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Wang Y, Zhang F, Hu K, Yu L, Zhang J, Luo C, Yu L, Yan J. CT-guided hydrogel injection for brachytherapy in cervical cancer: A case report. Med Dosim 2024:S0958-3947(24)00024-4. [PMID: 38902140 DOI: 10.1016/j.meddos.2024.04.006] [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: 07/16/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Rectal toxicity is a significant concern in cervical cancer radiotherapy. Despite advancements in image-guided brachytherapy (IGBT), rectal morbidity remains a challenge. Injectable hydrogel showed promise in creating a space between the vagina and rectum, reducing rectal radiation dose; however, the traditional ultrasound-guided injection revealed some problems, such as the inadequate separation of the upper edge of the cervix, which can be mitigated through adopting CT-guided injection. This case report presents the successful use of computed tomography (CT)-guided hydrogel injection to limit rectal doses and improve treatment outcomes. A forty-year-old female with stage IIIC1r cervical cancer received external-beam radiotherapy and concurrent chemotherapy. Due to the proximity of the tumor to the rectum, a CT-guided hydrogel injection was performed to increase the distance between the cervix and rectum. Post-injection, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated increased distances between the cervix and rectum. Subsequent MRI-based IGBT achieved high clinical target volume doses while limiting rectal doses. During the six-month follow-up, the patient reported only mild adverse effects. CT-guided hydrogel injection offers advantages over ultrasound-guided injection in cervical cancer radiotherapy. The technique allows for better puncture position adjustment, reduced reliance on specialized ultrasound expertise, and shorter puncture distances. This case report highlights the potential of hydrogel injection as a viable method to reduce rectal morbidity and improve treatment outcomes in a broader range of cervical cancer patients. Further studies are warranted to validate these findings and explore its applicability in larger cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxuan Wang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China; Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Fuquan Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China; Department of Radiation Oncology, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Ke Hu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Lang Yu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Chunli Luo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Lihua Yu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Junfang Yan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China.
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Onal C, Guler OC, Torun N, Reyhan M. Long-term assessment of clinical parameters and positron emission tomography parameters in predicting recurrence in uterine cervical cancer patients receiving definitive chemoradiotherapy. Nucl Med Commun 2024; 45:203-210. [PMID: 38165168 DOI: 10.1097/mnm.0000000000001800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to assess the prognostic value of clinical factors and metabolic parameters measured using fluorodeoxyglucose PET (FDG-PET/CT) in predicting disease recurrence, as well as distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS), local recurrence-free survival (LRFS), and overall survival (OS) in patients with uterine cervical cancer who received definitive chemoradiotherapy. METHODS The clinical data and FDG-PET parameters, including standardized uptake value (SUV), metabolic tumor volume (MTV), and total lesion glycolysis (TLG) of 194 patients with biopsy-confirmed squamous cell carcinoma of cervical cancer were retrospectively analyzed. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to ascertain prognostic factors associated with DMFS, LRFS, and OS. RESULTS With a median follow-up of 12.5 years, 96 patients (49.5%) presented with disease recurrence, at a median of 9.9 months after chemoradiotherapy. Patients who experienced recurrence had significantly higher values for all FDG-PET parameters compared to patients who did not. In multivariate regression analysis, lymph node metastasis, MTV, and SUV mean were significantly correlated with distant metastasis, while local recurrence was only predicted by SUV max . Lymph node metastasis, high MTV, SUV mean , and TLG predicted shorter DMFS, while only the primary tumor SUV max predicted LRFS. Age, regional nodal metastasis, and higher MTV independently predicted shorter OS in multivariate analysis. CONCLUSION We found that metabolic parameters derived from FDG-PET/CT could serve as surrogates for disease recurrence in patients with cervical cancer who were treated with definitive chemoradiotherapy. Patients at high risk of distant metastasis could be defined using SUV mean and MTV, and for local recurrence, by using SUV max .
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Affiliation(s)
- Cem Onal
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Baskent University Faculty of Medicine, Dr. Turgut Noyan Research and Treatment Center, Adana
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Baskent University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara
| | - Ozan Cem Guler
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Baskent University Faculty of Medicine, Dr. Turgut Noyan Research and Treatment Center, Adana
| | - Nese Torun
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Baskent University Faculty of Medicine, Dr. Turgut Noyan Research and Treatment Center, Adana, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Reyhan
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Baskent University Faculty of Medicine, Dr. Turgut Noyan Research and Treatment Center, Adana, Turkey
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Yen A, Zhong X, Lin MH, Nwachukwu C, Albuquerque K, Hrycushko B. Improved Dosimetry with Daily Online Adaptive Radiotherapy for Cervical Cancer: Waltzing the Pear. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2024; 36:165-172. [PMID: 38246849 DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2024.01.005] [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: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
AIMS Standard of care radiotherapy for locally advanced cervical cancer includes large margins to ensure the uterocervix remains within the treatment fields over the course of treatment. Daily online cone-beam adaptive radiotherapy corrects for interfractional changes by adjusting the plan to match the target position during each treatment session, thus allowing for significantly reduced clinical target volume (CTV) to planning target volume (PTV) margins. We hypothesise that reduced margins from daily online adaptive radiotherapy will reduce organ at risk dose without compromising target coverage. MATERIALS AND METHODS Ten patients with cervical cancer (stage IIB-IIIC2) were treated with definitive chemoradiation using daily online cone-beam adaptive radiotherapy in 25-27 fractions. Initial and all adapted treatment plans were generated with CTV to PTV margins versus standard of care image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT) plans as follows: cervix/uterus/gross tumour volume (0.5 versus 1.5 cm), parametria/vagina (0.5 versus 1.0 cm) and nodal chains and gross nodes (0.5 versus 0.5 cm). IGRT plans were created and copied to synthetic computed tomography scans and contours generated from each daily adapted fraction. The dosimetry of each clinically treated online adapted fraction was compared with emulated IGRT plans. Statistical significance was defined as P < 0.05. RESULTS Daily online cone-beam adaptive radiotherapy significantly improves bowel bag dosimetry compared with IGRT, with a reduction in V40 by an average of 91.3 cm3 [V40 (-6.2%) and V45 (-6.1%)]. The daily adapted plans showed significant improvements in bladder and rectum [V40 (-25.2% and -36.0%) and V30 (-9.7% and -17.1%), respectively]. Additionally, bone marrow had a significantly reduced dose [V10 (-2.7%) and V20 (-3.3%)]. Daily online cone-beam adaptive radiotherapy improved uterocervix CTV coverage and reduced hotspots compared with IGRT [D95% (+1.6%) and Dmax (-0.9%)]. CONCLUSIONS Reduced CTV to PTV margins achievable with daily online adaptive radiotherapy improves organ at risk dosimetry and target coverage when compared with standard of care IGRT for locally advanced cervical cancer. The clinical impact of improved dosimetry is currently undergoing investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Yen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - X Zhong
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - M-H Lin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - C Nwachukwu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - K Albuquerque
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - B Hrycushko
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA.
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Weykamp F, Meixner E, Arians N, Hoegen-Saßmannshausen P, Kim JY, Tawk B, Knoll M, Huber P, König L, Sander A, Mokry T, Meinzer C, Schlemmer HP, Jäkel O, Debus J, Hörner-Rieber J. Daily AI-Based Treatment Adaptation under Weekly Offline MR Guidance in Chemoradiotherapy for Cervical Cancer 1: The AIM-C1 Trial. J Clin Med 2024; 13:957. [PMID: 38398270 PMCID: PMC10889253 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13040957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: External beam radiotherapy (EBRT) and concurrent chemotherapy, followed by brachytherapy (BT), offer a standard of care for patients with locally advanced cervical carcinoma. Conventionally, large safety margins are required to compensate for organ movement, potentially increasing toxicity. Lately, daily high-quality cone beam CT (CBCT)-guided adaptive radiotherapy, aided by artificial intelligence (AI), became clinically available. Thus, online treatment plans can be adapted to the current position of the tumor and the adjacent organs at risk (OAR), while the patient is lying on the treatment couch. We sought to evaluate the potential of this new technology, including a weekly shuttle-based 3T-MRI scan in various treatment positions for tumor evaluation and for decreasing treatment-related side effects. (2) Methods: This is a prospective one-armed phase-II trial consisting of 40 patients with cervical carcinoma (FIGO IB-IIIC1) with an age ≥ 18 years and a Karnofsky performance score ≥ 70%. EBRT (45-50.4 Gy in 25-28 fractions with 55.0-58.8 Gy simultaneous integrated boosts to lymph node metastases) will be accompanied by weekly shuttle-based MRIs. Concurrent platinum-based chemotherapy will be given, followed by 28 Gy of BT (four fractions). The primary endpoint will be the occurrence of overall early bowel and bladder toxicity CTCAE grade 2 or higher (CTCAE v5.0). Secondary outcomes include clinical feasibility, quality of life, and imaging-based response assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Weykamp
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany (J.H.-R.)
- Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology (HIRO), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Eva Meixner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany (J.H.-R.)
- Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology (HIRO), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nathalie Arians
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany (J.H.-R.)
- Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology (HIRO), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Philipp Hoegen-Saßmannshausen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany (J.H.-R.)
- Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology (HIRO), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Ji-Young Kim
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany (J.H.-R.)
- Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology (HIRO), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Bouchra Tawk
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany (J.H.-R.)
- Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology (HIRO), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Division of Molecular and Translational Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Maximilian Knoll
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany (J.H.-R.)
- Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology (HIRO), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Division of Molecular and Translational Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Peter Huber
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Molecular Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Laila König
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany (J.H.-R.)
- Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology (HIRO), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anja Sander
- Institute of Medical Biometry, University of Heidelberg, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Theresa Mokry
- Department of Radiology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Radiology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Clara Meinzer
- Department of Radiology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Heinz-Peter Schlemmer
- Department of Radiology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Oliver Jäkel
- Division of Medical Physics in Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jürgen Debus
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany (J.H.-R.)
- Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology (HIRO), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Heidelberg Ion-Beam Therapy Center (HIT), Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Juliane Hörner-Rieber
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany (J.H.-R.)
- Heidelberg Institute of Radiation Oncology (HIRO), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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5
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Sammouri J, Venkatesan AM, Lin LL, Jhingran A, Klopp AH, Joyner MM, Eifel PJ, Colbert LE. Management and long-term clinical outcomes of patients with stage IVA cervical cancer with bladder involvement. Gynecol Oncol 2024; 180:24-34. [PMID: 38041900 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2023.11.011] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the long-term outcomes of patients with stage IVA cervical cancer, a rare and deadly disease for which long-term toxicity data are scarce, to guide clinician counseling and survivorship support. METHODS In a retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database, we identified 76 patients with stage IVA cervical cancer with biopsy- or MRI-proven bladder mucosal involvement who received definitive radiotherapy (external beam radiotherapy [EBRT] alone or EBRT plus brachytherapy) with or without chemotherapy at our institution between 2000 and 2020. We used Kaplan-Meier modeling to estimate recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) and used proportional hazard modeling to identify clinical variables associated with recurrence or survival. We performed actuarial competing risk modeling for severe late toxicity (grades 3 to 5, occurring >6 months of follow-up) and vesicovaginal fistulae (VVF), censoring for pelvic recurrence and death, and made comparisons between potential predictors using Gray's test and binary logistic regression. RESULTS The median follow-up time was 76 months (interquartile range 58-91). The median OS duration was 35 months (range, 18-not reached), and the 2- and 5-year OS rates were 53.6% and 40.9%, respectively. OS and RFS did not differ significantly between patients who received EBRT alone (N = 18) or EBRT plus brachytherapy (N = 49). Current smoking was a strong predictor of severe late toxicity, whose incidence was 14% at 2 years and 17% at 10 years. The VVF incidence was 24% at 2 years and 32% at 10 years. CONCLUSION Patients with stage IVA cervical cancer, even those who receive EBRT alone, can have long-term survival. These patients should be followed closely for late radiation-related toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Sammouri
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Aradhana M Venkatesan
- Department of Abdominal Imaging, Division of Diagnostic Imaging, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Lilie L Lin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, 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
| | - Melissa M Joyner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Patricia J Eifel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Lauren E Colbert
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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Fields EC, Erickson B, Chino J, Small C, Weiner A, Petereit D, Mayadev JS, Yashar CM, Joyner M. Tipping the Balance: Adding Resources for Cervical Cancer Brachytherapy. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2023; 117:1138-1142. [PMID: 37980140 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2023.06.2516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Emma C Fields
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia.
