Towards Accurate and Precise Image-Guided Radiotherapy: Clinical Applications of the MR-Linac.
J Clin Med 2022;
11:jcm11144044. [PMID:
35887808 PMCID:
PMC9324978 DOI:
10.3390/jcm11144044]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Advances in image-guided radiotherapy have brought about improved oncologic outcomes and reduced toxicity. The next generation of image guidance in the form of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) will improve visualization of tumors and make radiation treatment adaptation possible. In this review, we discuss the role that MRI plays in radiotherapy, with a focus on the integration of MRI with the linear accelerator. The MR linear accelerator (MR-Linac) will provide real-time imaging, help assess motion management, and provide online adaptive therapy. Potential advantages and the current state of these MR-Linacs are highlighted, with a discussion of six different clinical scenarios, leading into a discussion on the future role of these machines in clinical workflows.
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