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Wang Z, Guo X, Zhao H. Dose-response relationship between volume base dose and tumor local control in definitive radiotherapy for vaginal cancer. BMC Cancer 2024; 24:707. [PMID: 38851692 PMCID: PMC11162573 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-024-12486-1] [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: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to establish the dose-response relationship between volume base dose and tumor local control for vaginal cancer, including primary vaginal cancer and recurrent gynecologic malignancies in the vagina. MATERIALS AND METHODS We identified studies that reported volume base dose and local control by searching the PubMed, the Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library Database through August 12, 2023. The regression analyses were performed using probit model between volume based dose versus clinical outcomes. Subgroup analyses were performed according to stratification: publication year, country, inclusion time of patients, patients with prior radiotherapy, age, primaries or recurrent, tumor size, concurrent chemoradiotherapy proportion, dose rate, image modality for planning, and interstitial proportion. RESULTS A total of 879 patients with vaginal cancer were identified from 18 studies. Among them, 293 cases were primary vaginal cancer, 573 cases were recurrent cancer in the vagina, and 13 cases were unknown. The probit model showed a significant relationship between the HR-CTV (or CTV) D90 versus the 2-year and 3-year local control, P values were 0.013 and 0.014, respectively. The D90 corresponding to probabilities of 90% 2-year local control were 79.0 GyEQD2,10 (95% CI: 75.3-96.6 GyEQD2,10). CONCLUSIONS A significant dependence of 2-year or 3-year local control on HR-CTV (or CTV) D90 was found. Our research findings encourage further validation of the dose-response relationship of radical radiotherapy for vaginal cancer through protocol based multicenter clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqiang Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, No. 126, Xiantai Street, Changchun, 130033, PR China
| | - Xin Guo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, No. 126, Xiantai Street, Changchun, 130033, PR China
| | - Hongfu Zhao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, No. 126, Xiantai Street, Changchun, 130033, PR China.
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Dávila Fajardo R, Scarzello G, Gaze MN, Boterberg T, Cameron A, Fuchs J, Guérin F, Hoskin P, Krasin MJ, Kroon P, Magelssen H, Mercke C, Merks JHM, Paulsen F, Pommier P, Ramos M, Rees H, Rogers T, Schmid M, Seitz G, Slater O, Smeulders N, Stenman J, Terwisscha S, Chargari C, Mandeville HC. Brachytherapy for rhabdomyosarcoma: Survey of international clinical practice and development of guidelines. Radiother Oncol 2024; 195:110273. [PMID: 38588921 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2024.110273] [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: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to address the lack of published data on the use of brachytherapy in pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma by describing current practice as starting point to develop consensus guidelines. MATERIALS AND METHODS An international expert panel on the treatment of pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma comprising 24 (pediatric) radiation oncologists, brachytherapists and pediatric surgeons met for a Brachytherapy Workshop hosted by the European paediatric Soft tissue Sarcoma Study Group (EpSSG). The panel's clinical experience, the results of a previously distributed questionnaire, and a review of the literature were presented. RESULTS The survey indicated the most common use of brachytherapy to be in combination with tumor resection, followed by brachytherapy as sole local therapy modality. HDR was increasingly deployed in pediatric practice, especially for genitourinary sites. Brachytherapy planning was mostly by 3D imaging based on CT. Recommendations for patient selection, treatment requirements, implant technique, delineation, dose prescription, dose reporting and clinical management were defined. CONCLUSIONS Consensus guidelines for the use of brachytherapy in pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma have been developed through multicenter collaboration establishing the basis for future work. These have been adopted for the open EpSSG overarching study for children and adults with Frontline and Relapsed RhabdoMyoSarcoma (FaR-RMS).
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Dávila Fajardo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Division Imaging and Oncology, University Medical Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | | | - Mark N Gaze
- Department of Oncology, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Tom Boterberg
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Alison Cameron
- Bristol Cancer Institute, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, United Kingdom.
| | - Joerg Fuchs
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Pediatric Urology, University Childreńs Hospital, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Florent Guérin
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Paris-Saclay University, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Bicêtre Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Peter Hoskin
- Department of Oncology, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Matthew J Krasin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, USA
| | - Petra Kroon
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Division Imaging and Oncology, University Medical Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | | | - Claes Mercke
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Johannes H M Merks
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Division Imaging and Oncology, University Medical Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Frank Paulsen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital, Tuebingen, Germany.
| | - Pascal Pommier
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Centre Leon Berard, Lyon, France.
| | - Monica Ramos
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Helen Rees
- Bristol Cancer Institute, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, United Kingdom.
| | - Tim Rogers
- Bristol Cancer Institute, University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Maximilian Schmid
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Guido Seitz
- Department of Pediatric Surgery and Urology, University Hospital Giessen-Marburg, Campus Marburg, Marburg, Germany.
| | - Olga Slater
- Department of Paediatric Oncology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Naima Smeulders
- Department of Paediatric Urology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Jakob Stenman
- Childhood Cancer Research Unit, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Sheila Terwisscha
- Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Cyrus Chargari
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Gustave Roussy Comprehensive Cancer Center, Villejuif, France.
| | - Henry C Mandeville
- The Royal Marsden Hospital and Institute of Cancer Research, Sutton, United Kingdom
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3
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Chen ZJ, Li XA, Brenner DJ, Hellebust TP, Hoskin P, Joiner MC, Kirisits C, Nath R, Rivard MJ, Thomadsen BR, Zaider M. AAPM Task Group Report 267: A joint AAPM GEC-ESTRO report on biophysical models and tools for the planning and evaluation of brachytherapy. Med Phys 2024; 51:3850-3923. [PMID: 38721942 DOI: 10.1002/mp.17062] [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: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Brachytherapy utilizes a multitude of radioactive sources and treatment techniques that often exhibit widely different spatial and temporal dose delivery patterns. Biophysical models, capable of modeling the key interacting effects of dose delivery patterns with the underlying cellular processes of the irradiated tissues, can be a potentially useful tool for elucidating the radiobiological effects of complex brachytherapy dose delivery patterns and for comparing their relative clinical effectiveness. While the biophysical models have been used largely in research settings by experts, it has also been used increasingly by clinical medical physicists over the last two decades. A good understanding of the potentials and limitations of the biophysical models and their intended use is critically important in the widespread use of these models. To facilitate meaningful and consistent use of biophysical models in brachytherapy, Task Group 267 (TG-267) was formed jointly with the American Association of Physics in Medicine (AAPM) and The Groupe Européen de Curiethérapie and the European Society for Radiotherapy & Oncology (GEC-ESTRO) to review the existing biophysical models, model parameters, and their use in selected brachytherapy modalities and to develop practice guidelines for clinical medical physicists regarding the selection, use, and interpretation of biophysical models. The report provides an overview of the clinical background and the rationale for the development of biophysical models in radiation oncology and, particularly, in brachytherapy; a summary of the results of literature review of the existing biophysical models that have been used in brachytherapy; a focused discussion of the applications of relevant biophysical models for five selected brachytherapy modalities; and the task group recommendations on the use, reporting, and implementation of biophysical models for brachytherapy treatment planning and evaluation. The report concludes with discussions on the challenges and opportunities in using biophysical models for brachytherapy and with an outlook for future developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Jay Chen
- Department of Therapeutic Radiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - X Allen Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - David J Brenner
- Center for Radiological Research, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Taran P Hellebust
- Department of Oncology, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Peter Hoskin
- Mount Vernon Cancer Center, Mount Vernon Hospital, Northwood, UK
- University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Michael C Joiner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Christian Kirisits
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ravinder Nath
- Department of Therapeutic Radiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Mark J Rivard
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Brown University School of Medicine, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Bruce R Thomadsen
- Department of Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Marco Zaider
- Department of Medical Physics, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York, USA
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Baniel CC, Hui C, Franco PA, Niedermayr T, Kidd EA. Development and clinical implementation of simple needle attachment post placement interstitial template (SNAPP-IT) enabling a shorter, more direct needle path while preserving tumor visualization. Brachytherapy 2024; 23:149-153. [PMID: 38160101 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2023.12.002] [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: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Historical gynecologic interstitial brachytherapy templates block direct tumor visualization during needle placement, presenting an opportunity for clinical innovation to develop a novel interstitial template allowing direct tumor visualization during needle insertion. METHODS AND MATERIALS We designed and implemented a novel interstitial template, simple needle attachment post placement interstitial template (SNAPP-IT), that allowed direct visualization of the target vaginal tumor during interstitial needle placement while maintaining the ability to individually secure needles to the template, allow a vaginal cylinder, suture holes for securing to the perineum, MRI compatibility and sterilizable for repeat use. Procedure outcomes including procedure time, needle path lengths, and plan dosimetry were prospectively captured in a patient database. RESULTS Forty gynecologic interstitial brachytherapy cases were recorded (20 SNAPP-IT, 20 traditional templates). Needle insertion depth was reduced using the SNAPP-IT in comparison with traditional interstitial templates (11.8 cm vs. 3.6 cm, p < 0.0001). The average CTV volume was 25.6 cc for SNAPP-IT and 20.7 cc for traditional; both methods averaged a similar number of needles (15.8, 15.6). Dosimetric constraints were similarly met in both treatment groups. Procedures performed using the SNAPP-IT were shorter compared with those performed with traditional interstitial devices (83.4 minutes vs. 100.7 minutes) and there were no post-operative infections in the SNAPP-IT group. CONCLUSIONS Implementation of a novel gynecologic interstitial brachytherapy template (SNAPP-IT) reduced procedure times, allowed direct tumor visualization, and decreased needle insertion depth. SNAPP-IT provides a useful alternative approach for vaginal interstitial brachytherapy, may increase brachytherapist efficiency with complex procedures and potentially expands access to interstitial brachytherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire C Baniel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA
| | - Caressa Hui
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA
| | - Pete A Franco
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA
| | - Thomas Niedermayr
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA
| | - Elizabeth A Kidd
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA.
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5
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Van Elburg D, Meyer T, Martell K, Quirk S, Banerjee R, Phan T, Fenster A, Roumeliotis M. Clinical implementation of 3D transvaginal ultrasound for intraoperative guidance of needle implant in template interstitial gynecologic high-dose-rate brachytherapy. Brachytherapy 2023; 22:790-799. [PMID: 37722991 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2023.08.004] [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: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To demonstrate novel clinical implementation of a 3D transvaginal ultrasound (3DTVUS) system for intraoperative needle insertion guidance in perineal template interstitial gynecologic high-dose-rate brachytherapy and assess its impact on implant quality. METHODS AND MATERIALS Interstitial implants began with preimplant 3DTVUS to visualize the tumor and anatomy, with intermittent 3DTVUS to assess the implant and guide needle adjustment. Analysis includes visualization of the implant relative to anatomy, identification of cases where 3DTVUS is beneficial, dosimetry, and a survey distributed to 3DTVUS clinicians. RESULTS Seven patients treated between November 2021 and October 2022 were included in this study. Twenty needles were inserted under 3DTVUS guidance. The tumor and vaginal wall were well-differentiated in four and all seven patients, respectively. Patients with tumours below the superior aspect of the vagina are suited for 3DTVUS. Four radiation oncologists responded to the survey. There was general agreement that 3DTVUS improves implant and anatomy visualization and is preferred over standard 2D ultrasound guidance techniques. CONCLUSIONS Based on qualitative feedback from primary users and a small preliminary patient cohort, 3DTVUS imaging improves tumor and vaginal wall visualization during gynecologic perineal template interstitial needle implant and is a powerful tool for implant assessment in an intraoperative setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devin Van Elburg
- Department of Physics & Astronomy, University of Calgary, Calgary AB, Canada; Medical Physics Department, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, Calgary AB, Canada.