| | - Beth Erickson
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Junzo Chino
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Christina Small
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
| | - Ashley Weiner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Daniel Petereit
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Monument Health Cancer Care Institute, Rapid City, South Dakota
| | - Jyoti S Mayadev
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, San Diego, California
| | - Catheryn M Yashar
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California, San Diego, California
| | - Melissa Joyner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
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Funderud M, Hoem IS, Guleng MAD, Eidem M, Almberg SS, Alsaker MD, Ståhl-Kornerup J, Frengen J, Marthinsen ABL. Script-based automatic radiotherapy planning for cervical cancer. Acta Oncol 2023; 62:1798-1807. [PMID: 37881003 DOI: 10.1080/0284186x.2023.2267171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to develop fully automated script-based radiotherapy treatment plans for cervical cancer patients, and evaluate them against clinically accepted plans, as validation before clinical implementation. MATERIAL AND METHODS In this retrospective planning study, treatment plans for 25 locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC) patients with up to three dose levels were included. Fully automated plans were created using an in-house developed Python script in RayStation, and compared to clinically accepted manually made plans. Quantitatively, relevant dose statistics were compared, and average dose volume histograms (DVHs) were analyzed. Qualitatively, a blinded plan comparison was conducted between the clinical and automatic plans. The accuracy of treatment plan delivery was verified with the Delta4 Phantom+. RESULTS The quantitative evaluation showed that target coverage was acceptable for all the automatic and clinical plans. The automatic plans were significantly more conformal than the clinical plans; median of 1.03 vs. 1.12. Mean doses to almost all organs at risk (OARs) were reduced in the automatic plans, with a median reduction of between 0.6 Gy and 1.9 Gy. In the blinded plan comparison, the automatic plans were the preferred plans or of equal quality as the clinical plans in 99% of the cases. In addition, plan delivery was excellent, with a mean gamma passing rate of 99.8%. Complete script-based plans were generated in 30-45 min; about four to ten times faster than manually made plans. CONCLUSION The automatic plans had acceptable target coverage, lower doses to almost all OARs, more conformal dose distributions, and were predominantly preferred by the clinicians. Based on these results, our institution has implemented the script for clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marit Funderud
- Department of Radiotherapy, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Ingvild Straumsheim Hoem
- Department of Radiotherapy, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Physics, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | | | - Monika Eidem
- Department of Radiotherapy, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | | | | | | | - Jomar Frengen
- Department of Radiotherapy, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Anne Beate Langeland Marthinsen
- Department of Radiotherapy, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Physics, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
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Pelizzola M, Tanderup K, Chopra S, Jürgenliemk-Schulz IM, Nout R, Kirchheiner K, Spampinato S. Co-occurrence of symptoms after radiochemotherapy in locally advanced cervix cancer patients: a cluster analysis. Acta Oncol 2023; 62:1479-1487. [PMID: 37906286 DOI: 10.1080/0284186x.2023.2271252] [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: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND State of the art combined radiochemotherapy and image-guided brachytherapy for locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC) has shown improved disease control and survival as well as a significant reduction of organ related morbidity. However, LACC cancer survivors are still experiencing a spectrum of symptoms. The aim of this study was to identify co-occurring symptoms in cervix cancer survivors by using patient-reported outcome and physician assessed morbidity. MATERIALS AND METHOD EMBRACE I is a multicenter prospective observational study with 1416 LACC patients (2008-2015). Information on physician-assessed morbidity and patient-reported outcome was assessed at baseline and at regular follow-ups up with the CTCAE v.3 and EORTC-C30/CX24, respectively. Patients with at least 2 years of follow-up were included and data from 3 months to 2 years was used in the analysis. Factor analysis was used on both EORTC and CTCAE data with symptoms and follow-ups as observations. The extracted factors represent clusters of symptoms. Subsequently, regression models were built to investigate associations between the symptom clusters and QOL. RESULTS The analysis included 742 patients. Despite the differences in the definition of physician-assessed and patient-reported symptoms, similar clusters are identified by the two assessment methods. Three main organ-related clusters are recognized for urinary, gastro-intestinal and vaginal morbidity. Furthermore, a general symptoms cluster where fatigue, pain, insomnia, neuropathy, and hot flashes have large weights is found. Lastly, a cluster with nausea, vomit and lack of appetite is also identified. The general, gastrointestinal and nausea clusters show significant associations with general QOL. CONCLUSIONS This analysis on both PRO and physician-assessed morbidity found a cluster associated with general symptoms and organ-related symptom clusters (urinary, gastrointestinal, vaginal). This shows that LACC survivors experience a variety of co-occurring symptoms. Our analysis also shows that the cluster of general symptoms is associated with a decrease in QOL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Pelizzola
- Danish Centre for Particle Therapy, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Kari Tanderup
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Supriya Chopra
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Advanced Centre for Treatment Research and Education in Cancer, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Navi Mumbai, India
| | - Ina M Jürgenliemk-Schulz
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, CX, The Netherlands
| | - Remi Nout
- Department of Radiotherapy, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kathrin Kirchheiner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sofia Spampinato
- Danish Centre for Particle Therapy, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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9
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Chargari C, Tanderup K, Planchamp F, Chiva L, Humphrey P, Sturdza A, Tan LT, van der Steen-Banasik E, Zapardiel I, Nout RA, Fotopoulou C. ESGO/ESTRO quality indicators for radiation therapy of cervical cancer. Radiother Oncol 2023; 183:109589. [PMID: 37268359 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2023.109589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The European Society of Gynaecological Oncology (ESGO) has previously defined and established a list of quality indicators for the surgical treatment of cervical cancer. As a continuation of this effort to improve overall quality of care for cervical cancer patients across all aspects, ESGO and the European SocieTy for Radiotherapy and Oncology (ESTRO) initiated the development of quality indicators for radiation therapy of cervical cancer. OBJECTIVE To develop a list of quality indicators for radiation therapy of cervical cancer that can be used to audit and improve clinical practice by giving to practitioners and administrators a quantitative basis to improve care and organizational processes, notably for recognition of the increased complexity of modern external radiotherapy and brachytherapy techniques. METHODS Quality indicators were based on scientific evidence and/or expert consensus. The development process included a systematic literature search for identification of potential quality indicators and documentation of scientific evidence, consensus meetings of a group of international experts, an internal validation process, and external review by a large international panel of clinicians (n = 99). RESULTS Using a structured format, each quality indicator has a description specifying what the indicator is measuring. Measurability specifications are detailed to define how the quality indicators will be measured in practice. Targets were also defined for specifying the level which each unit or center should be aiming to achieve. Nineteen structural, process, and outcome indicators were defined. Quality indicators 1-6 are general requirements related to pretreatment workup, time to treatment, upfront radiation therapy, and overall management, including active participation in clinical research and the decision making process within a structured multidisciplinary team. Quality indicators 7-17 are related to treatment indicators. Quality indicators 18 and 19 are related to patient outcomes. DISCUSSION This set of quality indicators is a major instrument to standardize the quality of radiation therapy in cervical cancer. A scoring system combining surgical and radiotherapeutic quality indicators will be developed within an envisaged future ESGO accreditation process for the overall management of cervical cancer, in an effort to support institutional and governmental quality assurance programs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Luis Chiva
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinica Universidad de Navarra, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pauline Humphrey
- University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Alina Sturdza
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Christian Doppler Laboratory for Medical Radiation Research for Radiation Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | - Li T Tan
- Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | | | | | - Remi A Nout
- Radiotherapy, Erasmus MC Cancer Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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10
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Chargari C, Tanderup K, Planchamp F, Chiva L, Humphrey P, Sturdza A, Tan LT, van der Steen-Banasik E, Zapardiel I, Nout RA, Fotopoulou C. ESGO/ESTRO quality indicators for radiation therapy of cervical cancer. Int J Gynecol Cancer 2023:ijgc-2022-004180. [PMID: 37258414 DOI: 10.1136/ijgc-2022-004180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The European Society of Gynaecological Oncology (ESGO) has previously defined and established a list of quality indicators for the surgical treatment of cervical cancer. As a continuation of this effort to improve overall quality of care for cervical cancer patients across all aspects, ESGO and the European SocieTy for Radiotherapy and Oncology (ESTRO) initiated the development of quality indicators for radiation therapy of cervical cancer. OBJECTIVE To develop a list of quality indicators for radiation therapy of cervical cancer that can be used to audit and improve clinical practice by giving to practitioners and administrators a quantitative basis to improve care and organizational processes, notably for recognition of the increased complexity of modern external radiotherapy and brachytherapy techniques. METHODS Quality indicators were based on scientific evidence and/or expert consensus. The development process included a systematic literature search for identification of potential quality indicators and documentation of scientific evidence, consensus meetings of a group of international experts, an internal validation process, and external review by a large international panel of clinicians (n=99). RESULTS Using a structured format, each quality indicator has a description specifying what the indicator is measuring. Measurability specifications are detailed to define how the quality indicators will be measured in practice. Targets were also defined for specifying the level which each unit or center should be aiming to achieve. Nineteen structural, process, and outcome indicators were defined. Quality indicators 1-6 are general requirements related to pretreatment workup, time to treatment, upfront radiation therapy, and overall management, including active participation in clinical research and the decision making process within a structured multidisciplinary team. Quality indicators 7-17 are related to treatment indicators. Quality indicators 18 and 19 are related to patient outcomes. DISCUSSION This set of quality indicators is a major instrument to standardize the quality of radiation therapy in cervical cancer. A scoring system combining surgical and radiotherapeutic quality indicators will be developed within an envisaged future ESGO accreditation process for the overall management of cervical cancer, in an effort to support institutional and governmental quality assurance programs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Luis Chiva
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinica Universidad de Navarra, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pauline Humphrey
- University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Bristol, UK
| | - Alina Sturdza
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Christian Doppler Laboratory for Medical Radiation Research for Radiation Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Wien, Austria
| | - Li T Tan
- Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | | | | | - Remi A Nout
- Radiotherapy, Erasmus MC Cancer Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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11
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Iselius S, Knutsen A, Mikiver R, Uppugunduri S. Late adverse events in patients with pelvic cancer after oncologic treatment-intervention and treatment effect. Support Care Cancer 2023; 31:263. [PMID: 37055633 PMCID: PMC10102108 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-023-07733-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Few studies have focused on the late adverse events after oncologic treatment in pelvic cancer patients. Here, the treatment effect/interventions were studied on late side effects as GI, sexual, and urinary symptoms in pelvic cancer patients who visited a highly specialized rehabilitation clinic in Linköping. METHODS This retrospective longitudinal cohort study included 90 patients who had at least one visit at the rehabilitation clinic for late adverse events at Linköping University hospital between 2013 to 2019. The toxicity of the adverse events was analyzed by using the common terminology criteria for adverse events (CTCAE). RESULTS By comparing the toxicity of symptoms between visits 1 and 2, we showed that the GI symptoms decreased with 36.6% (P = 0.013), the sexual symptoms with 18.3% (P < 0.0001), and urinary symptoms with 15.5% (P = 0.004). Patients who received bile salt sequestrant had a significant improvement in grade of GI symptoms as diarrhea/fecal incontinence at visit 2 compared to visit 1 where 91.3% were shown to have a treatment effect (P = 0.0034). The sexual symptoms (vaginal dryness/pain) significantly improved due to local estrogens between visits 1 and 2 where 58.1% had a reduction of symptoms (P = 0.0026). CONCLUSION The late side effects as GI, sexual, and urinary symptoms was significantly reduced between visits 1 and 2 at the specialized rehabilitation center in Linköping. Bile salt sequestrants and local estrogens are effective treatments for side effects as diarrhea and vaginal dryness/pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Iselius
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Department of Oncology, Linköping University, S-58185, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Annica Knutsen
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.
- Department of Oncology, Linköping University, S-58185, Linköping, Sweden.
| | - Rasmus Mikiver
- Department of Oncology, Linköping University, S-58185, Linköping, Sweden
- Regional Cancer Centre Southeast, Linköping, Sverige
| | - Srinivas Uppugunduri
- Department of Oncology, Linköping University, S-58185, Linköping, Sweden
- Regional Cancer Centre Southeast, Linköping, Sverige
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12
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Pelvic floor dysfunction and its influencing factors during radiotherapy in cervical cancer survivors: A cross-sectional study. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2023; 64:102307. [PMID: 37141663 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2023.102307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Radiotherapy can negatively affect the pelvic floor function of patients with cervical cancer; however, the impact of different radiotherapy times and other related factors on pelvic floor function in cervical cancer survivors during radiotherapy remains unclear. We aimed to investigate the status of pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) in cervical cancer survivors during radiotherapy and to analyze the factors influencing PFD. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, a convenience sampling method was used to recruit cervical cancer survivors undergoing radiotherapy from January 2022 to July 2022 at a tertiary first-class hospital located in northeastern China. The Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory-Short Form 20 was used for participants' self-report of their PFD during radiotherapy. RESULTS Data from 120 cervical cancer survivors were included in this study. The results showed that the mean PFDI-20 total score was 32.69 ± 7.76. Multiple stepwise linear regression analysis showed that 56.9% of the variance in PFD was explained by age (β = 0.25, p < 0.001), body mass index (β = 0.32, p < 0.001), recurrence (β = 0.29, p < 0.001), number of radiotherapy sessions (β = 0.39, p < 0.001), and number of deliveries (β = 0.35, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION It is important to pay more attention to the PFD status of cervical cancer survivors receiving radiotherapy. Future therapeutic approaches should involve early identification of relevant risk factors early to provide patients with personalized care at different stages of radiotherapy for reducing their discomfort and improving their health-related quality of life.
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13
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Offersen BV, Aznar MC, Bacchus C, Coppes RP, Deutsch E, Georg D, Haustermans K, Hoskin P, Krause M, Lartigau EF, Lee AWM, Löck S, Thwaites DI, van der Kogel AJ, van der Heide U, Valentini V, Overgaard J, Baumann M. The role of ESTRO guidelines in achieving consistency and quality in clinical radiation oncology practice. Radiother Oncol 2023; 179:109446. [PMID: 36566990 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2022.109446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Birgitte Vrou Offersen
- Department of Experimental Clinical Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark; Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark; Danish Center for Particle Therapy, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark.
