaining better insight into patient-specific anatomy, better pre-operative planning, mock simulated surgeries, simulation-based training and education, development of surgical guides and other tools, patient-specific implants, bioprinted organs or structures, and counseling of patients. It was evident that pre-procedural planning and rehearsing of unusual or difficult procedures and training of medical professionals in these procedures are extremely useful and transformative.
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22
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Morcos M, Vogel J, Garcia JR, Gomez-Lobo V, Bartolac S. Treatment of pediatric vaginal rhabdomyosarcoma with the use of a real-time tracked custom applicator. Brachytherapy 2022; 21:291-299. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2021.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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23
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Huang L, Gaballa H, Chang J. Evaluating dosimetric accuracy of the 6 MV calibration on EBT3 film in the use of Ir-192 high dose rate brachytherapy. J Appl Clin Med Phys 2022; 23:e13571. [PMID: 35226398 PMCID: PMC9121041 DOI: 10.1002/acm2.13571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate the dosimetric accuracy of EBT3 film calibrated with a 6 MV beam for high dose rate brachytherapy and propose a novel method for direct film calibration with an Ir‐192 source. Methods The 6 MV calibration was performed in water on a linear accelerator (linac). The Ir‐192 calibration was accomplished by irradiating the film wrapped around a cylinder applicator with an Ir‐192 source. All films were scanned 1‐day post‐irradiation to acquire calibration curves for all three (red, blue, and green) channels. The Ir‐192 calibration films were also used for single‐dose comparison. Moreover, an independent test film under a H.A.M. applicator was irradiated and the 2D dose distribution was obtained separately for each calibration using the red channel data. Gamma analysis and point‐by‐point profile comparison were performed to evaluate the performance of both calibrations. The uncertainty budget for each calibration system was analyzed. Results The red channel had the best performance for both calibration systems in the single‐dose comparison. We found a significant 4.89% difference from the reference for doses <250 cGy using the 6 MV calibration, while the difference was only 0.87% for doses >600 cGy. Gamma analysis of the 2D dose distribution showed the Ir‐192 calibration had a higher passing rate of 91.9% for the 1 mm/2% criterion, compared to 83.5% for the 6 MV calibration. Most failing points were in the low‐dose region (<200 cGy). The point‐by‐point profile comparison reported a discrepancy of 2%–3.6% between the Ir‐192 and 6 MV calibrations in this low‐dose region. The linac‐ and Ir‐192‐based dosimetry systems had an uncertainty of 4.1% (k = 2) and 5.66% (k = 2), respectively. Conclusions Direct calibration of EBT3 films with an Ir‐192 source is feasible and reliable, while the dosimetric accuracy of 6 MV calibration depends on the dose range. The Ir‐192 calibration should be used when the measurement dose range is below 250 cGy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyu Huang
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Center for Advanced Medicine, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
| | - Hani Gaballa
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Center for Advanced Medicine, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA
| | - Jenghwa Chang
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Center for Advanced Medicine, Northwell Health, New Hyde Park, New York, USA.,Department of Radiation Medicine, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, New Hyde Park, New York, USA.,Department of Physics and Astronomy, Hofstra University, Hempstead, New York, USA
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Huynh E, Boyle S, Campbell J, Penney J, Mak RH, Schoenfeld JD, Leeman JE, Williams CL. Technical Note: Toward implementation of MR-guided radiation therapy for Laryngeal cancer with healthy volunteer imaging and a custom MR-CT larynx phantom. Med Phys 2022; 49:1814-1821. [PMID: 35090060 DOI: 10.1002/mp.15472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Internal motion of the larynx can cause normal tissue toxicity and/or tumor underdosage during radiotherapy. MR-guided radiation therapy (MRgRT) provides improved soft-tissue contrast for patient setup, and real-time gating of radiation based on cine imaging of tumor motion, potentially making it an advantageous modality for laryngeal treatments. However, there are potential concerns regarding the small target size, proximity to heterogeneous tissue interfaces in the airway that may cause dosimetric errors in the presence of the magnetic field, and uncertainty about the ability of MR-linear accelerator (MR-Linac) systems to visualize and track laryngeal motion. To date, there have been no reports of the use of MRgRT for laryngeal treatments. METHODS A healthy volunteer was imaged on a ViewRay MRIdian