| | - Tyler Meyer
- Department of Physics & Astronomy, University of Calgary, Calgary AB, Canada; Medical Physics Department, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, Calgary AB, Canada; Department of Oncology, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, University of Calgary, Calgary AB, Canada
| | - Kevin Martell
- Department of Oncology, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, University of Calgary, Calgary AB, Canada
| | - Sarah Quirk
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Robyn Banerjee
- Department of Oncology, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, University of Calgary, Calgary AB, Canada
| | - Tien Phan
- Department of Oncology, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, University of Calgary, Calgary AB, Canada
| | - Aaron Fenster
- School of Biomedical Engineering, University of Western Ontario, London ON, Canada; Robarts Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London ON, Canada
| | - Michael Roumeliotis
- Department of Radiation Oncology & Molecular Radiation Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
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6
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Kudla M, Bachand F, Moore J, Batchelar D. Patient-specific cylinder templates for hybrid interstitial vaginal brachytherapy: Feasibility of automated 3-D design, 3D printing, and dosimetric outlook. Brachytherapy 2023; 22:468-476. [PMID: 37169607 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2023.03.002] [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: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Delivering highly conformal treatment plans for high-dose rate vaginal brachytherapy using commercially available applicators can be challenging. A partially automated workflow is presented for the in-house modeling and 3D printing of patient-specific cylindrical templates (PSCTs), which facilitate placement of flexible intracavitary and interstitial needles. To demonstrate feasibility, we compare PSCT treatment plans to retrospective interstitial brachytherapy plans delivered at our center. PSCTs derived from these plans were 3D printed to test the validity of the auto-design process. To facilitate clinical implementation, we validated the steam sterilization compatibility of PSCTs printed using polyetheretherketone (PEEK). METHODS AND MATERIALS Plans for ten patients treated using a combination of vaginal cylinder and interstitial needles were compared to PSCT-based plans created for the same patient. DVH parameters for the HRCTV (V100, V150, V200, D90) and OARs (D2 cm3) were evaluated, as well as the number of needles used and the total interstitial length. Each planned PSCT was printed and compared to the intended needle geometry. 3D printed models were sterilization validated by an independent contractor for an autoclave protocol. RESULTS PSCT plans demonstrated advantages over template based perineal BT in reducing the total interstitial needle length required while preserving or improving HRCTV and OAR dosimetry. All printed PSCTs matched planned geometry. CONCLUSIONS PSCTs stand to be an alternative to current HDR-BT templates/applicators for patients with vaginal and locally recurrent endometrial cancers. Clinically equivalent or improved treatment plans can be created and devices to deliver these plans can be accurately printed and sterilized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Kudla
- Department of Physics, The University of British Columbia - Okanagan, Kelowna, BC, Canada.
| | - Francois Bachand
- Department of Radiation Oncology, BC Cancer - Kelowna, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Jocelyn Moore
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Saskatoon Cancer Center, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Deidre Batchelar
- Department of Physics, The University of British Columbia - Okanagan, Kelowna, BC, Canada; Department of Medical Physics, BC Cancer - Kelowna, Kelowna, BC, Canada
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7
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Berger D, Van Dyk S, Beaulieu L, Major T, Kron T. Modern Tools for Modern Brachytherapy. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2023:S0936-6555(23)00182-6. [PMID: 37217434 DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2023.05.003] [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: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
This review aims to showcase the brachytherapy tools and technologies that have emerged during the last 10 years. Soft-tissue contrast using magnetic resonance and ultrasound imaging has seen enormous growth in use to plan all forms of brachytherapy. The era of image-guided brachytherapy has encouraged the development of advanced applicators and given rise to the growth of individualised 3D printing to achieve reproducible and predictable implants. These advances increase the quality of implants to better direct radiation to target volumes while sparing normal tissue. Applicator reconstruction has moved beyond manual digitising, to drag and drop of three-dimensional applicator models with embedded pre-defined source pathways, ready for auto-recognition and automation. The simplified TG-43 dose calculation formalism directly linked to reference air kerma rate of high-energy sources in the medium water remains clinically robust. Model-based dose calculation algorithms accounting for tissue heterogeneity and applicator material will advance the field of brachytherapy dosimetry to become more clinically accurate. Improved dose-optimising toolkits contribute to the real-time and adaptive planning portfolio that harmonises and expedites the entire image-guided brachytherapy process. Traditional planning strategies remain relevant to validate emerging technologies and should continue to be incorporated in practice, particularly for cervical cancer. Overall, technological developments need commissioning and validation to make the best use of the advanced features by understanding their strengths and limitations. Brachytherapy has become high-tech and modern by respecting tradition and remaining accessible to all.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Berger
- International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna International Centre, Vienna, Austria.
| | - S Van Dyk
- Radiation Therapy Services, Division of Radiation Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - L Beaulieu
- Service de Physique Médicale et Radioprotection, et Axe Oncologie du Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, CHU de Québec, Québec, Canada; Département de Physique, de Génie Physique et d'Optique et Centre de Recherche sur le Cancer, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - T Major
- Radiotherapy Centre, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary; Department of Oncology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - T Kron
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; Centre for Medical Radiation Physics, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
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Riegel AC, Nosrati JD, Sidiqi BU, Cooney A, Wuu YR, Lee L, Potters L. Determining Combined Modality Dosimetric Constraints by Integration of IMRT and LDR Prostate Brachytherapy Dosimetry and Correlation with Toxicity. Adv Radiat Oncol 2023; 8:101156. [PMID: 36896208 PMCID: PMC9991539 DOI: 10.1016/j.adro.2022.101156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Intermediate- and high-risk prostate cancer patients undergoing combination external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) and low dose rate (LDR) brachytherapy have demonstrated increased genitourinary (GU) toxicity. We have previously demonstrated a method to combine EBRT and LDR dosimetry. In this work, we use this technique for a sample of patients with intermediate- and high-risk prostate cancer, correlate with clinical toxicity, and suggest preliminary summed organ-at-risk constraints for future investigation. Methods and Materials Intensity modulated EBRT and 103Pd-based LDR treatment plans were combined for 138 patients using biological effective dose (BED) and deformable image registration. GU and gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity were compared with combined dosimetry for the urethra, bladder, and rectum. Differences between doses in each toxicity grade were assessed by analysis of variance (α = 0.05). Combined dosimetric constraints are proposed using the mean organ-at-risk dose, subtracting 1 standard deviation for a conservative recommendation. Results The majority of our 138-patient cohort experienced grade 0 to 2 GU or GI toxicity. Six grade 3 toxicities were noted. Mean prostate BED D90 (± 1 standard deviation) was 165.5±11.1 Gy. Mean urethra BED D10 was 230.3±33.9 Gy. Mean bladder BED was 35.2±11.0 Gy. Mean rectum BED D2cc was 85.6±24.3 Gy. Significant dosimetric differences between toxicity grades were found for mean bladder BED, bladder D15, and rectum D50, but differences between individual means were not statistically significant. Given the low incidence of grade 3 GU and GI toxicity, we propose urethra D10 <200 Gy, rectum D2cc <60 Gy, and bladder D15 <45 Gy as preliminary dose constraints for combined modality therapy. Conclusions We successfully applied our dose integration technique to a sample of patients with intermediate- and high-risk prostate cancer. Incidence of grade 3 toxicity was low, suggesting that combined doses observed in this study were safe. We suggest preliminary dose constraints as a conservative starting point to investigate and escalate prospectively in a future study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam C Riegel
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Northwell Health, Lake Success, New York.,Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, New York
| | - Jason D Nosrati
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Northwell Health, Lake Success, New York
| | - Baho U Sidiqi
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Northwell Health, Lake Success, New York
| | - Ann Cooney
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Yen-Ruh Wuu
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Northwell Health, Lake Success, New York
| | - Lucille Lee
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Northwell Health, Lake Success, New York.,Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, New York
| | - Louis Potters
- Department of Radiation Medicine, Northwell Health, Lake Success, New York.,Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, New York
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Gutiérrez Miguélez C, Rodríguez Villalba S, Villafranca Iturre E, Fuentemilla Urio N, Richart Sancho J, Córdoba Lago S, Pino Sorroche F, Gracia Lucio R, Herreros Martínez A, Najjari-Jamal D. Recommendations of the Spanish brachytherapy group of the Spanish Society of Radiation Oncology and the Spanish Society of Medical Physics for interstitial high-dose-rate brachytherapy for gynaecologic malignancies. Clin Transl Oncol 2023; 25:912-932. [PMID: 36445642 PMCID: PMC10025210 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-022-03016-1] [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: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
The present document includes consensus-based recommendations from the Brachytherapy Group (GEB) of the Spanish Society of Radiation Oncology (SEOR) and the Spanish Society of Medical Physics (SEFM) for interstitial high-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy (BT) for gynaecologic malignancies. A nine-item survey-which included questions on experience with interstitial BT; indications and technique; applicator type; magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based planning; dose; fractionation schedule; and treatment planning-was sent to all radiation oncology departments (n = 174) in Spain in 2021. Responses were received from 36 centres (50% of all centres [n = 72] with a BT unit). The consensus-based recommendations presented here are based on a review of the available literature, professional experience among the group of experts, and in-person discussions held during the annual meeting of these two societies. We describe the results of the survey and the following: indications; contraindications; patient selection; description of applicators; role of imaging in planning; contouring; dose prescription; dosimetric reconstruction; optimisation; and dose indications for cancers of the cervix, vagina, and vulva. The various clinical scenarios in which interstitial BT is used in the treatment of gynaecological tumours are described in detail, including cervix intracavitary/interstitial hybrid HDR-BT; cervix perineal templates/freehand implants; primary vaginal malignancies/vaginal recurrences; and vulvar interstitial implants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Gutiérrez Miguélez
- Radiation Oncology Department, Institut Català d'Oncologia, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Universitat de Barcelona (UB) Catalonia, Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain.
| | | | | | | | - Jose Richart Sancho
- Radiation Oncology Department, Hospital Clínica Benidorm, Benidorm, Spain
- Radiation Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario San Juan, Alicante, Spain
| | - Sofía Córdoba Lago
- Radiation Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Pino Sorroche
- Radiophysics Department, Institut Català d'Oncologia, Hospitalet de Llobregat, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Ruth Gracia Lucio
- Radiophysics Department, Institut Català d'Oncologia, Hospitalet de Llobregat, Catalonia, Spain
| | | | - Dina Najjari-Jamal
- Radiation Oncology Department, Institut Català d'Oncologia, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Universitat de Barcelona (UB) Catalonia, Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain
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10
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Mulherkar R, Keller A, Houser CJ, Kim H, Doraisamy E, Baig T, Barry P, Vargo JA, Beriwal S. Outcomes of 3D MRI based HDR brachytherapy with hybrid multichannel vaginal cylinder applicator and freehand needles for treatment of vaginal disease. Brachytherapy 2023; 22:66-71. [PMID: 36266203 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2022.09.002] [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: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/03/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Freehand needles can be used with multichannel vaginal cylinders (MCVC) to cover vaginal cancer >7 mm thick or with supra-vaginal extension. We report our institutional outcomes using this novel hybrid technique. Patients with vaginal malignancies treated with HDR BT using MCVC plus freehand needles from 2014-2021 at our institution were identified. Clinical characteristics, details of brachytherapy, initial response, and overall local control (LC) outcomes were recorded. LC was analyzed via Kaplan-Meier method. 34 patients were identified with median follow-up 1.9 years. 19 patients had primary endometrial cancer with vaginal recurrence/disease, and remaining had primary vaginal cancer or other primaries. 7 patients had recurrence after previous RT course. 25 patients received EBRT with median dose 45 Gy in 25 fractions, and rest received BT alone. Median HR-CTV D90 for patients treated with EBRT plus BT was 77.4 Gy. 30 patients had complete local response to BT on initial examination and/or follow-up imaging. 1 and 2-year LC rates in patients without prior RT treated with EBRT + BT were 94.1% and 94.1%, respectively. 1 and 2-year LC rates for those without prior RT were 88.1% and 76.4%, respectively. 1 and 2-year LC rates for those with prior RT were 68.6% and 34.3%, respectively. 1 patient had vaginal laceration requiring surgical repair, and 1 patient developed small bowel obstruction 1 month after BT, with no additional acute grade 3+ toxicities identified. Our approach with MCVC plus freehand needles with MRI-based planning was feasible and safe, with excellent initial local response and low rate of serious toxicities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ria Mulherkar
- Department of Radiation Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh,PA
| | - Andrew Keller
- Department of Radiation Oncology, AdventHealth Cancer Institute, Orlando, FL
| | | | - Hayeon Kim
- Department of Radiation Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh,PA
| | | | - Tanvir Baig
- Department of Radiation Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh,PA
| | - Parul Barry
- Department of Radiation Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh,PA
| | - John A Vargo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh,PA
| | - Sushil Beriwal
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Allegheny Health Network Cancer Institute, Pittsburgh, PA.