| | - Marianne C Aznar
- Division of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, United Kingdom
| | - Carol Bacchus
- German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Rob P Coppes
- Department of Biomedical Sciences of Cells & Systems, Section Molecular Cell Biology, Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Eric Deutsch
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Institut d'Oncologie Thoracique (IOT), Gustave Roussy, France
| | - Dieter Georg
- Division Medical Radiation Physics, Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Karin Haustermans
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospitals Leuven, Belgium
| | - Peter Hoskin
- Mount Vernon Cancer Centre and University of Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Mechthild Krause
- Department of Radiotherapy and Radiation Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Germany; OncoRay - National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf, Germany
| | - Eric F Lartigau
- Academic Department of Radiotherapy, Oscar Lambret Comprehensive Cancer Center, Lille, France
| | - Anne W M Lee
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Shenzhen Key Laboratory for Cancer Metastasis and Personalized Therapy, University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital, China
| | - Steffen Löck
- OncoRay - National Center for Radiation Research in Oncology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf, Germany
| | - David I Thwaites
- Institute of Medical Physics, School of Physics, University of Sydney, Australia; Radiotherapy Research Group, St James's Hospital and University of Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Albert J van der Kogel
- Department of Human Oncology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, USA
| | - Uulke van der Heide
- Department of Radiation Oncology, the Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Vincenzo Valentini
- Dipartimento di Diagnostica per Immagini, Radioterapia Oncologica ed Ematologia, UOC Radioterapia Oncologica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A. Gemelli" IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Jens Overgaard
- Department of Experimental Clinical Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
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14
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Spampinato S, Tanderup K, Lindegaard JC, Schmid MP, Sturdza A, Segedin B, Jürgenliemk-Schulz IM, De Leeuw A, Bruheim K, Mahantshetty U, Chargari C, Rai B, Cooper R, van der Steen-Banasik E, Sundset M, Wiebe E, Villafranca E, Van Limbergen E, Pieters BR, Tee Tan L, Lutgens LCHW, Hoskin P, Smet S, Pötter R, Nout R, Chopra S, Kirchheiner K. Association of persistent morbidity after radiotherapy with quality of life in locally advanced cervical cancer survivors. Radiother Oncol 2023; 181:109501. [PMID: 36720348 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2023.109501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To quantify the association of persistent morbidity with different aspects of quality of life (QOL) in locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC) survivors. MATERIAL AND METHODS Longitudinal outcome from the EMBRACE-I study was evaluated. Patient-reported symptoms and QOL were prospectively scored (EORTC-C30/CX24) at baseline and regular follow-ups. Physician-assessed symptoms were also reported (CTCAEv.3). Persistent symptoms were defined if present in at least half of the follow-ups. QOL items were linearly transformed into a continuous scale. Linear mixed-effects models (LMM) were applied to evaluate and quantify the association of persistent symptoms with QOL. Overall QOL deterioration was evaluated by calculating the integral difference in QOL over time obtained with LMM for patients without and with persistent symptoms. RESULTS Out of 1416 patients enrolled, 741 with baseline and ≥ 3 late follow-ups were analyzed (median 59 months). Proportions of persistent EORTC symptoms ranged from 21.8 % to 64.9 % (bowel control and tiredness). For CTCAE the range was 11.3-28.6 % (limb edema and fatigue). Presence of any persistent symptom was associated with QOL, although with varying magnitude. Role functioning and Global health/QOL were the most impaired aspects. Fatigue and pain showed large differences, with reductions of around 20 % for most of the QOL aspects. Among organ-related symptoms, abdominal cramps showed the largest effect. CONCLUSION Persistent symptoms are associated with QOL reductions in LACC survivors. Organ-related symptoms showed smaller differences than general symptoms such as fatigue and pain. In addition to optimizing treatment to minimize organ-related morbidity, effort should be directed towards a more comprehensive and targeted morbidity management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Spampinato
- Danish Center for Particle Therapy, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Kari Tanderup
- Danish Center for Particle Therapy, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Jacob C Lindegaard
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Maximilian P Schmid
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Alina Sturdza
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Barbara Segedin
- Department of Radiotherapy, Institute of Oncology, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Ina M Jürgenliemk-Schulz
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Astrid De Leeuw
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Kjersti Bruheim
- Department of Oncology, Oslo University Hospital, 0450 Oslo, Norway.
| | - Umesh Mahantshetty
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai and Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh 530053, India.
| | - Cyrus Chargari
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, 94805 Villejuif, France.
| | - Bhavana Rai
- Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh 160012, India.
| | - Rachel Cooper
- Leeds Cancer Centre, St James's University Hospital, Leeds LS9 7LP, United Kingdom.
| | | | - Marit Sundset
- Clinic of Oncology and Women's Clinic, St. Olavs Hospital, 7030 Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Ericka Wiebe
- Department of Oncology, Cross Cancer Institute and University of Alberta, Edmonton AB T6G 1Z2, Canada.
| | - Elena Villafranca
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hospital of Navarra, 31008 Pamplona, Navarra, Spain.
| | - Erik Van Limbergen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
| | - Bradley R Pieters
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life, 1081 HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Li Tee Tan
- Oncology Centre, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, United Kingdom.
| | - Ludy C H W Lutgens
- Maastricht Radiation Oncology (MAASTRO) clinic, 6229 ET Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| | - Peter Hoskin
- Mount Vernon Cancer Centre, Mount Vernon Hospital, Northwood HA6 2RN, United Kingdom.
| | - Stéphanie Smet
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Algemeen Ziekenhuis Turnhout, 2300 Turnhout, Belgium.
| | - Richard Pötter
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
| | - Remi Nout
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, the Netherlands.
| | - Supriya Chopra
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Advanced Centre for Treatment Research and Education in Cancer, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Navi Mumbai 410210, India.
| | - Kathrin Kirchheiner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
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15
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Update on Prevalence of Pain in Patients with Cancer 2022: A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15030591. [PMID: 36765547 PMCID: PMC9913127 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15030591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 55.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Experiencing pain and insufficient relief can be devastating and negatively affect a patient's quality of life. Developments in oncology such as new treatments and adjusted pain management guidelines may have influenced the prevalence of cancer pain and severity in patients. This review aims to provide an overview of the prevalence and severity of pain in cancer patients in the 2014-2021 literature period. A systematic literature search was performed using the databases PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane. Titles and abstracts were screened, and full texts were evaluated and assessed on methodological quality. A meta-analysis was performed on the pooled prevalence and severity rates. A meta-regression analysis was used to explore differences between treatment groups. We identified 10,637 studies, of which 444 studies were included. The overall prevalence of pain was 44.5%. Moderate to severe pain was experienced by 30.6% of the patients, a lower proportion compared to previous research. Pain experienced by cancer survivors was significantly lower compared to most treatment groups. Our results imply that both the prevalence of pain and pain severity declined in the past decade. Increased attention to the assessment and management of pain might have fostered the decline in the prevalence and severity of pain.
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16
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Vittrup AS, Kirchheiner K, Pötter R, Fokdal LU, Jensen NBK, Spampinato S, Haie-Meder C, Schmid MP, Sturdza AE, Mahantshetty U, Hoskin P, Segedin B, Bruheim K, Rai B, Wiebe E, van der Steen-Banasik E, Cooper R, Van Limbergen E, Sundset M, Pieters BR, Kirisits C, Lindegaard JC, Jürgenliemk-Schulz IM, Nout R, Tanderup K. Overall Severe Morbidity After Chemo-Radiation Therapy and Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Guided Adaptive Brachytherapy in Locally Advanced Cervical Cancer: Results From the EMBRACE-I Study. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2023:S0360-3016(23)00007-X. [PMID: 36641039 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2023.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate overall severe late morbidity (grade ≥3) in patients with locally advanced cervical cancer treated with chemo-radiation therapy and magnetic resonance image guided adaptive brachytherapy within the prospective EMBRACE-I study, and to compare the results with published literature after standard radiograph based brachytherapy (BT). METHODS AND MATERIALS From 2008 to 2015 the EMBRACE-I study enrolled 1416 patients. Morbidity was assessed (Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 3.0) every 3 months the 1st year, every 6 months the second and third year, and yearly thereafter and 1251 patients had available follow-up on late morbidity. Morbidity events (grade 3-5) were summarized as the maximum grade during follow-up (crude incidence rates) and actuarial estimates at 3 and 5 years. To compare with the published literature on standard radiograph based BT, Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events scores from the EMBRACE-I study were retrospectively converted into a corresponding score in the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group and European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer system. RESULTS In total, 534 severe events occurred in 270 patients; 429 events were grade 3 and 105 were grade 4 events. Actuarial estimates for grade ≥3 gastrointestinal (GI), genitourinary (GU), vaginal and fistula events at 5 years were 8.5% (95% confidence interval [CI], 6.9%-10.6%), 6.8% (95% CI, 5.4%-8.6%), 5.7% (95% CI, 4.3%-7.6%), and 3.2% (95% CI, 2.2%-4.5%), respectively. The 5-year actuarial estimate for organ-related events (GI, GU, vaginal, or fistula) was 18.4% (95% CI, 16.0%-21.2%). The 5-year actuarial estimate when aggregating all G≥3 endpoints (GI, GU, vaginal, fistulas, and non-GI/GU/vaginal) was 26.6% (95% CI, 23.8%-29.6%). Thirteen patients had a treatment-related death, 8 of which were associated with GI morbidity. CONCLUSIONS This report assesses severe morbidity from the largest prospective study on chemo-radiation therapy and image guided adaptive brachytherapy for locally advanced cervical cancer to date. Severe late morbidity was limited per endpoint and organ category, but considerable when aggregated across organs and all endpoints. The late morbidity results in the EMBRACE-I study compare favorably with published literature on standard radiograph based BT for GI morbidity, vaginal morbidity, and fistulas.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kathrin Kirchheiner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna/General Hospital of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Richard Pötter
- Department of Radiation therapy, Gustave-Roussy, Villejuif, France
| | | | | | - Sofia Spampinato
- Department of Oncology Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Maximilian Paul Schmid
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna/General Hospital of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Alina Emiliana Sturdza
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna/General Hospital of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Peter Hoskin
- Cancer Centre, Mount Vernon Hospital, Northwood, United Kingdom
| | - Barbara Segedin
- Department of Radiation therapy, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Kjersti Bruheim
- Department of Oncology, The Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Bhavana Rai
- Department of Radiation therapy and Oncology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Ericka Wiebe
- Department of Oncology, Cross Cancer Institute and University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | | | - Rachel Cooper
- Leeds Cancer Centre, St James's University Hospital, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | | | - Marit Sundset
- Clinic of Oncology and Women's Clinic, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Bradley Rumwell Pieters
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Christian Kirisits
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna/General Hospital of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | - Remi Nout
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Kari Tanderup
- Department of Oncology Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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17
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Skipar K, Hompland T, Lund KV, Løndalen A, Malinen E, Kristensen GB, Lindemann K, Nakken ES, Bruheim K, Lyng H. Risk of recurrence after chemoradiotherapy identified by multimodal MRI and 18F-FDG-PET/CT in locally advanced cervical cancer. Radiother Oncol 2022; 176:17-24. [PMID: 36113778 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.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: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE MRI, applying dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) and diffusion-weighted (DW) sequences, and 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) PET/CT provide information about tumor aggressiveness that is unexploited in treatment of locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC). We investigated the potential of a multimodal combination of imaging parameters for classifying patients according to their risk of recurrence. MATERIALS AND METHODS Eighty-two LACC patients with diagnostic MRI and FDG-PET/CT, treated with chemoradiotherapy, were collected. Thirty-eight patients with MRI only were included for validation of MRI results. Endpoints were survival (disease-free, cancer-specific, overall) and tumor control (local, locoregional, distant). Ktrans, reflecting vascular function, apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), reflecting cellularity, and standardized uptake value (SUV), reflecting glucose uptake, were extracted from DCE-MR, DW-MR and FDG-PET images, respectively. By applying an oxygen consumption and supply-based method, ADC and Ktrans parametric maps were voxel-wise combined into hypoxia images that were used to determine hypoxic fraction (HF). RESULTS HF showed a stronger association with outcome than the single modality parameters. This association was confirmed in the validation cohort. Low HF identified low-risk patients with 95% precision. Based on the 50th SUV-percentile (SUV50), patients with high HF were divided into an intermediate- and high-risk group with high and low SUV50, respectively. This defined a multimodality biomarker, HF/SUV50. HF/SUV50 increased the precision of detecting high-risk patients from 41% (HF alone) to 57% and showed prognostic significance in multivariable analysis for all endpoints. CONCLUSION Multimodal combination of MR- and FDG-PET/CT-images improves classification of LACC patients compared to single modality images and clinical factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kjersti Skipar
- Department of Radiation Biology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Department of Oncology, Telemark Hospital Trust, Skien, Norway; Department of Oncology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tord Hompland
- Department of Radiation Biology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kjersti Vassmo Lund
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ayca Løndalen
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Eirik Malinen
- Department of Medical Physics, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Department of Physics, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Gunnar B Kristensen
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kristina Lindemann
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Esten S Nakken
- Department of Oncology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kjersti Bruheim
- Department of Oncology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Heidi Lyng
- Department of Radiation Biology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Department of Physics, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
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18
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Smits A, Steins M, van Koeverden S, Rundle S, Dekker H, Zusterzeel P. Can MRI Be Used as a Sole Diagnostic Modality in Determining Clinical Stage in Cervical Cancer? Oncologist 2022; 28:e19-e25. [PMID: 36250801 PMCID: PMC9847530 DOI: 10.1093/oncolo/oyac210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to compare staging by MRI to clinical staging in patients with cervical cancer and to determine the histological accuracy of staging by MRI and examination under anesthesia (EUA) in early stage disease. METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study of patients diagnosed with cervical cancer between 2010 and 2020 at the Radboud University Medical Centre, the Netherlands. Pretreatment stage (FIGO 2009) by MRI was compared with staging by EUA. Diagnostic accuracy in terms of sensitivity, specificity, positive, and negative predictive value was calculated for MRI and EUA in patients undergoing surgery (early stage disease) with histological results as a reference standard. RESULTS A total of 358 patients were included in the study and MRI-based stage differed from EUA stage in 30.7%. In 12.3% this meant a discrepancy in treatment assignment between MRI and EUA. Diagnostic accuracy of MRI in terms of sensitivity and specificity for detecting early stage disease was comparable to EUA in surgical patients. Further analyses showed that premenopausal status, early stage disease and a tumor diameter of <2 cm were associated with improved comparability of MRI and EUA (98%). CONCLUSION There is still a large discrepancy between MRI and EUA. In patients with suspected early stage disease, diagnostic accuracy of MRI is similar to EUA, especially for premenopausal women with early stage disease and a tumor diameter of <2 cm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke Smits
- Corresponding author: Anke Smits, PhD, Department Gynecological Oncology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands. Tel: +31243614726; E-mail:
| | - Maud Steins
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Stuart Rundle
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Gateshead, United Kingdom
| | - Heleen Dekker
- Department of Radiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Petra Zusterzeel
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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19
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Extended-field radiotherapy bowel sparing for cervical cancer after surgical staging: Intensity-modulated radiation therapy versus helical tomotherapy. JOURNAL OF RADIATION RESEARCH AND APPLIED SCIENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jrras.2022.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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20
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Chua VH, Yu KK, Chua PA, Chua RJ, Chua RM, Chun YN, Mariano J, Gonzalez G, Ortin TS, Bacorro W. Quality of Life among Survivors of Locally Advanced Cervical Cancer Treated with Definitive Chemoradiotherapy in a Decade of Transition. ASIAN JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1744300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction The standard treatment for locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC) is concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CRT). External beam radiotherapy (EBRT) and brachytherapy (BRT) advances in the last decade have resulted in improved local control and survival. There is a lack of data on quality of life (QoL) among survivors.
Objective This systematic review aimed to synthesize published data on QoL among LACC survivors treated with CRT and determine clinical factors of QoL.
Methods Systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, EBSCO, and ScienceDirect for relevant articles published in 2010 to 2020. Eligible studies on LACC survivors aged 18 years and above, who reported QoL after CRT, were included. Screening and data extraction were done by two pairs of independent reviewers.
