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Karius A, Leifeld LM, Strnad V, Schweizer C, Fietkau R, Bert C. Initial needle tracking with the first standalone combined infrared camera - CT system for brachytherapy-analysis of tracking accuracy and uncertainties. Strahlenther Onkol 2024:10.1007/s00066-024-02253-3. [PMID: 38967820 DOI: 10.1007/s00066-024-02253-3] [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: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE A prototype infrared camera - cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) system for tracking in brachytherapy has recently been developed. We evaluated for the first time the corresponding tracking accuracy and uncertainties, and implemented a tracking-based prediction of needles on CBCT scans. METHODS A marker tool rigidly attached to needles was 3D printed. The precision and accuracy of tool tracking was then evaluated for both static and dynamic scenarios. Euclidean distances between the tracked and CBCT-derived markers were assessed as well. To implement needle tracking, ground truth models of the tool attached to 200 mm and 160 mm needles were matched to the tracked positions in order to project the needles into CBCT scans. Deviations between projected and actual needle tips were measured. Finally, we put our results into perspective with simulations of the system's tracking uncertainties. RESULTS For the stationary scenario and dynamic movements, we achieved tool-tracking precision and accuracy of 0.04 ± 0.06 mm and 0.16 ± 0.18 mm, respectively. The tracked marker positions differed by 0.52 ± 0.18 mm from the positions determined via CBCT. In addition, the predicted needle tips in air deviated from the actual tip positions by only 1.62 ± 0.68 mm (200 mm needle) and 1.49 ± 0.62 mm (160 mm needle). The simulated tracking uncertainties resulted in tip variations of 1.58 ± 0.91 mm and 1.31 ± 0.69 mm for the 200 mm and 160 mm needles, respectively. CONCLUSION With the innovative system it was possible to achieve a high tracking and prediction accuracy of marker tool and needles. The system shows high potential for applicator tracking in brachytherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andre Karius
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsstraße 27, 91054, Erlangen, Germany.
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Lisa Marie Leifeld
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsstraße 27, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Vratislav Strnad
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsstraße 27, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Claudia Schweizer
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsstraße 27, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Rainer Fietkau
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsstraße 27, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christoph Bert
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Universitätsstraße 27, 91054, Erlangen, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
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Alfrink J, Aigner T, Zoche H, Distel L, Grabenbauer GG. Radiochemotherapy and interstitial brachytherapy for cervical cancer: clinical results and patient-reported outcome measures. Strahlenther Onkol 2024:10.1007/s00066-023-02196-1. [PMID: 38296845 DOI: 10.1007/s00066-023-02196-1] [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: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate clinical results and long-term patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) on quality of life in cervical cancer patients following radiochemotherapy (RCT) and brachytherapy (BT) as definitive treatment. MATERIALS AND METHODS Between 2003 and 2023, a total of 132 patients with advanced cervical cancer were evaluated for possible treatment. Patients treated by postoperative RCT, palliative radiotherapy, and those treated for recurrent disease were excluded. Thus, 46 patients receiving standard RCT and BT as their curative treatment were included in this study. PROMs were assessed prospectively by patients' self-completion of the EORTC-QLQ-C30 and EORTC-QLQ-CX24 questionnaires. RESULTS Five-year overall survival (OS), distant metastases-free survival (DMFS), and pelvic tumor-free survival rates (PTFS) were 53%, 54%, and 83%, respectively. A significant impact on OS was seen for FIGO (International Federation of Gynecologic Oncology) stage (IIB-IIIA: 79% vs. IIIB-IVA: 33%, p = 0.015), for overall treatment time (OTT; 50-65 d: 64% vs. > 65 d: 38%, p = 0.004), and for rectal D2cc (≤ 73 Gy: 50% vs. > 73 Gy: 38%, p = 0.046). The identical parameters were significantly associated with DMFS (FIGO stage: p = 0.012, OTT: p = 0.008, D2cc: p = 0.024). No parameters with a significant influence on PTFS were seen. In multivariate analysis, an impact of FIGO stage on OS (p = 0.05) and DMFS (p = 0.014) was detected, and of rectal D2cc on DMFS (p = 0.031). The overall QoL score was 63/100. Cognitive function was the least impaired (84/100), while role functioning was the worst (67/100). On the symptom scale, insomnia (46/100), fatigue (41/100), dyspnea (32/100), pain (26/100), and financial difficulties (25/100) were scored the worst. According to EORTC-QLQ-CX24, peripheral neuropathy (36/100) and lymphedema (32/100) occurred most frequently. Impaired sexual/vaginal functioning (32/100) and body image (22/100) were also frequently recorded. CONCLUSION In patients with advanced cervical cancer, a combination of RCT and BT remains an excellent treatment option. In terms of patient-reported long-term quality of life, specific support is needed to alleviate symptoms including lymphedema, peripheral neuropathy, and impaired sexual activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Alfrink
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospitals of Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Coburg Cancer Center, Coburg, Germany
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Coburg Cancer Center, Coburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Aigner
- Department of Pathology, Coburg Cancer Center, Coburg, Germany
| | - Hermann Zoche
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Coburg Cancer Center, Coburg, Germany
| | - Luitpold Distel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospitals of Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Gerhard G Grabenbauer
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospitals of Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany.
