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Biltekin F, Akyol HF, Gultekin M, Yilmaz MT, Yildiz F. Intensity-modulated vaginal brachytherapy applicator and single- and multi-channel applicators in vaginal cuff brachytherapy. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2024; 16:132-138. [PMID: 38808211 PMCID: PMC11129644 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2024.138979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose To compare the dosimetric performance of vaginal intensity-modulated brachytherapy (IM-BRT) applicator and single- (SC-BRT) and multi-channel brachytherapy (MC-BRT) applicators for vaginal cuff brachytherapy (VC-BRT). Material and methods Fifteen patients with uterine-confined endometrium cancer who received adjuvant VC-BRT were included in this study. IM-BRT, SC-BRT, and MC-BRT treatment plans were created for two different clinical target volume (CTV) definitions: 1. Standard CTV, called CTVs; and 2. Virtually defined CTV, called CTVv, with asymmetrical tumor extension > 5 mm in thickness. Plan comparison was performed using dose-volume histogram (DVH) and treatment planning parameters. Results According to DVH analysis, D98 for CTVv and D2 for both CTVs and CTVv showed statistically significant differences between IM-BRT and SC-BRT plans, but there was no significant difference between IM-BRT and MC-BRT plans in terms of D98 and D2 for both CTVs and CTVv. Additionally, for CTVv plans, IM-BRT was found to be significantly superior to SC-BRT for the rectum (D2cc, V5Gy, and V7Gy), bladder (D2cc and V7Gy), and small bowel (D2cc, V5Gy, and V7Gy). On the other hand, DVH parameters of the sigmoid showed large difference between IM-BRT and SC-BRT plans, but it was not statistically significant. Similarly, the use of IM-BRT applicator demonstrated a noticeable dose reduction in all defined OARs when compared with MC-BRT applicator, but statistically significant for the rectum V7Gy (p = 0.03) only. Conclusions While the IM-BRT applicator is still in pre-clinical phase, our investigation demonstrated the proof-of-concept in real patient treatment plans with promising dosimetric results compared with SC-BRT and MC-BRT plans in selected patient group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatih Biltekin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Husnu Fadil Akyol
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Melis Gultekin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Melek Tugce Yilmaz
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ferah Yildiz
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
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Meftahi M, Fields E, Guy C, Song WY. The Design of a Novel Direction Modulated Brachytherapy Vaginal Cylinder Applicator for Optimizing Coverage of the Apex. Med Phys 2022; 49:3926-3935. [DOI: 10.1002/mp.15666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Moeen Meftahi
- Department of Radiation Oncology Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond Virginia USA
| | - Emma Fields
- Department of Radiation Oncology Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond Virginia USA
| | - Christopher Guy
- Department of Radiation Oncology Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond Virginia USA
| | - William Y. Song
- Department of Radiation Oncology Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond Virginia USA
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A comparison between 2D and 3D planning of high-dose-rate vaginal cuff brachytherapy in patients with stage I-II endometrial cancer using cobalt-60. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2021; 13:526-532. [PMID: 34759977 PMCID: PMC8565635 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2021.110312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Post-surgery radiation can reduce the risk of loco-regional relapse in high-intermediate-risk endometrial cancer. High-dose-rate vaginal cuff brachytherapy (HDR-BRT) is an acceptable method of radiation in majority of endometrial cancer cases. Although 2D planning is frequently used for treatment based on physical examination without any imaging, measurement of the dose received by organs-at-risk (OARs) is not possible. Therefore, the present study was the first to compare dose delivered to target and OARs in 2D vs. 3D planning in patients treated with cobalt-60 source. Material and methods In this study, organs including vagina wall, bladder, rectum, and sigmoid were contoured on computed tomography (CT) scan images of 37 endometrial cancer patients, and doses delivered to organs were recorded. Statistics, such as D90, D99, V100, V150, V200, D0.1cc, D1cc, and D2cc were determined. Results D90 and D99 were lower in 3D treatment planning in comparison with 2D. Although V100 was more in 3D planning, V150 and V200 were less. Analyzing D0.1cc, D1cc, and D2cc of OARs revealed that doses given to rectum, sigmoid, and bladder were less in 3D planning compared to 2D. Conclusions Comparison of 2D and 3D planning results showed that 3D planning could deliver an appropriate dose to the target while sparing more OARs.