Results Five cohort studies, three cross sectional studies, and one clinical trial were included. Reported temporal evolution of QoL varied: two studies reported improvement of overall QoL, while four reported worsening of symptoms. Gastrointestinal, genitourinary, sexual, and psychosocial domains showed significant impairment. Age, stage, and baseline distress and physical condition were clinical determinants of body image, sexual activity, menopausal symptoms, distress, and dyspnea. Peripheral neuropathy, lymphedema, and dyspnea were reported, while grade 3 to 4 gastrointestinal, genitourinary, and musculoskeletal toxicities were rare.
Conclusion Use of advanced EBRT and BRT techniques is associated with improving QoL in the first 3 years from treatment completion. Gastrointestinal, genitourinary, sexual, and psychosocial functions remain impaired on the long-term. Other late toxicities worth noting include peripheral neuropathy, lower limb edema, and insufficiency fractures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vannesza Hendricke Chua
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, University of Santo Tomas, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Manila, Philippines
| | - Kelvin Ken Yu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Santo Tomas Hospital, Benavides Cancer Institute, Manila, Philippines
| | - Patricia Andrea Chua
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, University of Santo Tomas, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Manila, Philippines
| | - Raphael Joseph Chua
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, University of Santo Tomas, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Manila, Philippines
| | - Robeley May Chua
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, University of Santo Tomas, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Manila, Philippines
| | - Yae Na Chun
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, University of Santo Tomas, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Manila, Philippines
| | - Jocelyn Mariano
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Santo Tomas, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Manila, Philippines
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, University of Santo Tomas Hospital, Benavides Cancer Institute, Manila, Philippines
| | - Gil Gonzalez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Santo Tomas, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Manila, Philippines
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, University of Santo Tomas Hospital, Benavides Cancer Institute, Manila, Philippines
| | - Teresa Sy Ortin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Santo Tomas Hospital, Benavides Cancer Institute, Manila, Philippines
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, University of Santo Tomas Hospital, Benavides Cancer Institute, Manila, Philippines
| | - Warren Bacorro
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, University of Santo Tomas, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, Manila, Philippines
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Santo Tomas Hospital, Benavides Cancer Institute, Manila, Philippines
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, University of Santo Tomas Hospital, Benavides Cancer Institute, Manila, Philippines
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21
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Bukkems LJ, Jürgenliemk-Schulz IM, van der Leij F, Peters M, Gerestein CG, Zweemer RP, van Rossum PS. The impact of para-aortic lymph node irradiation on disease-free survival in patients with cervical cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Transl Radiat Oncol 2022; 35:97-103. [PMID: 35669003 PMCID: PMC9166370 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctro.2022.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Standard of care of locally advanced cervical cancer is based on concurrent chemoradiotherapy. Para-aortic radiotherapy (PAO-RT) has become controversial in the chemotherapy era. Systematic review on impact of PAO-RT on disease-free survival yielded 11 studies. Meta-analysis of 3 studies showed pooled adjusted HR of 0.87 (95% CI: 0.79–0.97). Findings support further investigation in prospective controlled trials.
Background Patients with locally advanced cervical cancer without para-aortic lymph node metastases (PAO-LNM) at diagnosis who undergo concurrent chemoradiotherapy are at 4–11% risk of developing PAO-LNM during follow-up. Some studies suggest a beneficial influence of elective para-aortic radiotherapy (PAO-RT) on disease-free survival (DFS) in these patients. The aim of this study was to systematically review and meta-analyse literature on the impact of PAO-RT on DFS in cervical cancer patients. Methods A systematic search of PubMed/MEDLINE and EMBASE databases was performed. The analysis included intervention studies that reported on DFS in patients with cervical cancer who received chemotherapy and pelvic radiotherapy with or without PAO-RT. From each included study, relevant study characteristics and outcome data including the hazard ratio (HR) adjusted for potential confounders were extracted. An overall pooled adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) for DFS after PAO-RT versus no PAO-RT was calculated using a random-effects model. Results A total of 2,016 articles were evaluated. Eleven articles were included in the systematic review, of which 3 were appropriate for quantitative meta-analysis. Pooling of these 3 cohorts (including 1,113 patients) demonstrated a statistically significant association between PAO-RT and DFS (pooled aHR 0.87, 95% confidence interval: 0.79–0.97). No significant heterogeneity among reported aHRs was observed (I2 = 0.0%). Conclusions This meta-analysis suggests a modest but significant beneficial impact of elective para-aortic radiotherapy on DFS in patients with locally advanced cervical cancer who undergo concurrent chemoradiotherapy. This finding based on non-randomized studies provides an imperative for further investigation in prospective controlled trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslie J.H. Bukkems
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ina M. Jürgenliemk-Schulz
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Corresponding authors at: Department of Radiation Oncology, Q00.3.11, University Medical Center Utrecht, PO Box 85500, 3508GA Utrecht, The Netherlands.
| | - Femke van der Leij
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Max Peters
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelis G. Gerestein
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Ronald P. Zweemer
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Peter S.N. van Rossum
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Corresponding authors at: Department of Radiation Oncology, Q00.3.11, University Medical Center Utrecht, PO Box 85500, 3508GA Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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22
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Holmqvist A, Lindahl G, Mikivier R, Uppungunduri S. Age as a potential predictor of acute side effects during chemoradiotherapy in primary cervical cancer patients. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:371. [PMID: 35392858 PMCID: PMC8991473 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-09480-w] [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: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Toxicity during chemoradiotherapy (CRT) in cervical cancer patients might limit the chances of receiving an optimal treatment and to be cured. Few studies have shown relationships between acute side effects and patient’s age. Here, the association between age and acute side effects such as nausea/vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss during CRT was analysed in cervical cancer patients. Methods This study included 93 patients with primary cervical cancer stage IBI to IVA who received CRT from 2013 to 2019. The frequency of symptoms/toxicity grade was analysed by using the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) version 5.0. Results Patients ≥ 52 years had a significantly higher frequency of nausea/vomiting and increased grade ≥ 3 toxicity during CRT compared to younger patients (p < 0.001, p = 0.001). Toxicity grade ≥ 3 of nausea/vomiting was associated with increased frequency of weight loss (p = 0.001), reduced ADL (p = 0.001) and dose modifications of both radiotherapy (RT) (p = 0.020) and chemotherapy (CT) (p = 0.030) compared to toxicity grade 2. The frequency of diarrhea (p = 0.015) and weight loss (p = 0.020) was higher in older patients compared to younger. Conclusions Older patients have an increased risk of acute side effects as nausea/vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss. Age could be useful in predicting acute side effects in primary cervical cancer patients with CRT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annica Holmqvist
- Department of health, medicine and caring siences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden. .,Department of Oncology, S-58185, Linköping, Sweden.
| | - Gabriel Lindahl
- Department of health, medicine and caring siences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.,Department of Oncology, S-58185, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Rasmus Mikivier
- Department of health, medicine and caring siences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.,Regional Cancer Centre Southeast, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Srinivas Uppungunduri
- Department of health, medicine and caring siences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden.,Regional Cancer Centre Southeast, Linköping, Sweden
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23
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Sturdza AE, Knoth J. Image-guided brachytherapy in cervical cancer including fractionation. Int J Gynecol Cancer 2022; 32:273-280. [DOI: 10.1136/ijgc-2021-003056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Image-guided brachytherapy in cervical cancer has been developed to be a feasible and very efficient component of the treatment of locally advanced cervical cancer in addition to concurrent chemoradiation treatment. This technique allows effective dose coverage of the target while sparing the organs at risk through adjustment of the implants (intracavitary and interstitial needles) and multi-pararametric three-dimensional treatment planning. Emerging evidence from prospective studies shows a high rate of local control throughout all stages, superior to two-dimensional brachytherapy, with limited toxicity for each organ site. This is associated with a high rate of pelvic control and overall survival. Based on clinical evidence, there is a dose–effect relationship for both disease and morbidity endpoints from which clear dose constraints for the target and organs at risk were derived. This review gives an overview of the major milestones that occurred in the development of image-guided adaptive brachytherapy in the last two decades, including outcome data and a summary of the hard and soft dose constraints recommended for targets and organs at risk.
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24
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Fields EC, Kahn JM, Singer L. Education in gynecological brachytherapy. Int J Gynecol Cancer 2022; 32:407-413. [DOI: 10.1136/ijgc-2021-002516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Brachytherapy is an essential component in the curative treatment of many gynecological malignancies. In the past decade, advances in magnetic resonance imaging and the ability to adapt and customize treatment with hybrid interstitial applicators have led to improved clinical outcomes with decreased toxicity. Unfortunately, there has been a shift in clinical practice away from the use of brachytherapy in the United States. The decline in brachytherapy is multifactorial, but includes both a lack of exposure to clinical cases and an absence of standardized brachytherapy training for residents. In other medical specialties, a clear relationship has been established between clinical case volumes and patient outcomes, especially for procedural-based medicine. In surgical residencies, simulation-based medical education (SBME) is a required component of the program to allow for some autonomy before operating on a patient. Within radiation oncology, there is limited but growing experience with SBME for training residents and faculty in gynecological brachytherapy. This review includes single institutional, multi-institutional and national initiatives using creative strategies to teach the components of gynecological brachytherapy. These efforts have measured success in various forms; the majority serve to improve the confidence of the learners, and many have also demonstrated improved competence from the training as well. The American Brachytherapy Society launched the 300 in 10 initiative in 2020 with a plan of training 30 competent brachytherapists per year over a 10 year period and has made great strides with a formal mentorship program as well as externships available to senior residents interested in starting brachytherapy programs. Moving forward, these curricula could be expanded to provide standardized brachytherapy training for all residents. SBME could also play a role in initial certification and maintenance of certification. Given the burden of disease, it would be valuable to develop similar training for providers in low and middle income countries.
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25
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Advances in Radiation Oncology for the Treatment of Cervical Cancer. Curr Oncol 2022; 29:928-944. [PMID: 35200578 PMCID: PMC8871036 DOI: 10.3390/curroncol29020079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Over the past two decades, there has been significant advancement in the management of cervical cancer, particularly in the domain of definitive chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC). Indeed, radiation treatment paradigms have shifted from a two-dimensional (2D) approach solely based on anatomical bony landmarks, to an image-guided three-dimensional (3D) approach, with the goal of delivering doses more precisely to clinical targets with an increased sparing of organs-at-risk. Methods: This is a narrative review on the advances in radiation technologies for the treatment of cervical cancer. Using the PubMed database, we identified articles published in English up until November 18, 2021 on the treatment of LACC with external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) and brachytherapy. A search of the Clinicaltrials.gov and Clinicaltrialsregister.eu retrieved information on ongoing clinical trials on the topic of combined immunotherapy and radiotherapy in cervical cancer. Results: We highlight the historical evolution from the use of 2D radiotherapy to 3D-conformal radiotherapy, and then intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) for the delivery of EBRT. We also discuss advances in brachytherapy, notably the transition to 3D image-guided adaptive brachytherapy (3D-IGABT). In this context, we highlight large cohort studies that were recently constructed and have shown significant improvement in local control and treatment-related toxicities with 3D-IGABT. Finally, we discuss other advances in the field, notably the use of stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) as a substitute to brachytherapy, and the addition of immunotherapy to chemoradiation. Conclusions: The use of IG-IMRT and 3D-IGABT have considerably improved treatment outcomes and toxicity profiles for patients with LACC, and are now considered the gold standard in many countries. The use of SBRT boost as a replacement for brachytherapy has been associated with increased toxicity and decreased efficacy and should be used with caution in the context of clinical trials. New experimental approaches include the addition of immunotherapy to chemoradiation regimens.