MR-Linac. Organs-at-risk and a laryngeal pseudo target were contoured and used to generate a stereotactic body radiotherapy plan. A custom phantom was created using 3D-printing based on structures delineated on the volunteer images to construct an enclosure containing the target and airway anatomy, with a gap for radiochromic film, and filled with gelatin . The treatment plan was mapped onto the phantom and delivered dose assessed on radiochromic film with global normalization and a 10% dose threshold. A cine MR of the volunteer was acquired to assess the magnitude of larynx motion with speaking and swallowing, and system's ability to gate radiation. RESULTS A clinically acceptable laryngeal treatment plan and larynx phantom that was MR and CT-visible were successfully created. The delivered dose had good agreement with the treatment plan with a gamma passing rate of 96.5% (3%/2mm). The MR-Linac was able to visualize, track, and gate larynx motion. CONCLUSIONS The MRgRT workflow for laryngeal treatments was assessed and performed in preparation for clinical implementation on the MR-Linac, demonstrating that it is feasible to treat laryngeal cancer patients on the MR-Linac. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Huynh
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.,Present address: London Regional Cancer Program, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, N6K 1C2, Canada
| | - Sara Boyle
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Jennifer Campbell
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Jessica Penney
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Raymond H Mak
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Jonathan D Schoenfeld
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Jonathan E Leeman
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Christopher L Williams
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
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Tillery H, Moore M, Gallagher KJ, Taddei PJ, Leuro E, Argento DC, Moffitt GB, Kranz M, Carey M, Heymsfield S, Newhauser WD. Personalized 3D-printed anthropomorphic whole-body phantom irradiated by protons, photons, and neutrons. Biomed Phys Eng Express 2022; 8. [PMID: 35045408 DOI: 10.1088/2057-1976/ac4d04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to confirm the feasibility of three-dimensionally-printed (3D-printed), personalized whole-body anthropomorphic phantoms for radiation dose measurements in a variety of charged and uncharged particle radiation fields. We 3D-printed a personalized whole-body phantom of an adult female with a height of 154.8 cm, mass of 90.7 kg, and body mass index of 37.8 kg/m2. The phantom comprised of a hollow plastic shell filled with water and included a watertight access conduit for positioning dosimeters. It is compatible with a wide variety of radiation dosimeters, including ionization chambers that are suitable for uncharged and charged particles. Its mass was 6.8 kg empty and 98 kg when filled with water. Watertightness and mechanical robustness were confirmed after multiple experiments and transportations between institutions. The phantom was irradiated to the cranium with therapeutic beams of 170-MeV protons, 6-MV photons, and fast neutrons. Radiation absorbed dose was measured from the cranium to the pelvis along the longitudinal central axis of the phantom. The dose measurements were made using established dosimetry protocols and well-characterized instruments. For the therapeutic environments considered in this study, stray radiation from intracranial treatment beams was the lowest for proton therapy, intermediate for photon therapy, and highest for neutron therapy. An illustrative example set of measurements at the location of the thyroid for a square field of 5.3 cm per side resulted in 0.09, 0.59, and 1.93 cGy/Gy from proton, photon, and neutron beams, respectively. In this study, we found that 3D-printed personalized phantoms are feasible, inherently reproducible, and well-suited for therapeutic radiation measurements. The measurement methodologies we developed enabled the direct comparison of radiation exposures from neutron, proton, and photon beam irradiations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hunter Tillery
- Radiation Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 S.W. Sam Jackson Park Road, KPV4, Portland, Oregon, 97239-3098, UNITED STATES
| | - Meagan Moore
- Louisiana State University, 439-B Nicholson Hall, Tower Dr., Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70803-4001, UNITED STATES
| | - Kyle Joseph Gallagher
- Radiation Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 S.W. Sam Jackson Park Road, KPV4, Portland, Oregon, 97239-3098, UNITED STATES
| | - Phillip J Taddei
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First St. SW, Rochester, Minnesota, 55905, UNITED STATES
| | - Eric Leuro
- Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, 1570 N 115th St, Seattle, Washington, 98133, UNITED STATES
| | - David C Argento
- Radiation Oncology, University of Washington School of Medicine, 1959 NE Pacific St, Seattle, Washington, 98195, UNITED STATES