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11
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Harkenrider MM, Kamrava M. Embracing a future of progress in gynecologic brachytherapy. Brachytherapy 2023; 22:6-8. [PMID: 36725200 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2022.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
In the last 20 years, gynecologic brachytherapy has made tremendous advancements, most prominently evidenced by the evolution of cervical cancer brachytherapy. In its 20 year history, Brachytherapy has become known as a journal of science, education, and advocacy for our specialty and for our patients. In this review, we celebrate the 25 most impactful manuscripts in gynecologic brachytherapy in the journal's history.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew M Harkenrider
- Loyola University Chicago, Stritch School of Medicine, Department of Radiation Oncology, Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center, Maywood, IL.
| | - Mitchell Kamrava
- Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Department of Radiation Oncology, Los Angeles, CA
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12
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Shiao JC, Holt DE, Stuhr K, Schubert L, Robin T, Fisher CM. The Kelowna template for combined intracavitary and interstitial brachytherapy for gynecologic malignancies: Design, application, treatment planning, dosimetric and treatment outcomes. Brachytherapy 2022; 21:823-832. [PMID: 36192312 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2022.04.002] [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: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE We report the feasibility, experience, and early outcomes of the combined intracavitary and interstitial dedicated applicator using the Kelowna GYN template (Varian, Palo Alto, CA). METHODS AND MATERIALS The Kelowna GYN template is CT compatible and used for the treatment of gynecologic cancers. In cases with patients that have an intact uterus, a modified applicator system using the Kelowna GYN template and a 3D printed adapter piece allows for compatibility with an intrautaerine tandem. RESULTS We reviewed the treatment course of 23 patients comprising of 86 fractions of HDR treatment. Median D90 for cervical tumors (n = 7) was 82.4 Gy (range 77.7-92.6); for postoperative cervical tumors (n = 2) was 73.9 Gy (range 72.0-5.8); for vaginal tumors (n = 4) was 85.8 Gy (range 79.8-88.1); for recurrent endometrial (n = 10) was 86.9 Gy (range 74.8-103.2). Median EQD2 D2cc for bladder was 72.4 Gy (range 47.7-99.4), for rectum was 61.2 Gy (range 52.4-80.6), and for sigmoid colon of 50.5 Gy (44.3-66.9). At a median follow-up of 12 months, 2 patients had a local recurrence. Two patients had distant recurrence: one with carcinomatosis at 6 months, and one with pulmonary metastases at 3 months. No patients had late grade three toxicities. CONCLUSIONS Our single institutional experience supports the use of the Kelowna template as a robust system as a combined IC-IS applicator resulting in versatile and reproducible implants for a variety of gynecologic malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay C Shiao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Colorado Cancer Center, Aurora, CO
| | | | - Kelly Stuhr
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Colorado Cancer Center, Aurora, CO
| | - Leah Schubert
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Colorado Cancer Center, Aurora, CO
| | - Tyler Robin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Colorado Cancer Center, Aurora, CO
| | - Christine M Fisher
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Colorado Cancer Center, Aurora, CO.
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13
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Joya M, Nedaie HA, Geraily G, Seiri M, Ghorbani M, Sheikhzadeh P. Intensity-modulated brachytherapy for vaginal cancer. Radiol Phys Technol 2022; 15:387-397. [PMID: 36069978 DOI: 10.1007/s12194-022-00680-4] [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: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the dose modulation potential of static and dynamic steel-shielded applicators using the Geant4 Application for Emission Tomography (GATE) Monte Carlo code for the treatment of vaginal cancer. The GATE TOOLKIT (version 9.0) was used to simulate vaginal cancer intensity-modulated brachytherapy (IMBT) in a pelvic water-equivalent phantom. IMBT performance of a multichannel static and single-channel dynamic steel-shielded applicator was compared to that of a conventional multichannel Plexiglas applicator. DoseActors were defined to calculate the absorbed dose and attached to the voxelized target and organs at risk (OARs). 60Co and 192Ir high-dose-rate seeds were used as irradiation sources. Dynamic IMBT decreased the D2cc of the rectum and bladder by 28.67 and 28.11% using the 60Co source and by 40.00 and 36.34% using the 192Ir source, respectively. Static IMBT decreased the D2cc for the rectum and bladder by 11.69 and 9.29% using the 60Co source and by 22.21 and 17.71% using the 192Ir source, respectively. In contrast, absorbed dose parameters (D5, D90, and D100) for the target in the three techniques showed a mean relative variation of 0.96% (0.00-7.49%) for both sources. Static and dynamic IMBT using steel-shielded applicators provided relatively better OAR protection while maintaining similar target coverage in the treatment of vaginal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Musa Joya
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. .,Radiology Department, Kabul University of Medical Sciences, Kabul, Afghanistan.
| | - Hassan Ali Nedaie
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ghazale Geraily
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahnaz Seiri
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Research Center for Molecular and Cellular Imaging (RCMCI), Advanced Medical Technologies and Equipment Institute, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Ghorbani
- Biomedical Engineering and Medical Physics Department, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Peyman Sheikhzadeh
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Department of Nuclear Medicine, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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14
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Baral SK, Biswas P, Kaium MA, Islam MA, Dey D, Saber MA, Rahaman TI, M A, Emran TB, Hasan MN, Jeong MK, Han I, Rahman MA, Kim B. A Comprehensive Discussion in Vaginal Cancer Based on Mechanisms, Treatments, Risk Factors and Prevention. Front Oncol 2022; 12:883805. [PMID: 35924174 PMCID: PMC9341270 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.883805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaginal cancer is a rare and uncommon disease that is rarely discussed. Although vaginal cancer traditionally occurs in older postmenopausal women, the incidence of high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV)-induced cancers is increasing in younger women. Cervical cancer cells contain high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) E6 and E7 proteins and inhibiting HPV gene expression leads the cells to stop proliferating and enter senescence. As E6, and E7 protein promoted the carcinogenesis mechanism, and here not only regulate the cellular degradation of P53, and pRb but also enhances the cell proliferation along with E6 protein targets the p53 for breakdown and subsequently promote the apoptotic cell death, and DNA repair inhibition, that is indispensable to the continue the lifecycle of the HPV. As a synchronous or metachronous tumor, vaginal cancer is frequently found in combination with cervical cancer. It is uncertain what causes invasive female vaginal organ cancer. HPV type 16 is the most often isolated HPV type in female vaginal organ cancers. Due to cancer’s rarity, case studies have provided the majority of etiologic findings. Many findings demonstrate that ring pessaries, chronic vaginitis, sexual behavior, birth trauma, obesity, vaginal chemical exposure, and viruses are all risk factors. Because of insufficient understanding and disease findings, we are trying to find the disease’s mechanism with the available data. We also address different risk factors, therapy at various stages, diagnosis, and management of vaginal cancer in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Partha Biswas
- Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology (JUST), Jashore, Bangladesh
- ABEx Bio-Research Center, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Abu Kaium
- Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology (JUST), Jashore, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Aminul Islam
- Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological Science and Technology, Jashore University of Science and Technology (JUST), Jashore, Bangladesh
| | - Dipta Dey
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology department, Life Science faculty, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University, Gopalgonj, Bangladesh
| | - Md Al Saber
- Biotechnology, University of Pécs, Medical School, Pécs, Hungary
| | - Tanjim Ishraq Rahaman
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Faculty of Life Science, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University, Gopalganj, Bangladesh
| | - A. M
- Department of Microbiology, Chittagong University, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Talha Bin Emran
- Department of Pharmacy, Begum Gulchemonara (BGC) Trust University Bangladesh, Chittagong, Bangladesh
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Nazmul Hasan
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Bioinformatics, Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore, Bangladesh
| | - Mi-Kyung Jeong
- Korean Medicine (KM) Convergence Research Division, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Ihn Han
- Plasma Bioscience Research Center, Kwangwoon University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Md. Ataur Rahman
- Global Biotechnology & Biomedical Research Network (GBBRN), Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Islamic University, Kushtia, Bangladesh
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
- Korean Medicine-Based Drug Repositioning Cancer Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Md. Ataur Rahman, ; Bonglee Kim,
| | - Bonglee Kim
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
- Korean Medicine-Based Drug Repositioning Cancer Research Center, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Md. Ataur Rahman, ; Bonglee Kim,
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15
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Yi B, Mossahebi S, Modiri A, Nichols EM, Guerrero M, Lamichhane N, Mohindra P. Proton Arc Therapy vs Interstitial HDR Brachytherapy in Gynecologic Cancer with Parametrial/pelvic Side Wall Extension. Int J Part Ther 2022; 9:31-39. [PMID: 36060416 PMCID: PMC9415748 DOI: 10.14338/ijpt-22-00013.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To investigate whether volumetric-modulated proton arc therapy (VPAT) plans generate comparable doses to organs at risk (OARs) compared with interstitial high–dose-rate (iHDR) brachytherapy for patients with gynecologic cancer with disease extension to parametrial/pelvic side wall, who are not eligible for the aggressive procedure. Materials and Methods VPAT delivers proton arc beams by modulated energies at the beam nozzle while maintaining the same incident energy to the gantry during the arc rotation. Plans of 10 patients previously treated with iHDR brachytherapy for high-risk clinical treatment volumes (HRCTV; 31.8–110.6 cm3; lateral dimensions, 4.2–5.6 cm) were selected and compared with VPAT plans. VPAT plans for each patient were designed using a 152- to 245-MeV range of energy-modulated proton beams. Results HRCTV coverage of the VPAT plans was comparable to that of the iHDR plans, with V150% showing no statistical differences. On average, the V100% and V90% of VPAT plans were higher than those of the iHDR plans, 95.0% vs 91.9% (P = .02) and 98.6% vs 97.5% (P = .02), respectively. D100 was also 17% higher for the VPAT plans (P = .03). On average, the D2cm3 of bladder, rectum, and small bowels in the VPAT plans were considerably lower than those in iHDR plans (by 17.4%, 35.2%, and 65.6%, respectively; P < .05 for all OARs). Conclusion VPAT–generated plans were dosimetrically superior to those with HDR brachytherapy with interstitial needles for locally advanced gynecologic cancer with parametrial/pelvic side wall disease extension. Dosimetrically, VPAT provides a noninvasive alternative to iHDR brachytherapy with a superior dosimetric profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- ByongYong Yi
- 1 Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, MD, USA
- 2 Proton Treatment Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sina Mossahebi
- 1 Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, MD, USA
- 2 Proton Treatment Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Arezoo Modiri
- 1 Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, MD, USA
| | - Elizabeth M. Nichols
- 1 Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, MD, USA
- 2 Proton Treatment Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mariana Guerrero
- 1 Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, MD, USA
| | - Narottam Lamichhane
- 1 Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, MD, USA
| | - Pranshu Mohindra
- 1 Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, MD, USA
- 2 Proton Treatment Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
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16
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Schiff JP, Mahmood M, Huang Y, Powell MA, Mutch D, Dyk PT, Lin AJ, Schwarz JK, Markovina ST, Grigsby PW. The impact of tumor size and histology on local control when utilizing high-dose-rate interstitial brachytherapy for gynecologic malignancies. Gynecol Oncol 2022; 165:486-492. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2022.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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17
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Brachytherapy for the Conservative Treatment of Female Peri-Urethral Carcinoma. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14030845. [PMID: 35159114 PMCID: PMC8834286 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14030845] [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: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Peri-urethral cancers (PUC) are rare tumors. Brachytherapy (BT), either monotherapy or combined with radiation therapy, is a preferred treatment option to spare the morbidity of surgery and achieve organ preservation. We report, to the best of our knowledge, the largest experience of brachytherapy among women with PUC. Patients and Methods: This is a retrospective review of the medical records of female patients with PUC who underwent low- or pulse-dose-rate BT with or without external beam radiotherapy at Gustave Roussy between 1990 and 2018. Patients were categorized according to the treatment intention into a primary and recurrent group. The Kaplan-Meier method was used for survival analysis, and the Cox proportional-hazard model was used for univariate analysis. Brachythewharapy-related adverse events were reported according to Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 4. Results: We identified 44 patients with PUC who underwent BT. Of the 44 patients, 22 had primary tumors and 22 had recurrent tumors. Histologies were mainly adenocarcinoma (n = 20) and squamous cell carcinoma (n = 14). The median prescribed dose was 60 Gy for the 24 patients treated with BT alone and 20 Gy (IQ range: 15-56.25 Gy) for the 20 patients treated with BT in combination with EBRT. With a median follow-up of 21.5 months (range 7.5-60.8), a total of six patients experienced local relapse (17.5%). The 2-year overall survival probability was 63% (95%CI: 49.2-81.4%). The most common toxicities were acute genito-urinary grade 1-2 toxicities. At the last follow-up, four patients experienced focal necrosis. Conclusions: In this cohort of women with PUC undergoing BT, we observed an 80% probability of local control with acceptable morbidity. Though survival was poor, with high metastatic relapse probability, BT was useful to focally escalate the dose and optimize local control in the context of an organ sparing strategy.