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Coburg Cancer Center, Coburg, Germany.
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Coburg Cancer Center, Coburg, Germany.
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Zhou J, Lei N, Qin B, Chen M, Gong S, Sun H, Qiu L, Wu F, Guo R, Ma Q, Li Y, Chang L. Aldolase A promotes cervical cancer cell radioresistance by regulating the glycolysis and DNA damage after irradiation. Cancer Biol Ther 2023; 24:2287128. [PMID: 38010897 PMCID: PMC10761068 DOI: 10.1080/15384047.2023.2287128] [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: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Radioresistance is the major obstacle that affects the efficacy of radiotherapy which is an important treatment for cervical cancer. By analyzing the databases, we found that aldolase A (ALDOA), which is a key enzyme in metabolic reprogramming, has a higher expression in cervical cancer patients and is associated with poor prognosis. We detected the expression of ALDOA in the constructed cervical cancer radioresistance (RR) cells by repetitive irradiation and found that it was upregulated compared to the control cells. Functional assays were conducted and the results showed that the knockdown of ALDOA in cervical cancer RR cells inhibited the proliferation, migration, and clonogenic abilities by regulating the cell glycolysis. In addition, downregulation of ALDOA enhanced radiation-induced apoptosis and DNA damage by causing G2/M phase arrest and further promoted radiosensitivity of cervical cancer cells. The functions of ALDOA in regulating tumor radiosensitivity were also verified by the mouse tumor transplantation model in vivo. Therefore, our study provides new insights into the functions of ALDOA in regulating the efficacy of radiotherapy and indicates that ALDOA might be a promising target for enhancing radiosensitivity in treating cervical cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junying Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Ningjing Lei
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Bo Qin
- Translational Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Mengyu Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Shuai Gong
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Hao Sun
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Luojie Qiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Fengling Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Ruixia Guo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Qian Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yong Li
- Cancer Care Centre, St George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW, Australia
- St George and Sutherland Clinical Campuses, School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Lei Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
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Barbera F, Frassine F, Volpi G, Ghedi B, Pasinetti N. Locally advanced cervical cancer: how the improvement in techniques in external beam radiotherapy and brachytherapy impacts on survival outcomes and long-term toxicities. LA RADIOLOGIA MEDICA 2023; 128:1542-1552. [PMID: 37640897 DOI: 10.1007/s11547-023-01705-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Platinum-based chemoradiotherapy and brachytherapy are the standard treatment for locally advanced cervical cancer. Reported long-term outcomes for treated with both IMRT and 3D-Image-guided-adaptive brachytherapy are lacking. METHODS This retrospective study included 165 patients with FIGO Stage IB-IVB cervical cancer, treated with chemoradiotherapy in combination with brachytherapy. External beam radiotherapy was delivered as IMRT/VMAT/TOMO helical or 3DCRT. The intracavitary brachytherapy treatment (ICBT) was performed using two different planning system (with or without optimization). RESULTS Among the patient subgroups, comprising those who received IMRT/VMAT/Tomo helical and 3DCRT, as well as those who underwent ICBT planning optimization and those who did not, homogeneity was observed in terms of age, performance status, T stage, N status, TNM stage, and histology. With a median follow-up time of 60.5 months, the 5-year overall survival (OS) in the 3DCRT and IMRT groups was 74.9% and 92.8%, respectively (p = 0.033). The 5-year OS in the ICBT planning optimization group was 93.7%, compared to 75% in the non-optimization group (p = 0.014). Regarding late radiation toxicities, patients in the IMRT group had a lower incidence of chronic rectal toxicity compared to those in the 3DCRT group (6.5% vs. 34.1%, p = 0.001). The group with ICBT planning optimization had a lower incidence of late urinary toxicities (10.4%) compared to the non-optimized ICBT planning group (18.2%, p = 0.012). Similarly, the ICBT planning optimization group had a lower incidence of late rectal toxicity (6.5% with 80% grade 1 and 20% grade 2) compared to the non-optimized ICBT planning group (34.1%, p = 0.001). CONCLUSION In this series, the group of patients receiving optimized ICBT had an advantage in terms of OS and CSS suggesting that the use of new Treatment Planning Systems associated with 3D imaging, improves the long-term survival. Additionally, a significant reduction in late rectal and urinary toxicity has been observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Barbera
- Radiation Oncology Department, University of Brescia, Spedali Civili of Brescia. P.le Spedali Civili, 1, 24123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Francesco Frassine
- Radiation Oncology Department, University of Brescia, Spedali Civili of Brescia. P.le Spedali Civili, 1, 24123, Brescia, Italy
| | - Giulia Volpi
- Radiation Oncology Department, University of Brescia, Spedali Civili of Brescia. P.le Spedali Civili, 1, 24123, Brescia, Italy.