| | - Gregory B Moffitt
- Radiation Oncology, University of Washington School of Medicine, 1959 NE Pacific St, Seattle, Washington, 98195, UNITED STATES
| | - Marissa Kranz
- University of Washington School of Medicine, 1959 NE Pacific St, Seattle, Washington, 98195, UNITED STATES
| | - Margaret Carey
- Louisiana State University, 439-B Nicholson Hall, Tower Dr., Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70803-4001, UNITED STATES
| | - Steven Heymsfield
- Louisiana State University, 439-B Nicholson Hall, Tower Dr., Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70803-4001, UNITED STATES
| | - Wayne David Newhauser
- Louisiana State University, 439-B Nicholson Hall, Tower Dr., Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70803-4001, UNITED STATES
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Ma D, Gao R, Li M, Qiu J. Mechanical and medical imaging properties of 3D-printed materials as tissue equivalent materials. J Appl Clin Med Phys 2021; 23:e13495. [PMID: 34878729 PMCID: PMC8833282 DOI: 10.1002/acm2.13495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Three materials of polylactic acid (PLA), polyamide 12 (PA12), and light curing resin (LCR) were used to construct phantom using 3D printing technology. The mechanical and medical imaging properties of the three materials, such as elastic modulus, density, effective atomic number, X‐ray attenuation coefficient, computed tomography (CT) number, and acoustic properties, were investigated. The results showed that the elastic modulus for PLA was 1.98 × 103 MPa, for PA12 was 848 MPa, for LCR was 1.18×103 MPa, and that of three materials was close to some bones. In the range of 40∼120 kV, the X‐ray attenuation coefficient of three materials decreased with increasing tube voltage. The CT number for PLA, PA12, and LCR was 144, −88, and 312 Hounsfield units at 120 kV tube voltage, respectively. The density and the effective atomic number product (ρ*Zeff) were computed from three materials and decreased in the order of LCR, PLA, and PA12. The acoustic properties of materials were also studied. The speeds of sound of three materials were similar with those of some soft tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Depeng Ma
- Medical Engineering and Technology Center, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian, P. R. China.,Qingdao 3E3D Tech. Co. Ltd., Qingdao, P. R. China
| | - Ronghui Gao
- Health Care Department, Taishan Sanatorium of Shandong, Province, Taian, P. R. China
| | - Minghui Li
- Medical Engineering and Technology Center, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian, P. R. China
| | - Jianfeng Qiu
- Medical Engineering and Technology Center, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian, P. R. China.,Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Ji'nan, P. R. China.,Qingdao 3E3D Tech. Co. Ltd., Qingdao, P. R. China
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27
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Song WY, Robar JL, Morén B, Larsson T, Carlsson Tedgren Å, Jia X. Emerging technologies in brachytherapy. Phys Med Biol 2021; 66. [PMID: 34710856 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6560/ac344d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Brachytherapy is a mature treatment modality. The literature is abundant in terms of review articles and comprehensive books on the latest established as well as evolving clinical practices. The intent of this article is to part ways and look beyond the current state-of-the-art and review emerging technologies that are noteworthy and perhaps may drive the future innovations in the field. There are plenty of candidate topics that deserve a deeper look, of course, but with practical limits in this communicative platform, we explore four topics that perhaps is worthwhile to review in detail at this time. First, intensity modulated brachytherapy (IMBT) is reviewed. The IMBT takes advantage ofanisotropicradiation profile generated through intelligent high-density shielding designs incorporated onto sources and applicators such to achieve high quality plans. Second, emerging applications of 3D printing (i.e. additive manufacturing) in brachytherapy are reviewed. With the advent of 3D printing, interest in this technology in brachytherapy has been immense and translation swift due to their potential to tailor applicators and treatments customizable to each individual patient. This is followed by, in third, innovations in treatment planning concerning catheter placement and dwell times where new modelling approaches, solution algorithms, and technological advances are reviewed. And, fourth and lastly, applications of a new machine learning technique, called deep learning, which has the potential to improve and automate all aspects of brachytherapy workflow, are reviewed. We do not expect that all ideas and innovations reviewed in this article will ultimately reach clinic but, nonetheless, this review provides a decent glimpse of what is to come. It would be exciting to monitor as IMBT, 3D printing, novel optimization algorithms, and deep learning technologies evolve over time and translate into pilot testing and sensibly phased clinical trials, and ultimately make a difference for cancer patients. Today's fancy is tomorrow's reality. The future is bright for brachytherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Y Song