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18
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Qin X, Zhang F, Hou X, Yu L, Yu L, Yan J, Qiu J. Efficacy and safety of a 3D-printed applicator for vaginal brachytherapy in patients with central pelvic-recurrent cervical cancer after primary hysterectomy. Brachytherapy 2021; 21:193-201. [PMID: 34980568 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2021.11.004] [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: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Intracavitary and/or interstitial brachytherapy is an integral component of the management of patients with central pelvic-recurrent cervical cancer after primary hysterectomy, and is typically delivered using conventional applicators. We investigated the efficacy and safety of three-dimensional (3D)-printed, customizable applicators for those patients. METHODS AND MATERIALS Twenty-six patients were treated with combination external beam radiotherapy and brachytherapy. Patients with lesions ≤1 and >1 cm before brachytherapy were treated with intracavitary and interstitial brachytherapy, respectively. Dosimetric plans were compared between the vaginal cylinder and 3D-printed applicator for the first 9 patients. Outcomes and treatment-related complications were also investigated. RESULTS The median tumor size before brachytherapy was 0.81 cm. Intracavitary, interstitial, and combined interstitial-intracavitary brachytherapy were performed in 22 (85%), 3 (11%), and 1 (4%) of the patients, respectively. The clinical target volume (CTV) coverage goal was achieved with all 3D-printed plans but failed with three single-channel cylinder plans (33.3%). Owing to 3D-printed transvaginal applicator guidance, there was no need to adjust the needle position after implantation. The mean CTV dose for all patients was 71 ± 8.2 Gy; all met the dose constraints to the organs at risk, but 1 (4%) had a rectal D2cc overdose. The 2-year local control, progression-free survival, and overall survival rates were 87.8%, 71.0%, and 91.6%, respectively. Four patients (21%) developed early grade 3-4 hematological toxicities and 1 (4%) developed a late grade 3 adverse event. CONCLUSIONS High-quality intracavitary and/or interstitial brachytherapy can be achieved using a 3D-printed applicator and yields favorable outcomes with acceptable toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Qin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Fuquan Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaorong Hou
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Lang Yu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Lihua Yu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Junfang Yan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Jie Qiu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
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19
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Dosimetric predictors of local control and complications in gynecologic transperineal implant patients: The medical college of wisconsin experience. Brachytherapy 2021; 21:94-109. [PMID: 34937684 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2021.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Investigate the relationship between dosimetric parameters with local control (LC) and complications following transperineal high-dose rate (HDR) interstitial brachytherapy (ISBT) for gynecologic (GYN) malignancies. METHODS AND MATERIALS Between 2001 and 2016, 59 patients were treated for primary or recurrent GYN malignancies. Most patients received external beam irradiation, followed by transperineal ISBT via the Syed-Neblett applicator set with CT-based planning. Treatment plans were retrospectively reviewed to evaluate for an association among LC or toxicity with the equivalent dose at 2 Gy per fraction (EQD2) for the clinical target volume (CTV), 0.1 cc (D0.1cc), and 2 cc (D2cc) volumes of the organs at risk (OAR), low/high dose volumes for the OAR and CTV, and ratio of dose at the core vs. the implant periphery. RESULTS The median follow-up among survivors was 24 months. 34% of patients had a component of local failure and in 12%, this was isolated. Late grade 3 (G3) toxicity occurred in 15% of patients. There were no G4-5 toxicities. Rectal D0.1cc > 75 Gy trended toward significance in predicting the development of non-fistula late G2-3 rectal complications. Bladder D0.1cc > 94 Gy significantly predicted for the development of late G2-3 vesicovaginal fistula formation. The ratio of the total dose at the vaginal surface to the needle periphery above 121% trended in predicting for any complication or fistula formation. CONCLUSIONS HDR ISBT combined with EBRT achieved LC in 66% of patients with advanced or recurrent GYN cancers. Rectal and bladder D0.1cc doses may be predictive of complications as may the ratio of the implant dose at the core vs. periphery.
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20
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Role of radiotherapy in the treatment of primary vaginal cancer: Recommendations of the French society for radiation oncology. Cancer Radiother 2021; 26:292-297. [PMID: 34955415 DOI: 10.1016/j.canrad.2021.11.014] [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: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Primary vaginal cancers are rare tumours, for which external beam radiotherapy and brachytherapy are major treatment tools. Given the complexity of brachytherapy techniques, the treatment should be performed in specialised centres. We present the recommendations of the French society for radiation oncology on the indications and techniques for external beam radiotherapy and brachytherapy for primary vaginal cancer.
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21
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Shiao JC, Santoso A, Stuhr K, Bennett SJ, Gao D, Holt DE, Robin T, Fisher CM. Gynecologic interstitial brachytherapy curriculum using a low-cost phantom with ultrasound workshop and a treatment planning workshop is effective. Brachytherapy 2021; 21:110-119. [PMID: 34876360 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2021.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S) Standardized simulation training geared towards interstitial brachytherapy (IS BT) for gynecologic malignancies is lacking in radiation oncology resident education. We developed and implemented a curriculum for IS BT training with (1) lecture on equipment, workflow, and guidelines, (2) hands-on ultrasound-guided IS BT workshop, and (3) treatment planning workshop. METHODS AND MATERIAL The cost in materials of each phantom was approximately $66. After a lecture, two alternating workshops were performed. The first session consisted of a hands-on ultrasound-guided IS BT workshop with one resident imaging the phantom with a transabdominal ultrasound probe and the other resident implanting the phantom with needles. A second session consisted of a hands-on treatment planning workshop using BrachyVision and an l-Q spreadsheet with the following objectives: coverage goal, meeting D2cc constraints, and minimizing V200. The primary outcome was improvement in knowledge assessed with Likert-style questions and objective knowledge-based questions (KBQs). RESULTS Four of the seven medical residents that participated in this curriculum had prior IS BT experience. Residents reported significantly improved knowledge regarding gynecologic IS BT equipment and procedure, evaluating gynecologic anatomy using ultrasound, CT simulation, contouring, and plan review (overall median pre-session subjective score 2 (1) -(3) versus post-session score 4 (3) -(4, p < 0.01). Residents demonstrated improvement in answering KBQs correctly from 44% correct at baseline to 88% after completion of the curriculum (p < 0.01). All residents "Agree" and "Strongly Agree" the session was an effective learning experience. CONCLUSIONS Residents participating in phantom training with an ultrasound curriculum and a treatment planning session is effective for improving knowledge and skills in IS BT for radiation oncology residents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay C Shiao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Colorado Cancer Center, Aurora, CO
| | - Andrew Santoso
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Colorado Cancer Center, Aurora, CO
| | - Kelly Stuhr
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Colorado Cancer Center, Aurora, CO
| | | | - Dexiang Gao
- Department of Statistics, University of Colorado Cancer Center, Aurora, CO
| | - Douglas E Holt
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Colorado Cancer Center, Aurora, CO
| | - Tyler Robin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Colorado Cancer Center, Aurora, CO
| | - Christine M Fisher
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Colorado Cancer Center, Aurora, CO.
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22
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Cozma AI, Martell K, Ravi A, Barnes E, Donovan E, Paudel M, Leung E, Taggar A. Relationship of Urethral Dose and Genitourinary Toxicity Among Patients Receiving Vaginal High Dose Rate Interstitial Brachytherapy. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2021; 33:773-779. [PMID: 34092463 DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2021.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Interstitial brachytherapy (ISBT) plays an important role in the management of locally advanced gynaecological malignancies. However, the relationship between urinary toxicity and dose to the urethra is not well understood. We sought to evaluate the correlation between urethral dose and the incidence of genitourinary complications among patients undergoing vaginal high dose rate ISBT. MATERIALS AND METHODS Eighty-three patients treated with ISBT between August 2014 and April 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. CTCAE version 5.0 was used to grade toxicity. Individual treatment plans were evaluated to collect dose parameters. Urethral contours were added to the structure sets using a uniform 1 cm diameter brush and minimum doses to the hottest 0.1, 0.2 and 0.5 cm3 (D0.1cm3, D0.2cm3 and D0.5cm3) of the urethra were obtained. Total (ISBT ± external beam radiotherapy) equivalent doses in 2 Gy fractions (EQD2) received by the targets and organs at risk were calculated. Numerical counts (%) and medians (interquartile range) were used to characterise the data. Fisher's exact and the Mann-Whitney-Wilcox tests were used as appropriate. Receiver operator curve analysis was used to define the urethral threshold dose that correlated to genitourinary toxicity. RESULTS The median age and follow-up times were 67 years (59-75) and 25 months (16-37), respectively. Patients had predominantly primary endometrial (49%) and vaginal (37%) cancer, with four (5%) patients with metastatic rectal cancer to the vagina. Twenty-four of 79 (30%) patients experienced acute genitourinary toxicity and 34 of 71 (48%) experienced late genitourinary toxicity. In both analyses, the median urethral dose was significantly higher among those with toxicity. Receiver operator curve analysis indicated that D0.1cm3, D0.2cm3 and D0.5cm3 of the urethra were associated with the development of toxicity at doses >78, >71 and >62 Gy, respectively. CONCLUSION Urethral dose seems to predict genitourinary toxicity in ISBT of vaginal tumours. Further study with an expanded cohort and longer follow-up is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- A I Cozma
- University of Toronto, Department of Radiation Oncology, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - K Martell
- University of Calgary, Department of Radiation Oncology, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - A Ravi
- University of Toronto, Department of Radiation Oncology, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Sunnybrook Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - E Barnes
- University of Toronto, Department of Radiation Oncology, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Sunnybrook Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - E Donovan
- University of Toronto, Department of Radiation Oncology, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Sunnybrook Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - M Paudel
- University of Toronto, Department of Radiation Oncology, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Sunnybrook Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - E Leung
- University of Toronto, Department of Radiation Oncology, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Sunnybrook Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - A Taggar
- University of Toronto, Department of Radiation Oncology, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Sunnybrook Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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Stein R, Ganeshan D, Gopireddy DR, Chaudhry A, Kumar S, Bande K, Bhosale P, Lall C. Current update on vaginal malignancies. Abdom Radiol (NY) 2021; 46:5353-5368. [PMID: 34338815 DOI: 10.1007/s00261-021-03228-z] [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: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Primary vaginal cancers are rare and account for 1-3% of all gynecologic malignancies. There are several histological subtypes that affect a wide range of the population. Imaging plays an important role in the diagnosis, staging, and treatment planning of vaginal cancers. This article reviews the relevant anatomy, clinical findings, imaging characteristics, and recent advances in the management of vaginal malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Stein
- Department of Radiology, University of Florida School of Medicine - Jacksonville, 655 West 8th Street, C90, 2nd Floor, Clinical Center, Jacksonville, FL, 32209, USA.