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26
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Smet S, Spampinato S, Pötter R, Jürgenliemk-Schulz IM, Nout RA, Chargari C, Mahantshetty U, Sturdza A, Segedin B, Bruheim K, Hoskin P, Rai B, Huang F, Cooper R, Van der Steen-Banasik E, Sundset M, Van Limbergen E, Tan LT, Lutgens LCHW, Villafranca E, Pieters BR, Tanderup K, Kirchheiner K. Risk factors for late persistent fatigue after chemoradiotherapy in locally advanced cervical cancer: an analysis from the EMBRACE-I study. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2021; 112:1177-1189. [PMID: 34838868 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2021.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Objective To evaluate patient- and treatment-related risk factors for late persistent fatigue within the prospective, multi-center XXX study. Methods Fatigue was prospectively assessed (CTCAE v.3) at baseline and during regular follow-up in 993 locally advanced cervical cancer patients, after treatment with chemoradiotherapy and MRI-guided brachytherapy. Risk factors for baseline and late persistent fatigue were evaluated with multivariable logistic regression. Late persistent fatigue was defined, when either G≥1 or G≥2 was scored in at least half of follow-ups. Results Median follow-up was 57 months. Baseline fatigue G≥1/G≥2 (35.8%/6.3%, respectively) was associated with pre-existing co-morbidities, WHO Performance Status, underweight, severe pain and tumor volume. Late persistent G≥1/G≥2 fatigue (36.3%/5.8%, respectively) was associated with patient-related factors (baseline fatigue, younger age, obesity), alongside the size of irradiated volumes and the level of radiation doses from external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) and brachytherapy (EBRT: V43Gy, V57Gy; EBRT+brachytherapy: V60Gy EQD2). Large volume lymph node (LN) boost compared to no LN boost, increased the risk for late persistent fatigue G≥2 by 18% and 5% (in patients with and without baseline fatigue, respectively). The risk for late persistent fatigue G≥1 increased by 7% and 4% with V43Gy <2000cm³ versus >3000cm³ (in patients with and without baseline fatigue, respectively). Late persistent G≥1 fatigue occurred in 13% of patients without late persistent organ-related symptoms (gastro-intestinal, genito-urinary and vaginal), versus 34-43%, 50-58% and 73% in patients suffering from persistent symptoms involving 1,2 or 3 organs, respectively. Conclusion Late persistent fatigue occurs in a considerable number of patients after chemoradiotherapy. It is associated with patient-related factors, the size of volumes irradiated to intermediate and high EBRT and brachytherapy doses, and other persistent organ-related morbidity. These findings support the importance of ongoing efforts to better tailor the target dose and reduce irradiation of healthy tissue without compromising target coverage, using highly conformal EBRT and brachytherapy techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphanie Smet
- Department of Radiation Oncology, AZ Turnhout, Turnhout, Belgium; Iridium Cancer Network, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Sofia Spampinato
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Richard Pötter
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University Hospital of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Remi A Nout
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands; Department of Radiotherapy, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Cyrus Chargari
- Department of Radiotherapy, Gustave-Roussy, Villejuif, France
| | - Umesh Mahantshetty
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India; Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, Visakhapatnam, India
| | - Alina Sturdza
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University Hospital of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Barbara Segedin
- Department of Radiotherapy, Institute of Oncology, Ljubljana, Slovenia; Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Kjersti Bruheim
- Department of Oncology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Peter Hoskin
- Mount Vernon Cancer Centre, Mount Vernon Hospital, Northwood, United Kingdom
| | - Bhavana Rai
- Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Fleur Huang
- Department of Oncology, Cross Cancer Institute and University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Rachel Cooper
- Leeds Cancer Centre, St James's University Hospital, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | | | - Marit Sundset
- Clinic of Oncology and Women's Clinic, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Erik Van Limbergen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Li Tee Tan
- Oncology Centre, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Ludy C H W Lutgens
- Maastricht Radiation Oncology (MAASTRO) clinic, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Elena Villafranca
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Complejo Hospitalario de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Bradley R Pieters
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kari Tanderup
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Kathrin Kirchheiner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University Hospital of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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27
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Yu PC, Wu CJ, Nien HH, Lui LT, Shaw S, Tsai YL. Half-beam volumetric-modulated arc therapy in adjuvant radiotherapy for gynecological cancers. J Appl Clin Med Phys 2021; 23:e13472. [PMID: 34783436 PMCID: PMC8803303 DOI: 10.1002/acm2.13472] [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: 03/20/2021] [Revised: 08/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study is to introduce half-beam volumetric-modulated arc therapy (HVMAT), an innovative treatment planning technique from our work, for reducing dose to the organs at risk (OAR) during adjuvant radiotherapy for gynecological cancers. METHODS AND MATERIALS Seventy-two treatment plans of 36 patients with gynecological cancers receiving adjuvant radiotherapy were assessed. Among them, 36 plans were designed using HVMAT and paired with the other 36 traditional volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) plans for each patient. The main uniqueness of the HVMAT designs was that it consisted of two opposite-shielded half-beam fields rotated inversely in two coplanar arcs, collocating with the specially-devised avoidance structures to enhance the control of the OAR doses. The dose distributions in HVMAT and VMAT were evaluated and compared using the random effects model. RESULTS The ratios of OAR doses in HVMAT compared with VMAT showed a comprehensive OAR dose reduction when using HVMAT (V20Gy : bladder, 0.92; rectum, 0.95; V30Gy : bowel, 0.91; femoral heads, 0.66), except for the ilium (V30Gy : 1.12). The overall mean difference for each OAR across V40Gy , V30Gy , V20Gy , and bowel V15Gy was statistically significant (almost all p < 0.001). In addition, HVMAT promoted a better conformity index, homogeneity index, D2% , and V107% of the planning target volume (all p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS HVMAT is capable of generating deep double-concave dose distributions with the advantage of reducing dose to several OARs simultaneously. It is highly recommended for pelvic irradiation, especially for treating gynecological cancers in adjuvant radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Chieh Yu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Jung Wu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Radiation Oncology, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Hua Nien
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.,Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Electrical and Computer Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| | - Louis Tak Lui
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Suzun Shaw
- Oncology Treatment Center, Sijhih Cathay General Hospital, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Lun Tsai
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cathay General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan.,Institute of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, College of Public Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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28
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Spampinato S, Jensen NBK, Pötter R, Fokdal LU, Chargari C, Lindegaard JC, Schmid MP, Sturdza A, Jürgenliemk-Schulz IM, Mahantshetty U, Hoskin P, Segedin B, Rai B, Bruheim K, Wiebe E, Van der Steen-Banasik E, Cooper R, Van Limbergen E, Sundset M, Pieters BR, Lutgens LCHW, Tan LT, Villafranca E, Smet S, Jastaniyah N, Nout RA, Kirisits C, Chopra S, Kirchheiner K, Tanderup K. Severity and persistency of late gastrointestinal morbidity in locally advanced cervical cancer: lessons learned from EMBRACE-I and implications for the future. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2021; 112:681-693. [PMID: 34678431 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2021.09.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate patient- and treatment-related risk factors for physician-assessed and patient-reported gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms after radio(chemo)therapy and image guided adaptive brachytherapy (IGABT) in locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC). MATERIAL AND METHODS Of 1416 patients from the XXX study, 1199 and 1002 were prospectively evaluated using physician-assessed (CTCAE) and patient-reported (EORTC) GI symptoms, respectively. CTCAE severe grade (G≥3) events were pooled according to the location in the GI tract (anus/rectum, sigmoid and colon/small bowel). CTCAE G≥2 and EORTC "very much" and "quite a bit"+"very much" scores (≥"quite a bit") were analyzed for individual symptoms with Cox regression. Logistic regression was used for persistent G≥1 and EORTC ≥"quite a bit" symptoms, defined if present in at least half of follow-ups. RESULTS Incidence of G≥3 events was 2.8%, 1.8% and 2.3% for G≥3 anus/rectum, sigmoid and colon/small bowel events, respectively. Among G≥2 symptoms, diarrhea and flatulence were the most prevalent (8.4% and 9.9%, respectively). Among patient-related factors, baseline morbidity, increasing age, smoking status and low body-mass-index were associated to GI symptoms with different impact. Among treatment-related factors, rectum D2cm3 and ICRU recto-vaginal reference point (RV-RP) correlated with G≥3 anus/rectum events, and moderate/persistent diarrhea, proctitis, bleeding, abdominal cramps and difficulty in bowel control. Bowel D2cm3 correlated with G≥3 sigmoid and colon/small bowel events, and moderate/persistent diarrhea and flatulence. For external beam radiotherapy (EBRT), prescription dose correlated with G≥3 anus/rectum, diarrhea and difficulty in bowel control. Patients with large lymph-node boost (V57Gy) were at higher risk for G≥3 sigmoid events, moderate/persistent diarrhea, proctitis and cramps. CONCLUSION The analysis showed that both EBRT and IGABT contribute to GI symptoms after LACC treatment. Rectum D2cm3, ICRU RV-RP and bowel D2cm3 are risk factors for GI morbidity. The risk for various symptoms was lower with an EBRT prescription of 45Gy than 50Gy, and increased with larger V57Gy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Spampinato
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Nina B K Jensen
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Richard Pötter
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lars U Fokdal
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Cyrus Chargari
- Department of Radiotherapy, Gustave-Roussy, Villejuif, France
| | | | - Maximilian P Schmid
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Alina Sturdza
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Umesh Mahantshetty
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Advanced Centre for Treatment Research and Education in Cancer, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Navi Mumbai, India
| | - Peter Hoskin
- Mount Vernon Cancer Centre, Mount Vernon Hospital, Northwood, United Kingdom
| | - Barbara Segedin
- Department of Radiotherapy, Institute of Oncology, Ljubljana, Slovenia; Faculty of medicine, University of Ljubljana
| | - Bhavana Rai
- Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Kjersti Bruheim
- Department of Oncology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo Norway
| | - Ericka Wiebe
- Department of Oncology, Cross Cancer Institute and University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | | | - Rachel Cooper
- Leeds Cancer Centre, St James's University Hospital, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Erik Van Limbergen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marit Sundset
- Clinic of Oncology and Women's Clinic, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Bradley R Pieters
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ludy C H W Lutgens
- Maastricht Radiation Oncology (MAASTRO) clinic, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Li Tee Tan
- Oncology Centre, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Elena Villafranca
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hospital of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Stéphanie Smet
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Algemeen Ziekenhuis Turnhout, Turnhout, Belgium
| | - Noha Jastaniyah
- Radiation Oncology Section, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Remi A Nout
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Christian Kirisits
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Supriya Chopra
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Advanced Centre for Treatment Research and Education in Cancer, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Navi Mumbai, India
| | - Kathrin Kirchheiner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Kari Tanderup
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.
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Abtahi M, Gholami S, Nashi HHJ. High dose rate 192Ir versus high dose rate 60Co brachytherapy: an overview of systematic reviews of clinical responses of gynecological cancers from 1984 to 2020. Biomed Phys Eng Express 2021; 7:055022. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.1088/2057-1976/ac1c52] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
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30
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Kirchheiner K, Smet S, Jürgenliemk-Schulz IM, Haie-Meder C, Chargari C, Lindegaard JC, Fokdal LU, Spampinato S, Schmid MP, Sturdza A, Mahantshetty U, Segedin B, Bruheim K, Rai B, Cooper R, Van der Steen-Banasik E, Wiebe E, Sundset M, van Limbergen E, Villafranca E, Westerveld H, Tan LT, Pötter R, Tanderup K, Nout RA. Impact of Vaginal Symptoms and Hormonal Replacement Therapy on Sexual Outcomes After Definitive Chemoradiotherapy in Patients With Locally Advanced Cervical Cancer: Results from the EMBRACE-I Study. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2021; 112:400-413. [PMID: 34478833 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2021.08.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate patient-reported sexual outcomes after chemoradiation therapy and image-guided adaptive brachytherapy for locally advanced cervical cancer in the observational, prospective, multicenter EMBRACE-I study. METHODS AND MATERIALS Sexual outcomes were assessed prospectively with the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Qualify of Life Questionnaire (EORTC-QLQ-CX24) at baseline and follow-up. Crude incidence and prevalence rates of sexual activity, vaginal functioning problems (dryness, shortening, tightening, pain during intercourse), and sexual enjoyment were evaluated. Associations between pain during intercourse and vaginal functioning problems or sexual enjoyment were calculated, pooling observations over all follow-ups (Spearman correlation coefficient). In patients who were frequently sexually active (≥50% of follow-ups), the effects of regular hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) on vaginal functioning problems were evaluated (Pearson χ2). RESULTS The analysis involved 1045 patients with a median follow-up of 50 months. Sexual activity was reported by 22% of patients at baseline and by 40% to 47% of patients during follow-up (prevalence rates). Vaginal functioning problems in follow-up were dryness (18%-21%), shortening (15%-22%), tightening (16%-22%), pain during intercourse (9%-21%), and compromised enjoyment (37%-47%). Pain during intercourse was significantly associated with vaginal tightening (r = 0.544), shortening (r = 0.532), and dryness (r = 0.408) and negatively correlated with sexual enjoyment (r = -0.407). Regular HRT was associated with significantly less vaginal dryness (P = .015), shortening (P = .024), pain during intercourse (P = .003), and borderline higher sexual enjoyment (P = .062). CONCLUSIONS Vaginal functioning problems are associated with pain and compromised sexual enjoyment. Further effort is required for the primary prevention of vaginal morbidity with dose optimization and adaptation. Secondary prevention strategies, including HRT for vaginal and sexual health after radiation therapy in locally advanced cervical cancer, should be considered and sexual rehabilitation programs should be developed further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Kirchheiner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Stéphanie Smet
- Department of Radiation Oncology, AZ Turnhout, Turnhout, Belgium; Iridium Cancer Network, Antwerp, Belgium
| | | | | | - Cyrus Chargari
- Department of Radiotherapy, Gustave-Roussy, Villejuif, France
| | | | - Lars U Fokdal
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Sofia Spampinato
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Maximilian P Schmid
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Alina Sturdza
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Umesh Mahantshetty
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, Homi Bhabha National Institute, India
| | - Barbara Segedin
- Department of Radiotherapy, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Kjersti Bruheim
- Department of Oncology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Bhavana Rai
- Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Rachel Cooper
- Leeds Cancer Centre, St James's University Hospital, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | | | - Ericka Wiebe
- Department of Oncology, Cross Cancer Institute and University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Marit Sundset
- Clinic of Oncology and Women's Clinic, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Erik van Limbergen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Elena Villafranca
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Hospital of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Henrike Westerveld
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Li Tee Tan
- Oncology Centre, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Pötter