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, United States of America
| | - James L Robar
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Björn Morén
- Department of Mathematics, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Torbjörn Larsson
- Department of Mathematics, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Åsa Carlsson Tedgren
- Radiation Physics, Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.,Medical Radiation Physics and Nuclear Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Oncology Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Xun Jia
- Innovative Technology Of Radiotherapy Computations and Hardware (iTORCH) Laboratory, Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, United States of America
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28
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Tajik M, Akhlaqi MM, Gholami S. Advances in anthropomorphic thorax phantoms for radiotherapy: a review. Biomed Phys Eng Express 2021; 8. [PMID: 34736235 DOI: 10.1088/2057-1976/ac369c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
A phantom is a highly specialized device, which mimic human body, or a part of it. There are three categories of phantoms: physical phantoms, physiological phantoms, and computational phantoms. The phantoms have been utilized in medical imaging and radiotherapy for numerous applications. In radiotherapy, the phantoms may be used for various applications such as quality assurance (QA), dosimetry, end-to-end testing, etc. In thoracic radiotherapy, unique QA problems including tumor motion, thorax deformation, and heterogeneities in the beam path have complicated the delivery of dose to both tumor and organ at risks (OARs). Also, respiratory motion is a major challenge in radiotherapy of thoracic malignancies, which can be resulted in the discrepancies between the planned and delivered doses to cancerous tissue. Hence, the overall treatment procedure needs to be verified. Anthropomorphic thorax phantoms, which are made of human tissue-mimicking materials, can be utilized to obtain the ground truth to validate these processes. Accordingly, research into new anthropomorphic thorax phantoms has accelerated. Therefore, the review is intended to summarize the current status of the commercially available and in-house-built anthropomorphic physical/physiological thorax phantoms in radiotherapy. The main focus is on anthropomorphic, deformable thorax motion phantoms. This review also discusses the applications of three-dimensional (3D) printing technology for the fabrication of thorax phantoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdieh Tajik
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran Tehran district 6 poursina st Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 1416753955, Iran (the Islamic Republic of)
| | - Mohammad Mohsen Akhlaqi
- Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Iran,Tehran,Shahid Bahonar roundabout, Darabad Avenue,Masih Daneshvari Hospital, Tehran, 19839-63113, Iran (the Islamic Republic of)
| | - Somayeh Gholami
- Radiotherapy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Bolvarekeshavarz AVN, Tehran, Iran, Tehran, 1416753955, Iran (the Islamic Republic of)
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Lu Y, Wang F, Shi Q, Zhang J, Xiang Z, Li N, Huang X, Song J. Three-Dimensional Printing Chitosan-Based Bolus Used for Radiotherapy. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2021; 4:7094-7102. [PMID: 35006941 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.1c00701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
A bolus is a kind of tissue equivalent material used in radiotherapy for treating superficial lesions. Despite the availability of various commercial boluses, it is hard for them to form full contact with the irregular surface of patients' skin, such as the scalp, nose, and ear, resulting in air gaps and leading to a discrepancy between the delivered dose and planned dose. To solve this problem, we provided a photocurable bioink created from chitosan (CHI) for digital light processing (DLP) three-dimensional (3D) printing the bolus in radiotherapy application. The chitosan-based bioink (CHI-MA) was obtained by a methacrylation process using methacrylic anhydride (MA). Photosensitive crosslinkers with different molecular weights were introduced into the bioink. The photocuring efficiency and mechanical properties of CHI-MA hydrogels can be well modulated by varying the crosslinkers. This CHI-MA bioink allowed us to create complex structures with reliable biocompatibility, good flexibility, and excellent structural stability. Furthermore, the nose bolus processed by 3D printing this bioink proved to be a good fit for the nose model and showed a desirable radiotherapy effect. This suggests that DLP 3D printing of the CHI-MA bioink would be a promising approach to obtain the customized bolus in the application of radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Lu
- Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030032, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Fan Wang
- Laboratory of Biomaterial Surface and Interface, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, Shanxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Qinying Shi
- Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030032, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Jianan Zhang
- Laboratory of Biomaterial Surface and Interface, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, Shanxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Zuojia Xiang
- Laboratory of Biomaterial Surface and Interface, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, Shanxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Ning Li
- Laboratory of Biomaterial Surface and Interface, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, Shanxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Xiaobo Huang
- Laboratory of Biomaterial Surface and Interface, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Taiyuan University of Technology, Taiyuan 030024, Shanxi Province, P.R. China
| | - Jianbo Song
- Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan 030032, Shanxi Province, China
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Wang X, Wang X, Xiang Z, Zeng Y, Liu F, Shao B, He T, Ma J, Yu S, Liu L. The Clinical Application of 3D-Printed Boluses in Superficial Tumor Radiotherapy. Front Oncol 2021; 11:698773. [PMID: 34490095 PMCID: PMC8416990 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.698773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
During the procedure of radiotherapy for superficial tumors, the key to treatment is to ensure that the skin surface receives an adequate radiation dose. However, due to the presence of the built-up effect of high-energy rays, equivalent tissue compensators (boluses) with appropriate thickness should be placed on the skin surface to increase the target radiation dose. Traditional boluses do not usually fit the skin perfectly. Wet gauze is variable in thickness day to day which results in air gaps between the skin and the bolus. These unwanted but avoidable air gaps lead to a decrease of the radiation dose in the target area and can have a poor effect on the outcome. Three-dimensional (3D) printing, a new rising technology named “additive manufacturing” (AM), could create physical models with specific shapes from digital information by using special materials. It has been favored in many fields because of its advantages, including less waste, low-cost, and individualized design. It is not an exception in the field of radiotherapy, personalized boluses made through 3D printing technology also make up for a number of shortcomings of the traditional commercial bolus. Therefore, an increasing number of researchers have tried to use 3D-printed boluses for clinical applications rather than commercial boluses. Here, we review the 3D-printed bolus’s material selection and production process, its clinical applications, and potential radioactive dermatitis. Finally, we discuss some of the challenges that still need to be addressed with the 3D-printed boluses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiran Wang
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xuetao Wang
- Department of Radiotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhongzheng Xiang
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zeng
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Fang Liu
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Bianfei Shao
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tao He
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiachun Ma
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Siting Yu
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lei Liu
- Department of Head and Neck Oncology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Additive manufacturing (3D printing) in superficial brachytherapy. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2021; 13:468-482. [PMID: 34484363 PMCID: PMC8407265 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2021.108602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this work is to provide an overview of the current state of additive manufacturing (AM), commonly known as 3D printing, within superficial brachytherapy (BT). Several comprehensive database searches were performed to find publications linked to AM in superficial BT. Twenty-eight core publications were found, which can be grouped under general categories of clinical cases, physical and dosimetric evaluations, proof-of-concept cases, design process assessments, and economic feasibility studies. Each study demonstrated a success regarding AM implementation and collectively, they provided benefits over traditional applicator fabrication techniques. Publications of AM in superficial BT have increased significantly in the last 5 years. This is likely due to associated efficiency and consistency benefits; though, more evidences are needed to determine the true extent of these benefits.