| | | | - Dheeraj Reddy Gopireddy
- Department of Radiology, University of Florida School of Medicine - Jacksonville, 655 West 8th Street, C90, 2nd Floor, Clinical Center, Jacksonville, FL, 32209, USA
| | - Ammar Chaudhry
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Sindhu Kumar
- Department of Radiology, University of Florida School of Medicine - Jacksonville, 655 West 8th Street, C90, 2nd Floor, Clinical Center, Jacksonville, FL, 32209, USA
| | - Karthik Bande
- Department of Radiology, University of Texas McGovern Medical School at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Priya Bhosale
- Department of Abdominal Imaging, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Chandana Lall
- Department of Radiology, University of Florida School of Medicine - Jacksonville, 655 West 8th Street, C90, 2nd Floor, Clinical Center, Jacksonville, FL, 32209, USA
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24
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Shah C, Vicini F, Beriwal S, Thaker N, Frank SJ, Rossi P, Orio P, Chang AJ, Joshi N, Campbell SR, Naghavi A, Chao S, Kamrava M, Deufel CL, Mourtada F, Suh JH. American brachytherapy society radiation oncology alternative payment model task force: Quality measures and metrics for brachytherapy. Brachytherapy 2021; 21:63-74. [PMID: 34732290 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2021.10.003] [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: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 09/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Brachytherapy is an essential technique to deliver radiation therapy and is involved in the treatment of multiple disease sites as monotherapy or as an adjunct to external beam radiation therapy. With a growing focus on the cost and value of cancer treatments as well new payment models, it is essential that standardized quality measures and metrics exist to allow for straightforward assessment of brachytherapy quality and for the development of clinically significant and relevant clinical data elements. We present the American Brachytherapy Society consensus statement on quality measures and metrics for brachytherapy as well as suggested clinical data elements. METHODS AND MATERIALS Members of the American Brachytherapy Society with expertise in disease site specific brachytherapy created a consensus statement based on a literature review and clinical experience. RESULTS Key quality measures (ex. workup, clinical indications), dosimetric metrics, and clinical data elements for brachytherapy were evaluated for each modality including breast cancer, cervical cancer, endometrial cancer, prostate cancer, keratinocyte carcinoma, soft tissue sarcoma, and uveal melanoma. CONCLUSIONS This consensus statement provides standardized quality measures and dosimetric quality metrics as well as clinical data elements for each disease site to allow for standardized assessments of brachytherapy quality. Moving forward, a similar paradigm can be considered for external beam radiation therapy as well, providing comprehensive radiation therapy quality measures, metrics, and clinical data elements that can be incorporated into new payment models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chirag Shah
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH.
| | | | - Sushil Beriwal
- Department of Radiation Oncology, UPMC Hillman cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Nikhil Thaker
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Arizona Oncology, Tucson, AZ
| | - Steven J Frank
- Department of Radiation Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | | | - Peter Orio
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | - Albert J Chang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Nikhil Joshi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Rush University, Chicago, IL
| | - Shauna R Campbell
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
| | - Arash Naghavi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL
| | - Samuel Chao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
| | - Mitchell Kamrava
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
| | | | - Firas Mourtada
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Helen F. Graham Cancer Center, ChristianaCare, Newark, DE
| | - John H Suh
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH
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25
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Harkenrider MM, Albuquerque K, Brown D, Kamrava M, King M, Mourtada F, Orio P, Patel R, Price M, Rassiah P, Solanki AA, Small W, Schechter NR. ACR-ABS-ASTRO practice parameter for the performance of radionuclide-based high-dose-rate brachytherapy. Brachytherapy 2021; 20:1071-1082. [PMID: 34588143 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2021.08.009] [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: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This practice parameter aims to detail the processes, qualifications of personnel, patient selection, equipment, patient and personnel safety, documentation, and quality control and improvement necessary for an HDR brachytherapy program. METHODS AND MATERIALS This practice parameter was revised collaboratively by the American College of Radiology (ACR), the American Brachytherapy Society (ABS), and the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO). RESULTS Brachytherapy is a radiotherapeutic modality in which radionuclide or electronic sources are used to deliver a radiation dose at a distance of up to a few centimeters by surface, intracavitary, intraluminal, or interstitial application. Brachytherapy alone or combined with external beam radiotherapy plays an important role in the management and treatment of patients with cancer. High-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy uses radionuclides, such as iridium-192, at dose rates of ≥12 Gy/hr to a designated target point or volume, and it is an important treatment for a variety of malignant and benign conditions. Its use allows for application of high doses of radiation to defined target volumes with relative sparing of adjacent critical structures. CONCLUSIONS HDR brachytherapy requires detailed attention to personnel, equipment, patient and personnel safety, and continuing staff education. Coordination between the radiation oncologist and treatment planning staff and effective quality assurance procedures are important components of successful HDR brachytherapy programs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kevin Albuquerque
- UT Southwestern Medical Center, Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, Dallas, TX
| | | | | | - Martin King
- Brigham and Women's Hospital/Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | | | - Peter Orio
- Brigham and Women's Hospital/Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | | | - Michael Price
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY
| | - Prema Rassiah
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | | | - William Small
- Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL
| | - Naomi R Schechter
- Keck Medical Center of USC, Norris Comprehensive Cancer, Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
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26
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Ansari S, Liao Y, Dewdney S, Wang D, Barry P. Vaginal oligometastatic disease of colorectal primary: Report of a novel therapeutic approach. Rare Tumors 2021; 13:20363613211044566. [PMID: 34589190 PMCID: PMC8474297 DOI: 10.1177/20363613211044566] [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: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaginal oligometastatic disease of colorectal primary is a rare malignancy with few
reported cases in the literature and no standardized treatment paradigm. We report on the
definitive management of an unusual case of an elderly woman with the aforementioned
disease. A 78-year-old African-American woman presented with vaginal spotting and was
found to have a vaginal lesion. Final pathology was consistent with moderately
differentiated adenocarcinoma of colorectal primary. Extensive work up, which included
endoscopies, pathologic analyzes, and imaging workup, did not reveal a primary
gastrointestinal malignancy. The patient underwent partial vaginectomy and final pathology
once again confirmed moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma of colorectal primary (CDX 2
and CEA positive, ER/PR, and CK 7 negative) with negative margins. She went on to receive
adjuvant concurrent chemoradiation with 5-FU based chemotherapy. She received 45 Gy in 25
fractions to the whole pelvis followed by an HDR brachytherapy boost to 12 Gy in two
fractions. Unfortunately, 10 months after completing radiation, she was found to have
adenocarcinoma arising from a hepatic flexure colon polyp on colonoscopy. She required
definitive surgical resection and was staged as mpT3N0M1. She received 12 cycles of 5-FU
and at 2-year follow-up was found to be disease free with no evidence of locoregional
recurrence or distant metastatic disease. Continued long-term follow up is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sobiya Ansari
- Radiation Oncology, SUNY Downstate, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Yixiang Liao
- Medical Physics, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Summer Dewdney
- Gynecology Oncology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Dian Wang
- Radiation Oncology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Parul Barry
- Hillman Cancer Center, Magee-Womens Hospital, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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27
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Clinical outcomes of distal vaginal and vulvar cancer treated with image-guided brachytherapy. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2021; 13:419-425. [PMID: 34484356 PMCID: PMC8407257 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2021.108596] [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: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To evaluate treatment outcomes with image-guided brachytherapy (IGBT) for distal vaginal and vulvar cancers. Material and methods Women treated for distal vaginal or vulvar malignancies utilizing IGBT were retrospectively reviewed, and acute and late toxicities were retrospectively graded. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed. Results Eighteen patients were included, out of which, twelve patients (66.7%) were with primary disease of the distal vagina and vulva, most commonly squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva (n = 8, 66.7%), and six with recurrent disease, most commonly recurrent endometrial carcinoma (n = 5, 83.3%). All patients received external beam radiation (EBRT) to a median dose of 45 Gy in 25 fractions, followed by IGBT (range of 15 to 27.5 Gy in 3 to 5 fractions). Mean follow-up was 20.6 months. Mean dose to high-risk clinical target volume (HR-CTV) D90 was 72.4 Gy. Mean D2cc for the rectum, bladder, and urethra were 50 Gy, 50.6 Gy, and 62.9 Gy, respectively. Five patients (27.8%) recurred. Three patients (16.7%) had local recurrence, 1 patient (5.6%) had distant recurrence only, and 1 patient (5.6%) had simultaneous regional and distant recurrence. Grade 3 acute toxicities included 1 (5.6%) vaginal stenosis, 6 (33.3%) dermatitis/mucositis, 2 (11.1%) vaginal pain, and 1 (5.6%) vaginal/vulvar infection. Grade 3 late toxicities comprised 3 (17.7%) cases of vaginal pain and 1 (5.9%) skin/vaginal necrosis. There were no grade 4 or higher toxicities. Conclusions Definitive radiation therapy in the form of EBRT and IGBT provides meaningful loco-regional control in women with distal vaginal and vulvar cancers, with mainly skin and vaginal toxicity.
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Risk factors for venous thromboembolism induced by prolonged bed rest during interstitial brachytherapy for gynecological cancer: a retrospective study. Radiat Oncol 2021; 16:121. [PMID: 34187506 PMCID: PMC8243450 DOI: 10.1186/s13014-021-01840-3] [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: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Screening and management of venous thromboembolism (VTE) after surgery is important in preventing sublethal VTE. However, the risk factors for VTE during interstitial brachytherapy (ISBT) remain unknown, and appropriate screening and management strategies are yet to be established. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the risk factors for VTE resulting from requisite bed rest during ISBT for gynecologic cancers.
Methods We retrospectively analyzed 47 patients. For patients without definitive preceding radiotherapy, whole pelvic irradiation (30–50 Gy) followed by ISBT of 12–30 Gy/2–5 fx/1–3 days was administered to CTV D90. For patients with preceding radiotherapy, 36–42 Gy/6–7 fx/3–4 days was delivered by ISBT alone. The supine position was required during ISBT. D-dimer (DD) was measured at initial presentation, 1 week before ISBT, pre-ISBT, on the day of, and the day following needle removal. Patients were divided into three groups according to the risk of VTE and were managed accordingly; Group 1: DD was not detected (negative) before ISBT, Group 2: VTE was not detected on venous ultrasound imaging, although DD was positive before ISBT, and Group 3: VTE was detected (positive) before ISBT. An intermittent pneumatic compression device was used during ISBT; for the patients without VTE before ISBT. Heparin or oral anticoagulants were administered to patients with VTE before ISBT. Results Overall, the median values of DD pre-ISBT, on the day of, and on the day following needle removal were 1.0 (0.4–5.8), 1.1 (0.5–88.9), and 1.5 (0.7–40.6) μg/mL, respectively. After ISBT, no patients had deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in groups 1 and 2. In group 3, 7 of 14 patients experienced worsening of VTE but remained asymptomatic. In univariate analysis, DVT diagnosed before ISBT, Caprini score ≥ 7, and difference in DD values between pre-ISBT and the day of or the day following needle removal ≥ 1 were associated with the incidence or worsening of VTE. Conclusion DD should be measured before and after ISBT to detect the incidence or worsening of VTE in patients with DVT. The Caprini score may help in the prediction of VTE during or after ISBT.
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Morén B, Larsson T, Tedgren ÅC. Optimization in treatment planning of high dose-rate brachytherapy - Review and analysis of mathematical models. Med Phys 2021; 48:2057-2082. [PMID: 33576027 DOI: 10.1002/mp.14762] [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: 08/09/2019] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Treatment planning in high dose-rate brachytherapy has traditionally been conducted with manual forward planning, but inverse planning is today increasingly used in clinical practice. There is a large variety of proposed optimization models and algorithms to model and solve the treatment planning problem. Two major parts of inverse treatment planning for which mathematical optimization can be used are the decisions about catheter placement and dwell time distributions. Both these problems as well as integrated approaches are included in this review. The proposed models include linear penalty models, dose-volume models, mean-tail dose models, quadratic penalty models, radiobiological models, and multiobjective models. The aim of this survey is twofold: (i) to give a broad overview over mathematical optimization models used for treatment planning of brachytherapy and (ii) to provide mathematical analyses and comparisons between models. New technologies for brachytherapy treatments and methods for treatment planning are also discussed. Of particular interest for future research is a thorough comparison between optimization models and algorithms on the same dataset, and clinical validation of proposed optimization approaches with respect to patient outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- 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 Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.,Medical Radiation Physics and Nuclear Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Oncology Pathology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
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Interstitial brachytherapy for gynecologic malignancies: Complications, toxicities, and management. Brachytherapy 2021; 20:995-1004. [PMID: 33789823 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2020.12.008] [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: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
From both a disease and management perspective, locally advanced gynecologic cancers present a significant challenge. Dose escalation with brachytherapy serves as a key treatment, providing conformal radiation while sparing at-risk organs. Intracavitary brachytherapy techniques have been shown to be effective, with improving tumor control and toxicity profiles with the advent of three-dimensional image planning. Despite this, the variations in tumor size, location, and pelvic anatomy may lead to suboptimal dosimetry with standard intracavitary applicators in some clinical scenarios. The addition of interstitial needles (interstitial brachytherapy (ISBT)) can improve the conformality of brachytherapy treatments by adding needles to peripheral (and central) regions of the target volume, improving the ability to escalate doses in these undercovered regions while sparing organs at risk. Interstitial brachytherapy can be delivered by intracavitary and interstitial hybrid applicators (ICBT/ISBT), perineal template (P-ISBT), or by free-hand technique. ISBT has however yet to be widely available because of concerns of complications and toxicities from this specialized treatment. However, with the increasing use of three-dimensional image-guided brachytherapy, there is an opportunity to increase the level of expertise in the gynecologic radiation oncology community with an improved understanding of the potential complications and morbidity. In this article, we review the acute and long-term toxicity in both ICBT/ISBT and P-ISBT using image-guided brachytherapy.