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Kari Tanderup
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Remi A Nout
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands; Department of Radiotherapy, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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Abtahi M, Gholami S, Jassim HH. High dose rate 192Ir versus high dose rate 60Co brachytherapy: an overview of systematic reviews of clinical responses of gynecological cancers from 1984 to 2020. Biomed Phys Eng Express 2021; 7:055022. [PMID: 34375964 DOI: 10.1088/2057-1976/ac1c52] [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: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The Purpose. Radioisotope of192Iradium (192Ir) has a half-life (74 days) and is not easily accessible in developing countries. As a result, by the time source shipment clearance and the customs paperwork are completed, a large proportion of useful activity had already been decayed away. In fact,60Cobalt (60Co) remote afterloading systems are commercially available by many venders. As a result, it may well become an alternative source to192Ir and conform many of these challenges. The aim of this study is that to report clinical responses of different types of gynaecological cancers treated with high dose rate (HDR)192Ir and HDR60Co brachytherapy in order to check whether HDR60Co could be used as an alternative brachytherapy, source to HDR192Ir.Materials and Methods. A retrospective study of clinical responses of different types of gynaecological cancers, staged from I to IV according to recommendations of International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (FIGO), treated by brachytherapy alone, radiotherapy alone (combined brachytherapy and radiotherapy) and combined radiotherapy and chemotherapy (brachytherapy, radiotherapy and chemotherapy) between 1984 and December 2020 was conducted. The patients were treated with external beam radiotherapy 45-51 Gy boosted with HDR192Ir and HDR60Co afterloading brachytherapy of 18-30 Gy to point A.The results. The study scrutinized the data of 11086 patients with different types of gynaecological cancers. Most of the patients, 70 percent of them, were diagnosed with gynaecological cancers in stages II and III. For patients treated with192Ir brachytherapy source 5-years overall survival rate (OS), local control, 2-years, 5-years and 10-years disease free survival (DFS), complications of gastro-intestine (GI) and complications of genito-urinary (GU) were 63.5%, 92%, 72.6%, 64.07%, 43.75%, 3.9% and 5.92%, but for those treated with60Co they were 57.7%, 86.63%, 82.5%, 53.35%, 43.75%, 4.8% and 3.7%, respectively.Conclusions.The use of HDR60Co brachytherapy has the capacity to produce overall survival rate and disease control in patients with carcinoma of the gynaecology comparable to that reported for HDR192Ir brachytherapy. Currently, the toxicity and damage of the normal tissues and radiation-related second cancers are of a similar incidence to that of standard HDR192Ir brachytherapy. Source exchange frequency is not a serious concern because it requires less frequency of replacement, and commissioning can be accomplished within years; hence, replacing HDR192Ir with HDR60Co brachytherapy achieves significant cost saving. Therefore, we recommend that60Co source ought to be the first choice for low resource radiotherapy setting as it offers economic advantages over192Ir and have comparable clinical outcomes to that of192Ir source.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Abtahi
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - S Gholami
- Radiation Oncology department, Cancer Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - H H Jassim
- Department of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Najaf Health Directorate, Ministry of Health, Najaf, Iraq
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Musunuru HB, Pifer PM, Mohindra P, Albuquerque K, Beriwal S. Advances in management of locally advanced cervical cancer. Indian J Med Res 2021; 154:248-261. [PMID: 35142642 PMCID: PMC9131769 DOI: 10.4103/ijmr.ijmr_1047_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, cervical cancer has the fourth highest cancer incidence and mortality in women. Cervical cancer is unique because it has effective prevention, screening, and treatment options. This review discusses the current cervical cancer advances with a focus on locally advanced cervical cancer. Topics discussed include diagnostic imaging principles, surgical management with adjuvant therapy and definitive concurrent chemoradiotherapy. Emphasis is given on current advances and future research directions in radiation therapy (RT) with an emphasis on three-dimensional brachytherapy, intensity-modulated RT, image-guided RT, proton RT and hyperthermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hima Bindu Musunuru
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Phillip M Pifer
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Pranshu Mohindra
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Maryland Proton Treatment Center, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kevin Albuquerque
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Sushil Beriwal
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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33
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Zhang N, Liu Y, Han D, Guo X, Mao Z, Yang W, Cheng G. The Relationship Between Late Morbidity and Dose-Volume Parameter of Rectum in Combined Intracavitary/Interstitial Cervix Cancer Brachytherapy: A Mono-Institutional Experience. Front Oncol 2021; 11:693864. [PMID: 34367976 PMCID: PMC8343064 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2021.693864] [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: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To establish a dose volume–effect relationship for predicting late rectal complication (LRC) in locally advanced cervical cancer patients treated with external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) followed by combined intracavitary/interstitial brachytherapy (IC/IS-BT). Materials and Methods A retrospective analysis was performed in 110 patients with locally advanced cervical cancer who underwent definitive radiotherapy combined with IC/IS-BT from July 2010 to September 2018. We report the 90% of the target volume receiving the minimum dose for high risk clinical target volume (HR-CTV D90) and intermediate risk clinical target volume (IR-CTV D90), and the minimum doses to the most exposed 0.1, 1, and 2 cm³ D0.1cm3,D1cm3,D2cm3 doses at the International Commission on Radiation Units and Measurements (DICRU) for organs at risk (OARs). The total dose of EBRT plus brachytherapy was transformed to the biologically equivalent dose in 2 Gy fractions (EQD2) with α/β value of 10 Gy for target, 3 Gy for organs at risk using the linear quadratic model. The morbidity was scored according to the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) criteria. The Probit model was used to establish a prediction model on rectum between the organs at risk for dose and LRC. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the predictive value of dose volume parameters for LRC. Results The median follow-up time was 72.3 months. The mean ( ± standard deviation) D2cm3,D1cm3,D0.1cm3, and DICRU values of rectum were 64.72 ± 7.47 GyEQD2, 70.18 ± 5.92 GyEQD2, 79.32 ± 7.86 GyEQD2, and 67.22 ± 7.87 GyEQD2, respectively. The Probit model showed significant relationships between D1cm3 or D0.1cm3, and the probability of grade1–4, grade 2–4 rectal events at 1 year, and between D1cm3and the probability of grade2–4 rectal events at 3 and 5 years. The dose values for 10% complication rates (ED10) of D1cm3were 74.18 (70.42–76.71) GyEQD2, 67.80 (59.91, 71.08) GyEQD2, 66.37 (52.00, 70.27) GyEQD2 for grade 2–4 with rectal morbidity at 1, 3, and 5 years, respectively. Conclusion Our study proved that D1cm3 andD0.1cm3were considered as useful dosimetric parameters for predicting the risk of grade1–4 and grade2–4 LRC at 1-year, and D1cm3might be an indicator for predicting grade2-4 LRC at 3/5years. The patients with rectal D1cm3>66.37–74.18 GyEQD2 should be closely observed for grade2–4 LRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Dongmei Han
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xin Guo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Zhuang Mao
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Wei Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Guanghui Cheng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Mahantshetty U, Poetter R, Beriwal S, Grover S, Lavanya G, Rai B, Petric P, Tanderup K, Carvalho H, Hegazy N, Mohamed S, Ohno T, Amornwichet N. IBS-GEC ESTRO-ABS recommendations for CT based contouring in image guided adaptive brachytherapy for cervical cancer. Radiother Oncol 2021; 160:273-284. [PMID: 34019918 PMCID: PMC8675891 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2021.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
MR Imaging is regarded asthe gold standardfor Image Gudied Adaptive Brachytherapy (IGABT) for cervical cancer. However, its wide applicability is limited by its availability, logistics and financial implications. Use of alternative imaging like CTand Ultrasound (US) for IGABT has been attempted. In order to arrive at a systematic, uniform and international approach for CT based definition and contouring of target structures, GEC ESTRO, IBS and ABS agreed to jointly develop such recommendations based on the concepts and terms as published in the ICRU Report 89. The minimum requirements are clinical examination & documentation, CT or MR imaging at diagnosis and at a minimum, CT imaging with the applicator in place. The recommendations are based on (i) assessment of the GTV at diagnosis and at brachytherapy, (ii) categorizing the response to external radiation into different clinical remission patterns, (iii) defining various clinico-radiological environments and (iv) definition & delineation of a target on CT imaging at the time of brachytherapy with the applicator in situ. CT based target contouring recommendations based on 4 remission categories within 8 defined environments, aim at improving the contouring accuracy for IGABT using CT, US and MRI as available. For each clinico-radiological environment, there is an attempt to minimize the specific uncertainties in order to arrive at the best possible contouring accuracy. Evaluating feasibility & reproducibility, to achieve a benchmark towards a gold standard MR IGABT and further clinical research including outcomes with CT Based IGABT will become the next steps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umesh Mahantshetty
- Director and Professor, Radiation Oncology Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (A Unit of Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai), Visakhapatnam, India.
| | - Richard Poetter
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Radiation Oncology-Comprehensive Cancer Center, Vienna, Austria.
| | | | - Surbhi Grover
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia USA and Botswana-UPENN Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Gurram Lavanya
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Bhavana Rai
- Department of Radiotherapy, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Primoz Petric
- Department of Radiation Oncology University Hospital Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Kari Tanderup
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Heloisa Carvalho
- Department of Radiology and Oncology, Radiotherapy Division, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Radiotherapy, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Neamat Hegazy
- Department of Clinical Oncology and Nuclear Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt
| | - Sandy Mohamed
- Department of Radiotherapy and Nuclear Medicine, NCI, Cairo University, Egypt
| | - Tatsuya Ohno
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Napapat Amornwichet
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Seppenwoolde Y, Majercakova K, Buschmann M, Dörr E, Sturdza AE, Schmid MP, Pötter R, Georg D. Early morbidity and dose-volume effects in definitive radiochemotherapy for locally advanced cervical cancer: a prospective cohort study covering modern treatment techniques. Strahlenther Onkol 2021; 197:505-519. [PMID: 33929558 PMCID: PMC8154798 DOI: 10.1007/s00066-021-01781-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Predicting morbidity for patients with locally advanced cervix cancer after external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) based on dose-volume parameters remains an unresolved issue in definitive radiochemotherapy. The aim of this prospective study was to correlate patient characteristics and dose-volume parameters to various early morbidity endpoints for different EBRT techniques, including volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) and adaptive radiotherapy (ART). METHODS AND MATERIALS The study population consisted of 48 patients diagnosed with locally advanced cervix cancer, treated with definitive radiochemotherapy including image-guided adaptive brachytherapy (IGABT). Multiple questionnaires (CTCAE 4.03, QLQ-C30 and EORTC QLQ-CX24) were assessed prospectively for patients treated with different EBRT techniques, including online adaptive VMAT. Contouring and treatment planning was based on the EMBRACE protocols. Acute toxicity, classified as general, gastrointestinal (GI) or genitourinary (GU) and their corresponding dose-volume histograms (DVHs) were first correlated by applying least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and subsequently evaluated by multiple logistic binomial regression. RESULTS The treated EBRT volumes varied for the different techniques with ~2500 cm3 for 3D conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT), ~2000 cm3 for EMBRACE‑I VMAT, and ~1800 cm3 for EMBRACE-II VMAT and ART. In general, a worsening of symptoms during the first 5 treatment weeks and recovery afterwards was observed. Dose-volume parameters significantly correlating with stool urgency, rectal and urinary incontinence were as follows: bowel V40Gy < 250 cm3, rectum V40Gy < 80% and bladder V40Gy < 80-90%. CONCLUSION This prospective study demonstrated the impact of EBRT treatment techniques in combination with chemotherapy on early morbidity. Dose-volume effects for dysuria, urinary incontinence, stool urgency, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, rectal incontinence and weight loss were found.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvette Seppenwoolde
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna/AKH Wien, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.,Christian Doppler Laboratory for Medical Radiation Research for Radiation Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Katarina Majercakova
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna/AKH Wien, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.,Christian Doppler Laboratory for Medical Radiation Research for Radiation Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Martin Buschmann
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna/AKH Wien, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.,Christian Doppler Laboratory for Medical Radiation Research for Radiation Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Elke Dörr
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna/AKH Wien, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.,Christian Doppler Laboratory for Medical Radiation Research for Radiation Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Alina E Sturdza
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna/AKH Wien, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Maximilian P Schmid
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna/AKH Wien, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Richard Pötter
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna/AKH Wien, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.,Christian Doppler Laboratory for Medical Radiation Research for Radiation Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Dietmar Georg
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna/AKH Wien, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria. .,Christian Doppler Laboratory for Medical Radiation Research for Radiation Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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Barten DLJ, Laan JJ, Nelissen KJ, Visser J, Westerveld H, Bel A, de Jonge CS, Stoker J, van Kesteren Z. A 3D cine-MRI acquisition technique and image analysis framework to quantify bowel motion demonstrated in gynecological cancer patients. Med Phys 2021; 48:3109-3119. [PMID: 33738805 PMCID: PMC8360025 DOI: 10.1002/mp.14851] [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: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is increasingly used in radiation oncology for target delineation and radiotherapy treatment planning, for example, in patients with gynecological cancers. As a consequence of pelvic radiotherapy, a part of the bowel is irradiated, yielding risk of bowel toxicity. Existing dose-effect models predicting bowel toxicity are inconclusive and bowel motion might be an important confounding factor. The exact motion of the bowel and dosimetric effects of its motion are yet uncharted territories in radiotherapy. In diagnostic radiology methods on the acquisition of dynamic MRI sequences were developed for bowel motility visualization and quantification. Our study aim was to develop an imaging technique based on three-dimensional (3D) cine-MRI to visualize and quantify bowel motion and demonstrate it in a cohort of gynecological cancer patients. METHODS We developed an MRI acquisition suitable for 3D bowel motion quantification, namely a balanced turbo field echo sequence (TE = 1.39 ms, TR = 2.8 ms), acquiring images in 3.7 s (dynamic) with a 1.25 × 1.25 × 2.5 mm3 resolution, yielding a field of view of 200 × 200 × 125 mm3 . These MRI bowel motion sequences were acquired in 22 gynecological patients. During a 10-min scan, 160 dynamics were acquired. Subsequent dynamics were deformably registered using a B-spline transformation model, resulting in 159 3D deformation vector fields (DVFs) per MRI set. From the 159 DVFs, the average vector length was calculated per voxel to generate bowel motion maps. Quality assurance was performed on all 159 DVFs per MRI, using the Jacobian Determinant and the Harmonic Energy as deformable image registration error metrics. In order to quantify bowel motion, we introduced the concept of cumulative motion-volume histogram (MVH) of the bowel bag volume. Finally, interpatient variation of bowel motion was analyzed using the MVH parameters M10%, M50%, and M90%. The M10%/M50%/M90% represents the minimum bowel motion per frame of 10%/50%/90% of the bowel bag volume. RESULTS The motion maps resulted in a visualization of areas with small and large movements within the bowel bag. After applying quality assurance, the M10%, M50%, and M90% were 4.4 (range 2.2-7.6) mm, 2.2 (range 0.9-4.1) mm, and 0.5 (range 0.2-1.4) mm per frame, on average over all patients, respectively. CONCLUSION We have developed a method to visualize and quantify 3D bowel motion with the use of bowel motion specific MRI sequences in 22 gynecological cancer patients. This 3D cine-MRI-based quantification tool and the concept of MVHs can be used in further studies to determine the effect of radiotherapy on bowel motion and to find the relation with dose effects to the small bowel. In addition, the developed technique can be a very interesting application for bowel motility assessment in diagnostic radiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danique L J Barten