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Malkoske KE, Sixel KE, Hunter R, Battista JJ. COMP Report: An updated algorithm to estimate medical physics staffing levels for radiation oncology. J Appl Clin Med Phys 2021; 22:6-15. [PMID: 34318570 PMCID: PMC8364262 DOI: 10.1002/acm2.13364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Medical physics staffing models require periodic review due to the rapid evolution of technology and clinical techniques in radiation oncology. We present an update to a grid‐based physics staffing algorithm for radiation oncology (originally published in 2012) that has been widely used in Canada over the last decade. Materials and Methods The physics staffing algorithm structure was modified to improve the clarity and consistency of input data. We collected information on clinical procedures, equipment inventory, and teaching activities from 15 radiation treatment centers in the province of Ontario from April 1, 2018, to March 31, 2019. Using these data sets, the algorithm's weighting parameters were adjusted to align the prediction of full‐time equivalent (FTE) personnel with actual staffing levels in Ontario. The algorithm computes FTE estimates for medical physicists, physics assistants, engineering (electrical and mechanical), and information technology (IT) support. The performance of the algorithm was also tested in eight Canadian cancer centers outside of Ontario. Results The mean difference between the algorithm and actual staffing for the 23 Canadian cancer centers did not exceed 0.5 FTE for any staffing group. The results were slightly better in Ontario than in other provinces, as expected since the algorithm was optimized using Ontario data. There was a linear correlation between the algorithm predictions and the number of annual‐treated cases for physicists, and physicists plus physics assistants. For other staff categories, the algorithm weighting parameters were not significantly altered, except for a reduction in mechanical engineering staff. Comparison with other published models suggests that the updated algorithm should be considered as a minimum recommended staffing level for the clinical support of radiation oncology programs. Conclusions We support the use of grid‐based physics staffing algorithms that account for clinical workload with flexibility to adapt to local conditions with variable academic and research demands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle E Malkoske
- Simcoe Muskoka Regional Cancer Program, Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre, Barrie, ON, Canada
| | - Katharina E Sixel
- Department of Medical Physics, Durham Regional Cancer Centre, Lakeridge Health, Oshawa, ON, Canada.,Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Robert Hunter
- Department of Medical Physics, Juravinski Cancer Centre, Hamilton Health Sciences, Hamilton, ON, Canada.,School of Interdisciplinary Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Jerry J Battista
- Departments of Oncology and Medical Biophysics, Western University, London, ON, Canada
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Truong LB, Medina Cruz D, Mostafavi E, O’Connell CP, Webster TJ. Advances in 3D-Printed Surface-Modified Ca-Si Bioceramic Structures and Their Potential for Bone Tumor Therapy. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 14:3844. [PMID: 34300763 PMCID: PMC8306413 DOI: 10.3390/ma14143844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Bioceramics such as calcium silicate (Ca-Si), have gained a lot of interest in the biomedical field due to their strength, osteogenesis capability, mechanical stability, and biocompatibility. As such, these materials are excellent candidates to promote bone and tissue regeneration along with treating bone cancer. Bioceramic scaffolds, functionalized with appropriate materials, can achieve desirable photothermal effects, opening up a bifunctional approach to osteosarcoma treatments-simultaneously killing cancerous cells while expediting healthy bone tissue regeneration. At the same time, they can also be used as vehicles and cargo structures to deliver anticancer drugs and molecules in a targeted manner to tumorous tissue. However, the traditional synthesis routes for these bioceramic scaffolds limit the macro-, micro-, and nanostructures necessary for maximal benefits for photothermal therapy and drug delivery. Therefore, a different approach to formulate bioceramic scaffolds has emerged in the form of 3D printing, which offers a sustainable, highly reproducible, and scalable method for the production of valuable biomedical materials. Here, calcium silicate (Ca-Si) is reviewed as a novel 3D printing base material, functionalized with highly photothermal materials for osteosarcoma therapy and drug delivery platforms. Consequently, this review aims to detail advances made towards functionalizing 3D-printed Ca-Si and similar bioceramic scaffold structures as well as their resulting applications for various aspects of tumor therapy, with a focus on the external surface and internal dispersion functionalization of the scaffolds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linh B. Truong
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (L.B.T.); (D.M.C.); (C.P.O.); (T.J.W.)
| | - David Medina Cruz
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (L.B.T.); (D.M.C.); (C.P.O.); (T.J.W.)
| | - Ebrahim Mostafavi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (L.B.T.); (D.M.C.); (C.P.O.); (T.J.W.)
- Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
- Department of Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Catherine P. O’Connell
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (L.B.T.); (D.M.C.); (C.P.O.); (T.J.W.)
| | - Thomas J. Webster
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (L.B.T.); (D.M.C.); (C.P.O.); (T.J.W.)
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Rahimy E, Skinner L, Kim YH, Hoppe RT. Technical report: 3D-printed patient-specific scalp shield for hair preservation in total skin electron beam therapy. Tech Innov Patient Support Radiat Oncol 2021; 18:12-15. [PMID: 33997322 PMCID: PMC8091539 DOI: 10.1016/j.tipsro.2021.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
•Techniques for non-lead scalp-shielding in total skin therapy are lacking.•3D-printing is a promising technique for patient-specific conformal shielding.•We present a case of effective scalp shielding with 3D-printing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Rahimy
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Lawrie Skinner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Youn H Kim
- Department of Dermatology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Richard T Hoppe
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
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