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Westerveld H, Schmid MP, Nout RA, Chargari C, Pieters BR, Creutzberg CL, Sturdza A, Lindegaard JC, van Kesteren Z, Mazeron R, Nesvacil N, Fokdal LU. Image-Guided Adaptive Brachytherapy (IGABT) for Primary Vaginal Cancer: Results of the International Multicenter RetroEMBRAVE Cohort Study. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:1459. [PMID: 33806733 PMCID: PMC8004779 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13061459] [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: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study assessed outcomes following the nowadays standing treatment for primary vaginal cancer with radio(chemo)therapy and image-guided adaptive brachytherapy (IGABT) in a multicenter patient cohort. METHODS Patients treated with computer tomography (CT)-MRI-assisted-based IGABT were included. Retrospective data collection included patient, tumor and treatment characteristics. Late morbidity was assessed by using the CTCAE 3.0 scale. RESULTS Five European centers included 148 consecutive patients, with a median age of 63 years. At a median follow-up of 29 months (IQR 25-57), two- and five-year local control were 86% and 83%; disease-free survival (DFS) was 73% and 66%, and overall survival (OS) was 79% and 68%, respectively. Crude incidences of ≥ grade-three urogenital, gastro-intestinal and vaginal morbidity was 8%, 3% and 8%, respectively. Lymph node metastasis was an independent prognostic factor for disease-free survival (DFS). Univariate analysis showed improved local control in patients with T2-T4 tumors if >80 Gy EQD2α/β10 was delivered to the clinical target volume (CTV) at the time of brachytherapy. CONCLUSIONS In this large retrospective multicenter study, IGABT for primary vaginal cancer resulted in a high local control with acceptable morbidity. These results compared favorably with two-dimensional (2D) radiograph-based brachytherapy and illustrate that IGABT plays an important role in the treatment of vaginal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henrike Westerveld
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location AMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (B.R.P.); (Z.v.K.)
| | - Maximilian P. Schmid
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (M.P.S.); (A.S.); (N.N.)
| | - Remi A. Nout
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 Leiden, The Netherlands; (R.A.N.); (C.L.C.)
- Department of Radiotherapy, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, 3015 Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cyrus Chargari
- Brachytherapy Unit, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris Saclay, 94805 Villesuif, France;
| | - Bradley R. Pieters
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location AMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (B.R.P.); (Z.v.K.)
| | - Carien L. Creutzberg
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 Leiden, The Netherlands; (R.A.N.); (C.L.C.)
| | - Alina Sturdza
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (M.P.S.); (A.S.); (N.N.)
| | - Jacob C. Lindegaard
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark; (J.C.L.); (L.U.F.)
| | - Zdenko van Kesteren
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location AMC, University of Amsterdam, 1105 Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (B.R.P.); (Z.v.K.)
| | - Renaud Mazeron
- Brachytherapy Unit, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris Saclay, 94805 Villesuif, France;
| | - Nicole Nesvacil
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria; (M.P.S.); (A.S.); (N.N.)
| | - Lars U. Fokdal
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark; (J.C.L.); (L.U.F.)
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Novel use of a vaginal cylinder purposed dually as obturator and localiser for stereotactic ablative radiotherapy delivery. JOURNAL OF RADIOTHERAPY IN PRACTICE 2021. [DOI: 10.1017/s1460396921000169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background:
Vaginal cancer is a rare malignancy that poses a challenge to treat and cure, as surgical excision requires life-changing procedures because of the proximity and involvement of rectum, bladder and anus. We report in this case study the successful delivery of stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) for a patient with vaginal cancer after previous radiotherapy.
Methods:
A 71-year-old white female who presented with dyspareunia and irritative urinary symptoms proven by biopsy was our candidate patient. Subsequent PET/CT revealed a hypermetabolic 3 cm lesion at the 12–1 o’clock position in the distal vagina involving the clitoris. The patient was initially treated with volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) with simultaneous integrated boost technique to the involved nodes, and later upon recurrence treated with SABR using 30 Gy in six fractions.
Findings:
To our knowledge, this is the first report of a vaginal cylinder used to physically distance organs at risk from the treatment target and also as a localising device with image guidance for the delivery of SABR using an external beam.
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33
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Preliminary results of modified interstitial MIAMI brachytherapy applicator for treatment of upper and apical vaginal tumors. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2021; 12:562-571. [PMID: 33437304 PMCID: PMC7787207 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2020.101689] [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: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Intracavitary vaginal brachytherapy (VBT) cylinders are limited in treating upper/apical vaginal disease due to the distance between the target and radiation source positions. Interstitial brachytherapy devices directly expose the vaginal mucosa to radiation sources, increasing morbidity. To target apical disease while limiting excessive treatment to the vaginal mucosa and organs at risk, we modified the commercially available multichannel MIAMI applicator, allowing the direct extension of needles into the apex with the protection of cylinder. Material and methods The device has one central plastic core with six peripheral channels. The modified device permits titanium needles to surpass the apical surface into vaginal tissue. A retrospective analysis on thirteen patients treated with this device was conducted. Patient demographics, gross tumor volume (GTV)/clinical target volume (CTV), initial diagnosis and management, toxicity data, and EQD2 data for the bladder and rectum were obtained. Results There were ten patients with vaginal recurrences and three with primary vaginal/cervical cancers. Mean dosage of VBT treatment was 25.5 Gy in 3-5 fractions. Mean dosage of external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) treatment was 44 Gy. Common acute toxicities included diarrhea, fatigue, cystitis, and nausea. Common chronic toxicities were pelvic pain, vaginal stenosis, and skin telangiectasia. Mean EQD2 dose for bladder and rectum were 72.3 Gy and 62.3 Gy, respectively. Ten patients had no evidence of relapse, two suffered from distant metastases, and one patient with stage IIIA cervical adenocarcinoma had loco-regional recurrence seventeen months after radiation treatment. Conclusions Our data suggests that the custom applicator is associated with robust dosimetric coverage, good loco-regional control, acceptable toxicity, and reduced tissue trauma. This device allows treatment of apically located vaginal tumors without significant damage to the vaginal vault and organs at risk. Additionally, it provides the flexibility to treat multiple patients with variable vaginal diameters and sizes/depths of apical tumors using a single device.
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Fabian A, Krug D, Alkatout I. Radiotherapy and Its Intersections with Surgery in the Management of Localized Gynecological Malignancies: A Comprehensive Overview for Clinicians. J Clin Med 2020; 10:E93. [PMID: 33383960 PMCID: PMC7796321 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10010093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Surgery, including minimally invasive surgery, and radiotherapy are key modalities in the treatment of gynecological malignancies. The aim of this review is to offer the multidisciplinary care team a comprehensive summary of the intersections of surgery and radiotherapy in the local treatment of gynecological malignancies. Recent advances in radiotherapy are highlighted. Relevant publications were identified through a review of the published literature. Ovarian, endometrial, cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancer were included in the search. Current guidelines are summarized. The role of radiotherapy in adjuvant as well as definitive treatment of these entities is synthesized and put into context with surgery, focusing on survival and quality of life. Although these outcomes have improved recently, further research must be focused on the number of life years lost, and the potential morbidity encountered by patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Fabian
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Arnold-Heller-Str. 3, 24105 Kiel, Germany;
| | - David Krug
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Arnold-Heller-Str. 3, 24105 Kiel, Germany;
| | - Ibrahim Alkatout
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Arnold-Heller-Str. 3, 24105 Kiel, Germany
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Joseph J, Krishnapriya P, Jagathnath Krishna KM, James FV, Kumar A, Mathews S. Outcome of Definitive Treatments in Primary Vaginal Cancer Patients: An Institutional Review. INDIAN JOURNAL OF GYNECOLOGIC ONCOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s40944-020-00452-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Verma R, Jain GK, Chougule A. Implementation of safety and security standards for high dose rate brachytherapy sealed radioactive source used in a medical radiation facility. RADIATION MEDICINE AND PROTECTION 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.radmp.2020.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
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Dosimetry of a sonolucent material for an ultrasound-compatible gynecologic high-dose-rate brachytherapy cylinder using Monte Carlo simulation and radiochromic film. Brachytherapy 2020; 20:265-271. [PMID: 33039331 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2020.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE he purpose of this study was to study the dosimetric characterization of sonolucent material "TPX" to be used toward gynecologic high-dose-rate brachytherapy treatments using ultrasound-compatible cylinders in non-model-based dose calculation workflows. METHODS Monte Carlo simulations were performed using EGSnrc application egs_brachy in cylinders of polymethylpentene (TPX) plastic, water, and PMMA. Simulations were performed of five 192Ir sources placed longitudinally in ∼3.7 cm diameter, 5.0 cm length cylinders (matching physical cylinders used in film measurements). TPX and PMMA dose distributions and percentage depth dose curves were compared relative to water. Film measurements were performed to validate egs_brachy simulations. TPX and PMMA cylinders were placed in a water tank using 3D-printed supports to position film radially and touching the surface of the cylinders. The same five 192Ir dwell positions were delivered as simulated in egs_brachy. RESULTS The egs_brachy and film percentage depth doses agreed within film uncertainties. The egs_brachy relative dose difference between TPX and water was (0.74 ± 0.09)% and between PMMA and water was (-0.79 ± 0.09)% over the dose scoring phantom. Dose differences for TPX and PMMA relative to water were less than ± 1% within 5 cm of the cylinder surface. CONCLUSIONS In a solid sonolucent sheath of TPX, the dosimetric differences are comparable with PMMA and other applicator materials in clinical use. No additional uncertainty to dose calculation is introduced when treating through TPX cylinders compared with current applicator materials, and therefore, it is acceptable to perform gynecologic brachytherapy treatments with a sonolucent sheath inserted during radiation delivery.
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The impact of brachytherapy boost and radiotherapy treatment duration on survival in patients with vaginal cancer treated with definitive chemoradiation. Brachytherapy 2020; 20:75-84. [PMID: 33008762 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2020.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Vaginal cancer is a rare tumor that is optimally treated with a combination of chemotherapy (CHT) and radiation therapy. Because of the rarity of this cancer, the benefit of a brachytherapy boost (BT) and the relevance of radiotherapy time to treatment completion (TTC) are unclear. METHODS Patients diagnosed between 2004 and 2015 with non-metastatic vaginal cancer treated with definitive CHT and external beam radiotherapy with or without BT but with no surgery were identified in the National Cancer Database. Overall survival (OS) was assessed with Kaplan-Meier curves, and differences between groups were compared with the log-rank test. A Cox model was constructed to evaluate survival after controlling for confounders. A Cox model using a penalized spline function was constructed to evaluate how the length of radiation therapy correlated with OS among patients receiving BT. RESULTS A total of 1094 patients who met the inclusion criteria were identified. The utilization of BT was associated with improved 5-year OS (62.9% vs. 49.3%, p = 0.0126) on propensity score-weighted analyses. TTC of 63 days or less was associated with improved 5-year OS (67.8% vs. 54.5%, p = 0.0031) in patients who underwent BT. Other factors associated with improved OS in patients who received CHT, external beam radiotherapy, and BT were younger age, absent comorbidity score, and negative lymph nodes. CONCLUSIONS A brachytherapy boost and shorter TTC were associated with a survival benefit in a cohort of patients with non-metastatic vaginal cancer treated with definitive chemoradiotherapy.