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, 1105 AZ, The Netherlands
| | - Janna J Laan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, 1105 AZ, The Netherlands
| | - Koen J Nelissen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1117, Amsterdam, 1081 HV, The Netherlands
| | - Jorrit Visser
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, 1105 AZ, The Netherlands
| | - Henrike Westerveld
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, 1105 AZ, The Netherlands
| | - Arjan Bel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, 1105 AZ, The Netherlands
| | - Catharina S de Jonge
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, 1105 AZ, The Netherlands
| | - Jaap Stoker
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, 1105 AZ, The Netherlands
| | - Zdenko van Kesteren
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, 1105 AZ, The Netherlands
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Pötter R, Tanderup K, Schmid MP, Jürgenliemk-Schulz I, Haie-Meder C, Fokdal LU, Sturdza AE, Hoskin P, Mahantshetty U, Segedin B, Bruheim K, Huang F, Rai B, Cooper R, van der Steen-Banasik E, Van Limbergen E, Pieters BR, Tan LT, Nout RA, De Leeuw AAC, Ristl R, Petric P, Nesvacil N, Kirchheiner K, Kirisits C, Lindegaard JC. MRI-guided adaptive brachytherapy in locally advanced cervical cancer (EMBRACE-I): a multicentre prospective cohort study. Lancet Oncol 2021; 22:538-547. [PMID: 33794207 DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(20)30753-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 260] [Impact Index Per Article: 86.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The concept of the use of MRI for image-guided adaptive brachytherapy (IGABT) in locally advanced cervical cancer was introduced 20 years ago. Here, we report on EMBRACE-I, which aimed to evaluate local tumour control and morbidity after chemoradiotherapy and MRI-based IGABT. METHODS EMBRACE-I was a prospective, observational, multicentre cohort study. Data from patients from 24 centres in Europe, Asia, and North America were prospectively collected. The inclusion criteria were patients older than 18 years, with biopsy-proven squamous cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, or adenosquamous carcinoma of the uterine cervix, The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage IB-IVA disease or FIGO stage IVB disease restricted to paraaortic lymph metastasis below the L1-L2 interspace, suitable for curative treatment. Treatment consisted of chemoradiotherapy (weekly intravenous cisplatin 40 mg/m2, 5-6 cycles, 1 day per cycle, plus 45-50 Gy external-beam radiotherapy delivered in 1·8-2 Gy fractions) followed by MRI-based IGABT. The MRI-based IGABT target volume definition and dose reporting was according to Groupe Européen de Curiethérapie European Society for Radiation Oncology recommendations. IGABT dose prescription was open according to institutional practice. Local control and late morbidity were selected as primary endpoints in all patients available for analysis. The study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT00920920. FINDINGS Patient accrual began on July 30, 2008, and closed on Dec 29, 2015. A total of 1416 patients were registered in the database. After exclusion for not meeting patient selection criteria before treatment, being registered but not entered in the database, meeting the exclusion criteria, and being falsely excluded, data from 1341 patients were available for analysis of disease and data from 1251 patients were available for assessment of morbidity outcome. MRI-based IGABT including dose optimisation was done in 1317 (98·2%) of 1341 patients. Median high-risk clinical target volume was 28 cm3 (IQR 20-40) and median minimal dose to 90% of the clinical target volume (D90%) was 90 Gy (IQR 85-94) equi-effective dose in 2 Gy per fraction. At a median follow-up of 51 months (IQR 20-64), actuarial overall 5-year local control was 92% (95% CI 90-93). Actuarial cumulative 5-year incidence of grade 3-5 morbidity was 6·8% (95% CI 5·4-8·6) for genitourinary events, 8·5% (6·9-10·6) for gastrointestinal events, 5·7% (4·3-7·6) for vaginal events, and 3·2% (2·2-4·5) for fistulae. INTERPRETATION Chemoradiotherapy and MRI-based IGABT result in effective and stable long-term local control across all stages of locally advanced cervical cancer, with a limited severe morbidity per organ. These results represent a positive breakthrough in the treatment of locally advanced cervical cancer, which might be used as a benchmark for clinical practice and all future studies. FUNDING Medical University of Vienna, Aarhus University Hospital, Elekta AB, and Varian Medical Systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Pötter
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Kari Tanderup
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Maximilian Paul Schmid
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Ina Jürgenliemk-Schulz
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | | | | | - Alina Emiliana Sturdza
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter Hoskin
- Mount Vernon Hospital, Mount Vernon Cancer Centre, Northwood, London, UK; Division of Cancer Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Barbara Segedin
- Department of Radiotherapy, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Kjersti Bruheim
- Department of Oncology, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Fleur Huang
- Department of Oncology, Cross Cancer Institute and University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Bhavana Rai
- Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Rachel Cooper
- St James's University Hospital, Leeds Cancer Centre, Leeds, UK
| | | | | | - Bradley Rumwell Pieters
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Academic Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Li-Tee Tan
- Department of Oncology, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals, Cambridge, UK
| | - Remi Abubakar Nout
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands; Department of Radiotherapy, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Robin Ristl
- Center for Medical Statistics, Informatics and Intelligent Systems, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Primoz Petric
- Department of Radiotherapy, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Nicole Nesvacil
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Kathrin Kirchheiner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christian Kirisits
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Berger T, Godart J, Jagt T, Vittrup AS, Fokdal LU, Lindegaard JC, Kibsgaard Jensen NB, Zolnay A, Reijtenbagh D, Trnkova P, Tanderup K, Hoogeman M. Dosimetric Impact of Intrafraction Motion in Online-Adaptive Intensity Modulated Proton Therapy for Cervical Cancer. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2021; 109:1580-1587. [PMID: 33227442 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2020.11.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE A method was recently developed for online-adaptive intensity modulated proton therapy (IMPT) in patients with cervical cancer. The advantage of this approach, relying on the use of tight margins, is challenged by the intrafraction target motion. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the dosimetric effect of intrafraction motion on the target owing to changes in bladder filling in patients with cervical cancer treated with online-adaptive IMPT. METHODS AND MATERIALS In 10 patients selected to have large uterus motion induced by bladder filling, the intrafraction anatomic changes were simulated for several prefraction durations for online (automated) contouring and planning. For each scenario, the coverage of the primary target was evaluated with margins of 2.5 and 5 mm. RESULTS Using a 5- mm planning target volume margin, median accumulated D98% was greater than 42.75 GyRBE1.1 (95% of the prescribed dose) in the case of a prefraction duration of 5 and 10 minutes. For a prefraction duration of 15 minutes, this parameter deteriorated to 42.6 GyRBE1.1. When margins were reduced to 2.5 mm, only a 5-minute duration resulted in median target D98% above 42.75 GyRBE1.1. In addition, smaller bladders were found to be associated with larger dose degradations compared with larger bladders. CONCLUSIONS This study indicates that intrafraction anatomic changes can have a substantial dosimetric effect on target coverage in an online-adaptive IMPT scenario for patients subject to large uterus motion. A margin of 5 mm was sufficient to compensate for the intrafraction motion due to bladder filling for up to 10 minutes of prefraction time. However, compensation for the uncertainties that were disregarded in this study, by using margins or robust optimization, is also required. Furthermore, a large bladder volume restrains intrafraction target motion and is recommended for treating patients in this scenario. Assuming that online-adaptive IMPT remains beneficial as long as narrow margins are used (5 mm or below), this study demonstrates its feasibility with regard to intrafraction motion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Berger
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Jérémy Godart
- Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Department of Radiotherapy, The Netherlands
| | - Thyrza Jagt
- Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Department of Radiotherapy, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | - Andras Zolnay
- Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Department of Radiotherapy, The Netherlands
| | - Dominique Reijtenbagh
- Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Department of Radiotherapy, The Netherlands
| | - Petra Trnkova
- Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Department of Radiotherapy, The Netherlands; Holland PTC, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Kari Tanderup
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Mischa Hoogeman
- Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Department of Radiotherapy, The Netherlands; Holland PTC, Delft, The Netherlands
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Association of bowel radiation dose-volume with skeletal muscle loss during pelvic intensity-modulated radiotherapy in cervical cancer. Support Care Cancer 2021; 29:5497-5505. [PMID: 33712910 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-021-06131-x] [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: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radiation-induced bowel damage may compromise nutrient absorption and digestion and affect body composition during pelvic radiotherapy in patients with locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC). This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between bowel radiation dose-volume and body composition changes during pelvic radiotherapy. METHODS Data of 301 LACC patients treated with chemoradiotherapy were analyzed. Changes in skeletal muscle index (SMI) and density (SMD), and total adipose tissue index (TATI) were measured from computed tomography images at the L3 vertebral level. A reduction in SMI, SMD, or TATI of ≥10% was classified as "loss." Bowel V45 indicates the bowel volume (mL) receiving a radiation dose of ≥45 Gy. The relationship between body composition and bowel V45 was analyzed using logistic regression models. RESULTS After treatment, 61 (20.3%), 81 (26.9%), and 97 (32.2%) patients experienced SMI, SMD, and TATI loss, respectively. Increased bowel V45 was independently associated with increased odds of SMI loss (odds ratio [OR]: 1.012; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.007-1.018; p<0.001) and TATI loss (OR: 1.006; 95% CI: 1.001-1.010; p=0.01), but not with SMD loss (OR: 1.005; 95% CI: 1.000-1.009; p=0.054). The cut-off value with the highest accuracy for predicting SMI loss was V45 ≥222 mL; a higher rate of SMI loss was noted in 40.0% of patients with V45 ≥222 mL than in 13.7% of patients with V45 <222 mL (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS Higher bowel dose-volume was significantly associated with muscle loss during pelvic radiotherapy. Bowel dose-volume consideration is required in individualized nutritional counseling and supportive care in clinical practice.
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Gennigens C, De Cuypere M, Hermesse J, Kridelka F, Jerusalem G. Optimal treatment in locally advanced cervical cancer. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2021; 21:657-671. [PMID: 33472018 DOI: 10.1080/14737140.2021.1879646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC) (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) 2009/2018 - stages IB2-IVA/IB3-IVA, respectively) is treated using a multimodal approach that includes chemoradiotherapy followed by brachytherapy.Areas covered: This review provides an overview of the progress made over the past decade in the treatment of LACC. Prognostic factors, FIGO classification and the role of imaging staging will be discussed. Efficacy of external-beam radiotherapy, brachytherapy and chemotherapy will be detailed. Indications for para-aortic staging lymphadenectomy and adjuvant hysterectomy, as well as follow-up and special population, will be covered.Expert opinion: The initial workup is one of the most crucial steps in the optimal care of patients, which should be realized by a multidisciplinary expert team. With the implementation of modern conformal radiotherapy techniques, the local control rate has been optimized. Nevertheless, 40% of patients experience recurrence with distant metastasis and a dismal prognosis. Currently, a clear benefit of neo- and adjuvant chemotherapy has not been established. The future likely involves (1) improved selection of patients for whom treatment intensification is justified, (2) a combination of new drugs with chemoradiation that are currently being tested in trials, and (3) the development of tailored treatment based on molecular characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Frédéric Kridelka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHU Liège and Liège University, Liège, Belgium
| | - Guy Jerusalem
- Department of Medical Oncology, CHU Liège and Liège University, Liège, Belgium
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Wu N, Su X, Song H, Li Y, Gu F, Sun X, Li X, Cheng G. A Multi-Institutional Retrospective Analysis of Oncologic Outcomes for Patients With Locally Advanced Cervical Cancer Undergoing Platinum-Based Adjuvant Chemotherapy After Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy. Cancer Control 2021; 28:1073274821989307. [PMID: 33593091 PMCID: PMC8482744 DOI: 10.1177/1073274821989307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: To evaluated the oncologic outcomes associated with platinum-based adjuvant chemotherapy following concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) in the management of patients with locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC). Methods: A total of 695 patients with FIGO stage IB2, IIA2, IIB-IVA LACC treated at 6 medical facilities were enrolled and divided into 2 groups: 478 were assigned to CCRT alone (CCRT group) and 217 to adjuvant chemotherapy after CCRT (CCRT-ACT group). The treatment outcomes were retrospectively compared and reported after the propensity score matching (PSM) analysis. Results: With a median follow-up of 56.4 months, no statistically significant differences were found in overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), progression-free survival (PFS) and distance metastasis-free survival (DMFS) between 2 groups. In CCRT-ACT group, patients with lymph nodes involvement or squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) had significantly longer DMFS, but no significant benefit in survival outcomes were observed with more than 2 cycles of adjuvant chemotherapy. Moreover, patients with a high level of CA125 (>20.5U/mL) or SCC-Ag (>22.8μg/L) had a relatively better DFS or PFS, and grade 3-4 acute hematological toxicity, late urinary and lower gastrointestinal complications and diarrhea symptom were more frequent in CCRT-ACT group. Conclusions: Adjuvant chemotherapy after CCRT has a potential role in further improving disease control for LACC patients with lymph nodal-metastasis or SCC with a high level of CA125 or SCC-Ag. Due to increased treatment-related complications and diarrhea symptom affecting the quality of life, post-CCRT adjuvant chemotherapy with excessive cycles was not be considered as the most appropriate choice in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Wu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xing Su
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Beijing Cancer Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Honglin Song
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
| | - Ying Li
- Department of Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Fei Gu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xiaoge Sun
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, China
| | - Xiaofan Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Beijing Cancer Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Guanghui Cheng
- Department of Radiation Oncology, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Spampinato S, Fokdal LU, Pötter R, Haie-Meder C, Lindegaard JC, Schmid MP, Sturdza A, Jürgenliemk-Schulz IM, Mahantshetty U, Segedin B, Bruheim K, Hoskin P, Rai B, Huang F, Cooper R, van der Steen-Banasik E, Van Limbergen E, Sundset M, Westerveld H, Nout RA, Jensen NBK, Kirisits C, Kirchheiner K, Tanderup K. Risk factors and dose-effects for bladder fistula, bleeding and cystitis after radiotherapy with imaged-guided adaptive brachytherapy for cervical cancer: An EMBRACE analysis. Radiother Oncol 2021; 158:312-320. [PMID: 33545254 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2021.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To identify patient- and treatment-related risk factors for fistula, bleeding, cystitis, pain and difficulty in voiding in locally advanced cervical cancer patients treated with radio(chemo)therapy and image-guided adaptive brachytherapy (IGABT). MATERIAL AND METHODS Morbidity within the EMBRACE-I study was prospectively reported for physician-assessed (CTCAE) fistula, bleeding and cystitis and patient-reported (EORTC) pain and difficulty in voiding. Analysis of risk factors was performed in patients without bladder infiltration. Risk factors were tested with Cox regression for grade (G) ≥ 3 cystitis, for G ≥ 2 fistula, bleeding and cystitis, and for EORTC "very much" and "quite a bit" or worse. RESULTS Of 1416 patients enrolled, 1153 and 884 patients without bladder infiltration were evaluable for the analysis of CTCAE and EORTC items, respectively. Median follow-up was 48[3-120] months. Crude incidence rates for G ≥ 2 fistula, bleeding and cystitis were 0.7%, 2.7% and 8.8%, respectively, and 16% and 14% for "quite a bit" or worse pain and difficulty in voiding, respectively. Baseline urinary morbidity and overweight/obesity were significant risk factors for most endpoints. Bladder D2cm3 correlated with G ≥ 2 fistula, bleeding and cystitis, while ICRU bladder point dose correlated with EORTC pain "quite a bit" or worse. An increase from 75 Gy to 80 Gy in bladder D2cm3 resulted in an increase from 8% to 13% for 4-year actuarial estimate of G ≥ 2 cystitis. CONCLUSION Clinical and treatment-related risk factors for bladder fistula, bleeding and cystitis were identified within a prospective and multi-institutional setting. A dose-effect was established with bladder D2cm3, reinforcing the importance of continued optimization during individualized IGABT planning.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lars U Fokdal