| | - Barbara Ghedi
- Department of Health Physics, Spedali Civili Hospital, Brescia, Lombardia, Italy
| | - Nadia Pasinetti
- Radiation Oncology Department, ASST Valcamonica Esine and University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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Li F, Shi D, Bu M, Lu S, Zhao H. Four-Dimensional Image-Guided Adaptive Brachytherapy for Cervical Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Regression Analysis. Front Oncol 2022; 12:870570. [PMID: 35860574 PMCID: PMC9291247 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.870570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PurposeThe ICRU/GEC-ESTRO released the ICRU Report No. 89, which introduced the concept of four-dimensional brachytherapy and ushered in a new era of brachytherapy for cervical cancer. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the local control and late toxicity of four-dimensional brachytherapy in cervical cancer through a systematic review and to reveal the dose-response relationship between the volumetric dose paraments and the local control rate via a probit model.Material and MethodsWe identified studies that reported the HR-CTV D90 and local control probabilities by searching the PubMed Database, the Web of Science Core Collection and the Cochrane Library Database through February 1st, 2022. Regression analyses were performed between the HR-CTV D90 and the local control probability using a probit model.ResultsNineteen studies enrolling 3,616 patients were included. The probit model showed a significant relationship between the HR-CTV D90 value and IR-CTV D90 Vs. the local control probability, P < 0.001 and P = 0.003, respectively. The D90 for HR-CTV and IR-CTV corresponding to a probability of 90% local control was 79.1 GyEQD2,10 (95% CI:69.8 – 83.7 GyEQD2,10) and 66.5 GyEQD2,10 (95% CI: 62.8 - 67.9 GyEQD2,10), respectively. The limits for the prescribed dose of 85 GyEQD2,10 for HR-CTV D90 theoretically warranted a 92.1% (95% CI: 90.2% - 95.3%) local control rate, and 87.2% (95% CI: 82.4% - 91.8%) local control probability was expected for 65 GyEQD2,10 to IR-CTV D90. The probit model showed no significant relationship between the D2cc to organs at risk and the probability of grade 3 and above gastrointestinal or genitourinary toxicity.ConclusionsFour-dimensional brachytherapy takes into account uncertain factors such as tumour regression, internal organ motion and organ filling, and provides a more accurate and more therapeutic ratio delivery through adaptive delineation and replanning, replacement of the applicator, and the addition of interstitial needles. The dose volume effect relationship of four-dimensional brachytherapy between the HR-CTV D90 and the local control rate provides an objective planning aim dose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Dan Shi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Mingwei Bu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Guowen Medical Corporation Changchun Hospital, Changchun, China
| | - Shuangchen Lu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hongfu Zhao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
- *Correspondence: Hongfu Zhao,
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Karius A, Strnad V, Lotter M, Kreppner S, Bert C. First clinical experience with a novel, mobile cone-beam CT system for treatment quality assurance in brachytherapy. Strahlenther Onkol 2022; 198:573-581. [PMID: 35278094 PMCID: PMC9165284 DOI: 10.1007/s00066-022-01912-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Background and purpose On-site cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) has gained in importance in adaptive brachytherapy during recent years. Besides treatment planning, there is increased need particularly for image-guidance during interventional procedures and for image-guided treatment quality assurance (QA). For this purpose, an innovative CBCT device was rolled out at our hospital as the first site worldwide. We present the first clinical images and experiences. Materials and methods The novel CBCT system is constructed of a 121 cm diameter ring gantry, and features a 43.2 × 43.2 cm2 flat-panel detector, wireless remote-control via tablet-PC, and battery-powered maneuverability. Within the first months of clinical operation, we performed CBCT-based treatment QA for a total of 26 patients (8 with breast, 16 with cervix, and 2 with vaginal cancer). CBCT scans were analyzed regarding potential movements of implanted applicators in-situ during the brachytherapy course. Results With the presented device, treatment QA was feasible for the majority of patients. The CBCT scans of breast patients showed sufficient contrast between implanted catheters and tissue. For gynecologic patients, a distinct visualization of applicators was achieved in general. However, reasonable differentiations of organic soft tissues were not feasible. Conclusion The CBCT system allowed basic treatment QA measures for breast and gynecologic patients. For image-guidance during interventional brachytherapy procedures, the current image quality is not adequate. Substantial performance enhancements are required for intraoperative image-guidance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andre Karius
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Universitätsstr. 27, 91054, Erlangen, Germany. .,Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Vratislav Strnad
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Universitätsstr. 27, 91054, Erlangen, Germany.,Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Michael Lotter
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Universitätsstr. 27, 91054, Erlangen, Germany.,Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Stephan Kreppner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Universitätsstr. 27, 91054, Erlangen, Germany.,Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christoph Bert
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Universitätsstr. 27, 91054, Erlangen, Germany.,Comprehensive Cancer Center Erlangen-EMN (CCC ER-EMN), Erlangen, Germany
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