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Elledge CR, Beriwal S, Chargari C, Chopra S, Erickson BA, Gaffney DK, Jhingran A, Klopp AH, Small W, Yashar CM, Viswanathan AN. Radiation therapy for gynecologic malignancies during the COVID-19 pandemic: International expert consensus recommendations. Gynecol Oncol 2020; 158:244-253. [PMID: 32563593 PMCID: PMC7294297 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2020.06.486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop expert consensus recommendations regarding radiation therapy for gynecologic malignancies during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS An international committee of ten experts in gynecologic radiation oncology convened to provide consensus recommendations for patients with gynecologic malignancies referred for radiation therapy. Treatment priority groups were established. A review of the relevant literature was performed and different clinical scenarios were categorized into three priority groups. For each stage and clinical scenario in cervical, endometrial, vulvar, vaginal and ovarian cancer, specific recommendations regarding dose, technique, and timing were provided by the panel. RESULTS Expert review and discussion generated consensus recommendations to guide radiation oncologists treating gynecologic malignancies during the COVID-19 pandemic. Priority scales for cervical, endometrial, vulvar, vaginal, and ovarian cancers are presented. Both radical and palliative treatments are discussed. Management of COVID-19 positive patients is considered. Hypofractionated radiation therapy should be used when feasible and recommendations regarding radiation dose, timing, and technique have been provided for external beam and brachytherapy treatments. Concurrent chemotherapy may be limited in some countries, and consideration of radiation alone is recommended. CONCLUSIONS The expert consensus recommendations provide guidance for delivering radiation therapy during the COVID-19 pandemic. Specific recommendations have been provided for common clinical scenarios encountered in gynecologic radiation oncology with a focus on strategies to reduce patient and staff exposure to COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christen R Elledge
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sushil Beriwal
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Cyrus Chargari
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Villejuif, France
| | - Supriya Chopra
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai, India
| | - Beth A Erickson
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - David K Gaffney
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Anuja Jhingran
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Ann H Klopp
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - William Small
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Loyola University Chicago, Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL, USA
| | - Catheryn M Yashar
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Akila N Viswanathan
- Department of Radiation Oncology and Molecular Radiation Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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Skinner LB, Niedermayr T, Prionas N, Perl J, Fahimian B, Kidd EA. Intensity modulated Ir-192 brachytherapy using high-Z 3D printed applicators. Phys Med Biol 2020; 65:155018. [PMID: 32521512 DOI: 10.1088/1361-6560/ab9b54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Gynecologic cancers are often asymmetric, yet current Ir-192 brachytherapy techniques provide only limited radial modulation of the dose. The shielded solutions investigated here solve this by providing the ability to modulate between highly asymmetric and radially symmetric dose distributions at a given location. To find applicator designs that can modulate between full dose and less than 50% dose, at the dimensions of the urethra, a 2D calculation algorithm was developed to narrow down the search space. Two shielding design types were then further investigated using Monte Carlo and Boltzmann-solver dose calculation algorithms. 3D printing techniques using ISO 10993 certified biocompatible plastics and 3D printable tungsten-loaded plastics were tested. It was also found that shadowing effects set by the shape of the shielding cannot be easily modulated out, hence careful design is required. The shielded applicator designs investigated here, allow for reduction of the dose by over 50% at 5 mm from the applicator surface in desired regions, while also allowing radially symmetric dose with isodose line deviations less than 0.5 mm from circular. The shielding designs were also chosen with treatment delivery time in mind. Treatment times for these shielded designs were found to be less than 1.4 times longer than a 6-channel unshielded cylinder for the equivalent fully symmetric dose distribution. The 2D calculation methods developed here provide a simple way to rapidly evaluate shielding designs, while the 3D printing techniques also allow for devices with novel shapes to be rapidly prototyped. Both TOPAS Monte Carlo and Acuros BV calculations show that significant dose shaping and organ at risk sparing can be achieved without significantly compromising the plan in regions that require the full dose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrie B Skinner
- Radiation Oncology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States of America
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Westerveld H, Nesvacil N, Fokdal L, Chargari C, Schmid MP, Milosevic M, Mahantshetty UM, Nout RA. Definitive radiotherapy with image-guided adaptive brachytherapy for primary vaginal cancer. Lancet Oncol 2020; 21:e157-e167. [PMID: 32135119 DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(19)30855-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Primary vaginal cancer is a rare cancer and clinical evidence to support recommendations on its optimal management is insufficient. Because primary vaginal cancer resembles cervical cancer in many aspects, treatment strategies are mainly adopted from evidence in locally advanced cervical cancer. To date, the organ-sparing treatment of choice is definitive radiotherapy, consisting of external beam radiotherapy and brachytherapy, combined with concurrent chemotherapy. Brachytherapy is an important component of the treatment and its steep dose gradient enables the delivery of high doses of radiation to the primary tumour, while simultaneously sparing the surrounding organs at risk. The introduction of volumetric CT or MRI image-guided adaptive brachytherapy in cervical cancer has led to better pelvic control and survival, with decreased morbidity, than brachytherapy based on x-ray radiographs. MRI-based image-guided adaptive brachytherapy with superior soft-tissue contrast has also been adopted sporadically for primary vaginal cancer. This therapy has had promising results and is considered to be the state-of-the-art treatment for primary vaginal cancer in standard practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henrike Westerveld
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, AMC, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
| | - Nicole Nesvacil
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lars Fokdal
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Cyrus Chargari
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Université Paris Saclay, France; Institut de Recherche Biomédicale des Armées, Brétigny-sur-Orge, France
| | - Maximilian P Schmid
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michael Milosevic
- Radiation Medicine Program, Department of Radiation Oncology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre and Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Umesh M Mahantshetty
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Remi A Nout
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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Itami J. Modern development of high-dose-rate brachytherapy. Jpn J Clin Oncol 2020; 50:490-501. [PMID: 32134450 DOI: 10.1093/jjco/hyaa029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2000] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Brachytherapy is an invasive therapy with placement of radiation source into or near the tumor. The difference between planning target volume and clinical target volume is minimal, and the dose out of the tumor reduces rapidly due to the inverse-square law. High-dose-rate brachytherapy enables three-dimensional image guidance, and currently, tumor dose as well as doses of the surrounding normal structures can be evaluated accurately. High-dose-rate brachytherapy is the utmost precision radiation therapy even surpassing carbon ion therapy. Biological disadvantages of high-dose rate have been overcome by the fractional irradiation. High-dose-rate brachytherapy is indispensable in the definitive radiation therapy of cervical cancer. Also in prostate cancer and breast cancer, high-dose-rate brachytherapy plays a significant role. Brachytherapy requires techniques and skills of radiation oncologists at the time of invasive placement of the radiation source into the tumor area. Education of young radiation oncologists is most urgent and important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Itami
- Department of Radiation Oncology, National Cancer Center Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
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Williams VM, Kahn JM, Harkenrider MM, Chino J, Chen J, Fang LC, Dunn EF, Fields E, Mayadev JS, Rengan R, Petereit D, Dyer BA. COVID-19 impact on timing of brachytherapy treatment and strategies for risk mitigation. Brachytherapy 2020; 19:401-411. [PMID: 32359937 PMCID: PMC7172676 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2020.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to highlight the importance of timely brachytherapy treatment for patients with gynecologic, breast, and prostate malignancies, and provide a framework for brachytherapy clinical practice and management in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS AND MATERIALS We review amassing evidence to help guide the management and timing of brachytherapy for gynecologic, breast, and prostate cancers. Where concrete data could not be found, peer-reviewed expert opinion is provided. RESULTS There may be a significant negative impact on oncologic outcomes for patients with gynecologic malignancies who have a delay in the timely completion of therapy. Delay of prostate or breast cancer treatment may also impact oncologic outcomes. If a treatment delay is expected, endocrine therapy may be an appropriate temporizing measure before delivery of radiation therapy. The use of shorter brachytherapy fractionation schedules will help minimize patient exposure and conserve resources. CONCLUSIONS Brachytherapy remains a critical treatment for patients and may shorten treatment time and exposure for some. Reduced patient exposure and resource utilization is important during COVID-19. Every effort should be made to ensure timely brachytherapy delivery for patients with gynecologic malignancies, and endocrine therapy may help temporize treatment delays for breast and prostate cancer patients. Physicians should continue to follow developing institutional, state, and federal guidelines/recommendations as challenges in delivering care during COVID-19 will continue to evolve.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jenna M Kahn
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR
| | | | - Junzo Chino
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Duke University, Durham, VA
| | - Jonathan Chen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - L Christine Fang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Emily F Dunn
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Willamette Valley Cancer Institute and Research Center, Eugene, OR
| | - Emma Fields
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
| | - Jyoti S Mayadev
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Ramesh Rengan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Daniel Petereit
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Monument Health Cancer Care Institute, Rapid City, SD
| | - Brandon A Dyer
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA.
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Bajwa HK, Singareddy R, Talluri AK, Guntupalli R, Raju AK, Sresty M, Ahmed A. Development of an indigenous low-cost multichannel cylinder applicator for vaginal tumors. Brachytherapy 2020; 19:674-678. [PMID: 32540330 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2020.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Revised: 03/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to report our experience regarding the development of a low-cost multichannel vaginal cylinder applicator for superficial and recurrent vaginal tumors. METHODS AND MATERIALS The applicator mold was created by applying heated wax sheets in layers around a plastic tube. Interstitial stainless-steel needles were placed at equal distance around the mold surface to create multiple channels for treatment. Two plans were created using CT images for a patient with a recurrent tumor over the posterior vaginal wall for comparing single-channel and multichannel cylinder dosimetry. The doses received by the target (high risk clinical target volume) and organs at risk (OARs) were computed using dose-volume histograms. RESULTS There was no significant difference in terms of the prescribed dose delivered to high risk clinical target volume between the two plans. The volume of the target receiving 150 and 200 percent (V150 and V200) dose was higher in the multichannel cylinder plan than the single-channel cylinder plan. In terms of doses to the OARs, there was no significant difference between the rectum doses (D2cc rectum). There was a significant reduction in the dose to the bladder (D2cc bladder), urethra (D0.1cc urethra), and uninvolved vagina (D2cc uninvolved vagina). CONCLUSIONS Multichannel vaginal cylinders reduce doses to the OARs as compared with the single-channel vaginal cylinder in superficial vaginal lesions limited to the wall of the vagina. Their use is limited by the cost of the applicator. Our low-cost multichannel vaginal cylinder can be used as a reliable alternative in such situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harjot Kaur Bajwa
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Basavatarakam Indo American Cancer Hospital and Research Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Rohith Singareddy
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Basavatarakam Indo American Cancer Hospital and Research Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
| | - Anil Kumar Talluri
- Department of Radiation Physics, Basavatarakam Indo American Cancer Hospital and Research Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Rajeev Guntupalli
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Basavatarakam Indo American Cancer Hospital and Research Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Alluri Krishnam Raju
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Basavatarakam Indo American Cancer Hospital and Research Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Madhusudhana Sresty
- Department of Radiation Physics, Basavatarakam Indo American Cancer Hospital and Research Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Ameer Ahmed
- Department of Radiation Therapy, Basavatarakam Indo American Cancer Hospital and Research Institute, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
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Mohindra P, Beriwal S, Kamrava M. Proposed brachytherapy recommendations (practical implementation, indications, and dose fractionation) during COVID-19 pandemic. Brachytherapy 2020; 19:390-400. [PMID: 32423787 PMCID: PMC7252026 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2020.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Pranshu Mohindra
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | - Sushil Beriwal
- Department of Radiation Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Mitchell Kamrava
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA.