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Richard Pötter
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | - Maximilian P Schmid
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Alina Sturdza
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | - Barbara Segedin
- Department of Radiotherapy, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Kjersti Bruheim
- Department of Oncology, The Norwegian Radium Hospital - Oslo University Hospital, Norway
| | - Peter Hoskin
- Mount Vernon Cancer Centre, Mount Vernon Hospital, Northwood, United Kingdom
| | - Bhavana Rai
- Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Fleur Huang
- Department of Oncology, Cross Cancer Institute and University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Rachel Cooper
- Leeds Cancer Centre, St James's University Hospital, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Marit Sundset
- Clinic of Oncology and Women's Clinic, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Henrike Westerveld
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Remi A Nout
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, The Netherlands
| | | | - Christian Kirisits
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Kathrin Kirchheiner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | - Kari Tanderup
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark
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Education and training for image-guided adaptive brachytherapy for cervix cancer—The (GEC)-ESTRO/EMBRACE perspective. Brachytherapy 2020; 19:827-836. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2020.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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44
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K Jensen NB, Pötter R, Spampinato S, Fokdal LU, Chargari C, Lindegaard JC, Schmid MP, Sturdza A, Jürgenliemk-Schulz IM, Mahantshetty U, Segedin B, Bruheim K, Hoskin P, Rai B, Wiebe E, Cooper R, Van der Steen-Banasik E, Van Limbergen E, Sundset M, Pieters BR, Nout RA, Kirisits C, Kirchheiner K, Tanderup K. Dose-Volume Effects and Risk Factors for Late Diarrhea in Cervix Cancer Patients After Radiochemotherapy With Image Guided Adaptive Brachytherapy in the EMBRACE I Study. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2020; 109:688-700. [PMID: 33068689 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2020.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate patient- and treatment-related risk factors associated with incidence and persistence of late diarrhea after radiochemotherapy and image guided adaptive brachytherapy (IGABT) in locally advanced cervical cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS Of 1416 patients from the EMBRACE I study, 1199 were prospectively evaluated using physician-reported (Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 3 [CTCAEv3]) assessment for diarrhea; median follow-up 48 months. Patient-reported outcome (EORTC) was available in 900 patients. Incidence of CTCAE G≥2, G≥3, and EORTC "very much" diarrhea was analyzed with Cox proportional hazards regression. Binary logistic regression was used for analysis of persistent G≥1 and EORTC "quite a bit" - "very much" (≥"quite a bit") diarrhea, defined if present in at least half of all follow-ups. RESULTS Crude incidences of G≥2 and G≥3 diarrhea were 8.3% and 1.5%, respectively, and 8% of patients reported "very much" diarrhea. Persistent G≥1 and ≥"quite a bit" diarrhea was present in 16% and 7%, respectively. Patient-related risk factors were baseline diarrhea, smoking, and diabetes with hazard ratios of 1.4 to 7.3. Treatment-related risk factors included prescribed dose, V43 Gy, V57 Gy (lymph node boost), and para-aortic irradiation for external beam radiation therapy (EBRT). G≥2 diarrhea at 3 years increased from 9.5% to 19.9% with prescribed dose 45 Gy versus 50 Gy, 8.7% to 14.0% with V43 Gy <2500 cm3 versus >3000 cm3 and 9.4% to 19.0% with V57 Gy <165 cm3 versus ≥165 cm3. Brachytherapy-related bowel and rectum D2cm3 were also associated with diarrhea. CONCLUSION Dose and volume effects have been established for late diarrhea after radiochemotherapy and IGABT in both CTCAE and EORTC reporting. The risk of diarrhea was lower with a pelvic EBRT prescription of 45 Gy, and higher with larger lymph node boosts volumes (ie, ≥165 cm3). The importance of EBRT volumes as determinants of late toxicity underline the need for continuous quality assurance of target contouring, dose planning, and conformity. The findings of brachytherapy dosimetric factors related to the intestines may become more important with highly conformal EBRT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina B K Jensen
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Richard Pötter
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sofia Spampinato
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Lars U Fokdal
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Cyrus Chargari
- Department of Radiotherapy, Gustave-Roussy, Villejuif, France
| | | | - Maximilian P Schmid
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Alina Sturdza
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Umesh Mahantshetty
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, Homi Bhabha National Institute, India
| | - Barbara Segedin
- Department of Radiotherapy, Institute of Oncology Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Kjersti Bruheim
- Department of Oncology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Peter Hoskin
- Mount Vernon Cancer Centre, Mount Vernon Hospital, Northwood, United Kingdom
| | - Bhavana Rai
- Department of Radiotherapy and Oncology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Ericka Wiebe
- Department of Oncology, Cross Cancer Institute and University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Rachel Cooper
- Leeds Cancer Centre, St James's University Hospital, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | | | - Erik Van Limbergen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marit Sundset
- Clinic of Oncology and Women's Clinic, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Bradley R Pieters
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Remi A Nout
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands; Department of Radiotherapy, Erasmus MC Cancer Institute, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Christian Kirisits
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Kathrin Kirchheiner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Kari Tanderup
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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Kirchheiner K, Smet S, Spampinato S, Jensen NBK, Vittrup AS, Fokdal L, Najjari-Jamal D, Westerveld HG, Lindegaard JC, Kirisits C, De Leeuw A, Schmid MP, Tan LT, Nout RA, Jürgenliemk-Schulz IM, Pötter R, Tanderup K. Initiatives for education, training, and dissemination of morbidity assessment and reporting in a multiinstitutional international context: Insights from the EMBRACE studies on cervical cancer. Brachytherapy 2020; 19:837-849. [PMID: 32978080 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2020.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In 2008, the GEC ESTRO Gyn network launched the first multiinstitutional, observational, and prospective international study on MRI-guided brachytherapy in locally advanced cervical cancer patients (EMBRACE-I). EMBRACE-I was followed by EMBRACE-II from 2016 and ongoing. Among the aims of the EMBRACE studies are to benchmark morbidity outcomes and develop dose-volume effects and predictive models for morbidity. The EMBRACE studies collect both physician (CTCAE v.3) and patient (EORTC QLQ-C30/CX24) reported outcomes, including baseline information, in a regular follow-up schedule. The EMBRACE studies feature high numbers of patients (EMBRACE-I N = 1416, EMBRACE-II N = 1500 expected) enrolled from many institutions worldwide (EMBRACE-I n = 23, EMBRACE-II n = 45). This large-scale multiinstitutional approach offers a unique opportunity to investigate and develop new strategies for improving the quality of assessment and reporting of morbidity. This report presents an overview of the challenges and pitfalls regarding the assessment and reporting of morbidity encountered during more than a decade of development and research activities within the EMBRACE consortium. This includes the recognition and evaluation of inconsistencies in the morbidity assessment, and consequently, the provision of assistance and training in the scoring procedure to reduce systematic assessment bias. In parallel, a variety of methodological approaches were tested to comprehensively summarize morbidity outcomes, and a novel approach was developed to refine dose-effect models and risk factor analyses. The purpose of this report is to present an overview of these findings, describe the learning process, and the strategies that have consequently been implemented regarding educational activities, training, and dissemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Kirchheiner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Stéphanie Smet
- Department of Radiation Oncology, AZ Turnhout, Turnhout, Belgium
| | - Sofia Spampinato
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Nina B K Jensen
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Lars Fokdal
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Dina Najjari-Jamal
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Catalan Institute of Oncology, University of Barcelona, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Henrike G Westerveld
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, AMC, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Christian Kirisits
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Astrid De Leeuw
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Center, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Maximilian P Schmid
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Li Tee Tan
- Department of Oncology, Cambridge University Hospitals, Cambridge, UK
| | - Remi A Nout
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Richard Pötter
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Kari Tanderup
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
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Gort EM, Beukema JC, Matysiak W, Sijtsema NM, Aluwini S, Langendijk JA, Both S, Brouwer CL. Inter-fraction motion robustness and organ sparing potential of proton therapy for cervical cancer. Radiother Oncol 2020; 154:194-200. [PMID: 32956707 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2020.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Large-field photon radiotherapy is current standard in the treatment of cervical cancer patients. However, with the increasing availability of Pencil Beam Scanning Proton Therapy (PBS-PT) and robust treatment planning techniques, protons may have significant advantages for cervical cancer patients in the reduction of toxicity. In this study, PBS-PT and photon Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT) were compared, examining target coverage and organ at risk (OAR) dose, taking inter- and intra-fraction motion into account. MATERIALS AND METHODS Twelve cervical cancer patients were included in this in-silico planning study. In all cases, a planning CT scan, five weekly repeat CT scans (reCTs) and an additional reCT 10 min after the first reCT were available. Two-arc VMAT and robustly optimised two- and four-field (2F and 4F) PBS-PT plans were robustly evaluated on planCTs and reCTs using set-up and range uncertainty. Nominal OAR doses and voxel-wise minimum target coverage robustness were compared. RESULTS Average voxel-wise minimum accumulated doses for pelvic target structures over all patients were adequate for both photon and proton treatment techniques (D98 > 95%, [91.7-99.3%]). Average accumulated dose of the para-aortic region was lower than the required 95%, D98 > 94.4% [91.1-98.2%]. With PBS-PT 4F, dose to all OARs was significantly lower than with VMAT. Major differences were observed for mean bowel bag V15Gy: 60% [39-70%] for VMAT vs 30% [10-52%] and 32% [9-54%] for PBS-PT 2F and 4F and for mean bone marrow V10Gy: 88% [82-97%] for VMAT vs 66% [60-73%] and 67% [60-75%] for PBS-PT 2F and 4F. CONCLUSION Robustly optimised PBS-PT for cervical cancer patients shows equivalent target robustness against inter- and intra-fraction variability compared to VMAT, and offers significantly better OAR sparing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elske M Gort
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Radiation Oncology, The Netherlands
| | - Jannet C Beukema
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Radiation Oncology, The Netherlands
| | - Witold Matysiak
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Radiation Oncology, The Netherlands
| | - Nanna M Sijtsema
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Radiation Oncology, The Netherlands
| | - Shafak Aluwini
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Radiation Oncology, The Netherlands
| | - Johannes A Langendijk
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Radiation Oncology, The Netherlands
| | - Stefan Both
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Radiation Oncology, The Netherlands
| | - Charlotte L Brouwer
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Radiation Oncology, The Netherlands.
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Health-Related Quality of Life and Patient-Reported Outcomes in Radiation Oncology Clinical Trials. Curr Treat Options Oncol 2020; 21:87. [PMID: 32862317 DOI: 10.1007/s11864-020-00782-4] [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] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OPINION STATEMENT The importance of assessing health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) is now well recognized as an essential measure when evaluating the effectiveness of new cancer therapies. Quality of life measures provide for a multi-dimensional understanding of the impact of cancer treatment on measures ranging from functional, psychological, and social aspects of a patient's health. Patient-reported outcomes provide for an assessment of physical and functional symptoms that are directly elicited from patients. Collection of PROs and HRQoL data has been shown to not only be feasible but also provide for reliable measures that correlate with established outcomes measures better than clinician-scored toxicities. The importance of HRQoL measures has been emphasized by both patients and clinicians, as well as policy makers and regulatory bodies. Given the benefits associated with measuring HRQoL and PROs in oncology clinical trials, it is increasingly important to establish methods to effectively incorporate PROs and HRQoL measures into routine clinical practice.
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Persistence of Late Substantial Patient-Reported Symptoms (LAPERS) After Radiochemotherapy Including Image Guided Adaptive Brachytherapy for Locally Advanced Cervical Cancer: A Report From the EMBRACE Study. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2020; 109:161-173. [PMID: 32853710 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2020.08.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This report describes the persistence of late substantial treatment-related patient-reported symptoms (LAPERS) in the multi-institutional EMBRACE study on magnetic resonance image guided adaptive brachytherapy in locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC). METHODS AND MATERIALS Patient-reported symptoms (European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer [EORTC]-C30/CX24) and physician-assessed morbidity (Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events [CTCAE], version 3.0) were assessed at baseline and regular timepoints during follow-up. Patients with sufficient EORTC follow-up (baseline and ≥3 late follow-up visits) were analyzed. LAPERS events were defined as the presence of substantial EORTC symptoms (quite a bit/very much) for at least half of the assessments (persistence) and progression beyond baseline condition (treatment-related). For each EORTC symptom, the ratio between LAPERS rates and crude incidence rates of substantial symptoms was calculated to represent the proportion of symptomatic patients with persisting symptoms. For 9 symptoms with a corresponding EORTC/CTCAE assessment, the overlap of LAPERS and severe morbidity events (grades 3-5) was evaluated. RESULTS Of 1047 patients with EORTC available, 741 had sufficient follow-up for the LAPERS analyses. The median follow-up was 59 months (interquartile range, 42-70 months). Across all symptoms, the proportion of patients with LAPERS events (LAPERS rates) was in median 4.6% (range, 0.0% vaginal bleeding to 20.4% tiredness). Urinary frequency, neuropathy, fatigue, insomnia, and menopausal symptoms revealed LAPERS rates of >10%. Vomiting, blood in stool, urinary pain/burning, and abnormal vaginal bleeding displayed LAPERS rates of <1%. A median of 19% of symptomatic patients (interquartile range, 8.0%-28.5%) showed persistent long-term symptoms (LAPERS events). In symptoms with a corresponding EORTC/CTCAE assessment, 12% of LAPERS events were accompanied by a severe CTCAE event. CONCLUSIONS Within this large cohort of survivors of LACC, a subgroup of patients with persistent symptoms (LAPERS events) was identified. For symptoms with a corresponding EORTC/CTCAE assessment, the vast majority of LAPERS events occurred in patients without corresponding severe physician-assessed morbidity. These findings emphasize the importance of distinguishing between transient and persisting symptoms in the aftercare of LACC survivors.
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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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50
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Radiation Therapy for Cervical Cancer: Executive Summary of an ASTRO Clinical Practice Guideline. Pract Radiat Oncol 2020; 10:220-234. [DOI: 10.1016/j.prro.2020.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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