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Murofushi K, Yoshioka Y, Sumi M, Ishikawa H, Oguchi M, Sakurai H. Outcomes analysis of pre-brachytherapy MRI in patients with locally advanced cervical cancer. Int J Gynecol Cancer 2020; 30:473-479. [PMID: 32165406 DOI: 10.1136/ijgc-2019-000925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 01/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Various brachytherapy options are available for treating cervical cancer. This study investigated whether pre-brachytherapy magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings could help identify the appropriate brachytherapy technique for cervical cancer. METHODS We retrospectively evaluated patients with cervical cancer who underwent pre-brachytherapy MRI within 7 days before their first high-dose rate brachytherapy treatment between December 2009 and September 2015. Patients who could not undergo MRI at pre-treatment and/or pre-brachytherapy and complete radical radiotherapy were excluded. Conventional intracavitary brachytherapy was the preferred treatment for ≤4 cm and symmetrical tumors. Non-conventional intracavitary brachytherapy, including interstitial brachytherapy, was the preferred treatment for bulky tumors, asymmetrical tumors, tumors with severe vaginal invasion, or bulky barrel-shaped tumors. The 3-year rates of overall survival, disease-free survival, and local control were compared using the Kaplan-Meier method and the log-rank test. Overall survival and local control rates were assessed using Cox regression analysis to identify risk factors for poor overall survival and local control outcomes. RESULTS A total of 146 patients were included in the study. The median tumor sizes were 52 mm (range 17-85) at the pre-treatment MRI and 30 mm (range 0-78) at the pre-brachytherapy MRI. Six patients had International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage IB2, 67 patients had stage II, 64 patients had stage III, and nine patients had stage IVA disease. A total of 124 (85%) patients had squamous cell carcinoma and 22 (15%) patients had adenosquamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma. The MRI findings showed severe vaginal invasion (pre-treatment: 19 patients, pre-brachytherapy: 10 patients), asymmetrical bulky tumors (pre-treatment: 28 patients, pre-brachytherapy: 16 patients), and severe corpus invasion (pre-treatment: 39 patients, pre-brachytherapy: 18 patients). Based on the pre-brachytherapy MRI findings, non-conventional intracavitary brachytherapy was administered to 34 (23.3%) patients. Brachytherapy seemed to be appropriate for 133 (91.1%) patients and inappropriate for 13 (8.9%) patients. The 3-year rates were 84.2% for overall survival and 90.1% for local control. Grade 3 late rectal complications occurred in two (1%) patients. Multivariate analysis showed that tumor characteristics (size, shape, and extent of invasion) were not risk factors, although inappropriate brachytherapy was significantly related to poor local control (p<0.001). CONCLUSION Pre-brachytherapy MRI may help to select appropriate brachytherapy for cervical cancer and reduce the likelihood of inappropriate brachytherapy leading to poor local control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiko Murofushi
- Department of Radiation Oncology & Proton Medical Research Center, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan .,Radiation Oncology Department, The Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasuo Yoshioka
- Radiation Oncology Department, The Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Minako Sumi
- Radiation Oncology Department, The Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Ishikawa
- Department of Radiation Oncology & Proton Medical Research Center, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Masahiko Oguchi
- Radiation Oncology Department, The Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Sakurai
- Department of Radiation Oncology & Proton Medical Research Center, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
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Huynh-Le MP, Simon AB, Hoopes DJ, Einck JP, Yashar CM, Scanderbeg D, Rash D, Brown D, Mell LK, Sanghvi PR, Mundt AJ, Pawlicki T, Mayadev JS. Implementation of peer-review quality rounds for gynecologic brachytherapy in a high-volume academic center. Brachytherapy 2020; 19:881-888. [PMID: 31917179 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2019.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Revised: 11/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE While peer review is critical for quality and safety in radiotherapy, there are neither formal guidelines nor format examples for brachytherapy (BT) peer review. We report on a gynecologic BT peer-review method implemented at a high-volume academic center. METHODS AND MATERIALS We analyzed discussions at bimonthly gynecologic BT peer-review rounds between July and December 2018. Rounds consisted of 2-5 attending physicians with gynecologic BT expertise, 1-2 BT physicists, and trainees. Peer-review targets included clinical case review, contours, implant technique, dose/fractionation, and target/organ-at-risk (OAR) dosimetry. The projected/final target and OAR dosimetry were analyzed. RESULTS 55 separate implants from 44 patients were reviewed. Implants were mostly reviewed after the first BT fraction (n = 16, 29%) or at another time point during BT (n = 20, 36%). One (2%) implant was presented prospectively. The applicator type and BT technique were reviewed for all implants. Dose/fractionation was evaluated for 46 implants (84%); contours were discussed for 21 (38%). Target and OAR dosimetry were reviewed for 54 (98%) and 28 implants (51%), respectively. Six cases (11%) underwent minor changes to the applicator type to improve target and/or OAR dosimetry. One case (2%) had a major change recommended to the dose/fractionation. CONCLUSIONS Gynecologic BT peer review may enhance BT quality by allowing for implant optimization and formal review of challenging cases, ultimately improving medical decision-making and team communication. Peer review should be implemented in centers offering gynecologic BT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minh-Phuong Huynh-Le
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Aaron B Simon
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - David J Hoopes
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - John P Einck
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Catheryn M Yashar
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Daniel Scanderbeg
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Dominique Rash
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Derek Brown
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Loren K Mell
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Parag R Sanghvi
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Arno J Mundt
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Todd Pawlicki
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Jyoti S Mayadev
- Department of Radiation Medicine and Applied Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA.
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Romano E, Janati S, Monnier L, Darai É, Bendifallah S, Schlienger M, Touboul E, Rivin Del Campo E, Huguet F. Outcomes of vaginal squamous cell carcinoma of patients treated with radiation therapy: a series of 37 patients from a single expert center. Clin Transl Oncol 2019; 22:1345-1354. [PMID: 31873914 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-019-02264-y] [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: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim is to assess the outcome of patients treated for vaginal carcinoma with radiation therapy in terms of long-term tolerance and survival. MATERIALS AND METHODS This single-center retrospective study included patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the vagina treated with pelvic external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) with or without vaginal brachytherapy (VB) between 1990 and 2013. RESULTS Thirty-seven patients were included with stage I (24%), II (60%), III (8%), or IV (8%) vaginal tumors. Median age was 66 years (range 27-86 years). Median tumor size was 4 cm (range 0.7-12 cm). Seven patients underwent first intention surgery. The 37 patients received pelvic EBRT (45 Gy) with inguinal irradiation in 57% of cases. Fifteen (41%) received concurrent chemotherapy. Low-dose supplemental VB was performed in 31 patients (84%) (median dose: 20 Gy). Median follow-up was 59 months (range 7-322 months). Four patients (11%) had late grade 3-4 complications. Relapse occurred in 11 patients (30%), five of them locally. The 5-year relapse-free and cancer-specific survival rates were 68% and 76%, respectively. Surgery and concurrent chemotherapy did not seem to have an impact on the course of the disease. CONCLUSION In our experience, pelvic EBRT leads to prolonged survival with acceptable long-term toxicity in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the vagina.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Romano
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tenon University Hospital, Hôpitaux Universitaires Est Parisien, Sorbonne University Medical Facult, 4, rue de la Chine, 75020, Paris, France
| | - S Janati
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cheikh Zaid International University Hospital, Rabat, Morocco
| | - L Monnier
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tenon University Hospital, Hôpitaux Universitaires Est Parisien, Sorbonne University Medical Facult, 4, rue de la Chine, 75020, Paris, France
| | - É Darai
- Department of Obstetric Gynecology, Tenon University Hospital, Hôpitaux Universitaires Est Parisien, Sorbonne University Medical Faculty, UMRS-938, Paris, France
| | - S Bendifallah
- Department of Obstetric Gynecology, Tenon University Hospital, Hôpitaux Universitaires Est Parisien, Sorbonne University Medical Faculty, UMRS-938, Paris, France
| | - M Schlienger
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tenon University Hospital, Hôpitaux Universitaires Est Parisien, Sorbonne University Medical Facult, 4, rue de la Chine, 75020, Paris, France
| | - E Touboul
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tenon University Hospital, Hôpitaux Universitaires Est Parisien, Sorbonne University Medical Facult, 4, rue de la Chine, 75020, Paris, France
| | - E Rivin Del Campo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tenon University Hospital, Hôpitaux Universitaires Est Parisien, Sorbonne University Medical Facult, 4, rue de la Chine, 75020, Paris, France
| | - F Huguet
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tenon University Hospital, Hôpitaux Universitaires Est Parisien, Sorbonne University Medical Facult, 4, rue de la Chine, 75020, Paris, France.
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49
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Prisciandaro JI, Zhao X, Dieterich S, Hasan Y, Jolly S, Al-Hallaq HA. Interstitial High-Dose-Rate Gynecologic Brachytherapy: Clinical Workflow Experience From Three Academic Institutions. Semin Radiat Oncol 2019; 30:29-38. [PMID: 31727297 DOI: 10.1016/j.semradonc.2019.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
An interstitial brachytherapy approach for gynecologic cancers is typically considered for patients with lesions exceeding 5 mm within tissue or that are not easily accessible for intracavitary applications. Recommendations for treating gynecologic malignancies with this approach are available through the American Brachytherapy Society, but vary based on available resources, staffing, and logistics. The intent of this manuscript is to share the collective experience of 3 academic centers that routinely perform interstitial gynecologic brachytherapy. Discussion points include indications for interstitial implants, procedural preparations, applicator selection, anesthetic options, imaging, treatment planning objectives, clinical workflows, timelines, safety, and potential challenges. Interstitial brachytherapy is a complex, high-skill procedure requiring routine practice to optimize patient safety and treatment efficacy. Clinics planning to implement this approach into their brachytherapy practice may benefit from considering the discussion points shared in this manuscript.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joann I Prisciandaro
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan/Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI.
| | - Xiao Zhao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA
| | - Sonja Dieterich
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California Davis Medical Center, Sacramento, CA
| | - Yasmin Hasan
- Department of Radiation and Cellular Oncology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Shruti Jolly
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan/Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Hania A Al-Hallaq
- Department of Radiation and Cellular Oncology, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
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50
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Leung E, D'Souza D, Bachand F, Han K, Alfieri J, Huang F, Vigneault E, Barkati M, Wiebe EM, Foster W, Fortin I, Velker V, Bowes D, Barnes E, Patil N, Banerjee R, Barbera L, Ravi A. MRI-based interstitial brachytherapy for vaginal tumors: A multi-institutional study on practice patterns, contouring, and consensus definitions of target volumes. Brachytherapy 2019; 18:598-605. [PMID: 31230941 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2019.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Interstitial brachytherapy (ISBT) can be effective for vaginal tumors due to its ability to deliver conformal treatment with 3D planning. As there is no consensus for 3D vaginal brachytherapy (BT) contouring, the goals of this study are to evaluate the variability in practices and contouring, and to develop consensus concepts on target definitions. METHODS A survey/contouring study was conducted with 16 radiation oncologists from 10 Canadian academic centers. The study included three vaginal ISBT cases. Participants were provided staging, prebrachytherapy (pre-BT), and BT MRIs. Participants responded to a questionnaire and contoured on the provided images. Agreement between contours was analyzed. A meeting was held to develop consensus definitions of targets. RESULTS Median ISBT experience was 3.5 years. All 16 participants regularly contour with MRI, whereas three also plan on MRI. For the three cases, there was variation into how CTVHR and CTVIR was defined. Kappa statistics showed higher agreement with bulky tumors (mean 0.59) as compared with small residual tumors (mean 0.29). For all cases, kappa was highest in pre-BT GTVres as compared with BT GTVres (mean 0.58, 0.46). Consensus concepts to define targets were developed. CONCLUSIONS Variations exist in how ISBT targets are defined for vaginal tumors. Highest contouring variability was seen with small residual at BT. Contouring is more consistent on pre-BT MRI as compared with BT MRI suggesting a needle distortion effect. Consensus CTVHR and CTVIR definitions have been developed and further work is warranted to establish international standards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Leung
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Odette Cancer Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | - David D'Souza
- Department of Oncology, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Francois Bachand
- Department of Radiation Oncology, BC Cancer, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Kathy Han
- Radiation Medicine Program, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Joanne Alfieri
- Department of Radiation Oncology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Fleur Huang
- Department of Oncology, Cross Cancer Institute, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Eric Vigneault
- Department of Radiation Oncology, CHU de Québec Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Ontario, Canada
| | - Maroie Barkati
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Ericka M Wiebe
- Department of Oncology, Cross Cancer Institute, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - William Foster
- Department of Radiation Oncology, CHU de Québec Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Ontario, Canada
| | - Israel Fortin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Vikram Velker
- Department of Oncology, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - David Bowes
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Nova Scotia Cancer Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Barnes
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Odette Cancer Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Nikhilesh Patil
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Nova Scotia Cancer Centre, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Robyn Banerjee
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Lisa Barbera
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Tom Baker Cancer Centre, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ananth Ravi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Odette Cancer Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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