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Hossain A, Miah S, Ray PK, Ghosh AK, Khatun RA, Khatun J, Habib S, Sarker S. Relationship Between Total Reference Air Kerma and Outcomes of Single-Channel and Tri-Channel Applicators used in High-Dose-Rate Brachytherapy for Cervical Cancer. INDIAN JOURNAL OF GYNECOLOGIC ONCOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s40944-021-00580-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Rishi KS, David S, Pathikonda M, Ramachandra P, Giri GV, Vadaparty A, Srinath BS. Preliminary clinical outcomes of patients treated with vaginal brachytherapy alone using multi-channel vaginal brachytherapy applicator in operated early-stage endometrial cancer. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 26:43-49. [PMID: 33948301 DOI: 10.5603/rpor.a2021.0007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Background Recommendations for adjuvant treatment for postoperative, early-stage endometrial cancer varies from observation through vaginal brachytherapy alone to pelvic radiation. While observation alone can lead to recurrence, external radiotherapy has increased morbidity. The aim of this study is to show our results with vaginal brachytherapy alone using a multichannel applicator for treatment of early-stage endometrial cancer. Materials and methods Consecutive patients undergoing vaginal brachytherapy alone following surgery for early-stage endometrial cancer were examined. A Miami multichannel vaginal brachytherapy applicator was used to deliver HDR brachytherapy in 62 patients from May 2013 to June 2018. CT scan-based images guided planning. A dose of 5.5-6.5 Gy × 4 fractions was prescribed 5 mm from the surface of the applicator. Results At a median follow up of 19 months (6-48 months), 93% of patients treated were alive with no recurrence. Two patients had only local recurrence, and 1 was salvaged with external radiotherapy and chemotherapy. There was only one nodal failure and 2 distant failures. There was no grade 2 or higher vaginal, gastrointestinal or genitourinary toxicity. Conclusion Vaginal brachytherapy alone using a multichannel applicator can be considered for early-stage endometrial cancers without compromising outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karthik S Rishi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sri Shankara Cancer Hospital and Research Center, Bangalore, India
| | - Savitha David
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sri Shankara Cancer Hospital and Research Center, Bangalore, India
| | - Muddappa Pathikonda
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sri Shankara Cancer Hospital and Research Center, Bangalore, India
| | - Prakash Ramachandra
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sri Shankara Cancer Hospital and Research Center, Bangalore, India
| | - G V Giri
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sri Shankara Cancer Hospital and Research Center, Bangalore, India
| | - Annapurna Vadaparty
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Sri Shankara Cancer Hospital and Research Center, Bangalore, India
| | - B S Srinath
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Sri Shankara Cancer Hospital and Research Center, Bangalore, India
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Does inverse planning improve plan quality in interstitial high-dose-rate breast brachytherapy? J Contemp Brachytherapy 2020; 12:166-174. [PMID: 32395141 PMCID: PMC7207228 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2020.94584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To investigate the effect of input parameters for an inverse optimization algorithm, and dosimetrically evaluate and compare clinical treatment plans made by inverse and forward planning in high-dose-rate interstitial breast implants. Material and methods By using a representative breast implant, input parameters responsible for target coverage and dose homogeneity were changed step-by-step, and their optimal values were determined. Then, effects of parameters on dosimetry of normal tissue and organs at risk were investigated. The role of dwell time modulation restriction was also studied. With optimal input parameters, treatment plans of forty-two patients were re-calculated using an inverse optimization algorithm (HIPO). Then, a pair-wise comparison between forward and inverse plans was performed using dose-volume parameters. Results To find a compromise between target coverage and dose homogeneity, we recommend using weight factors in the range of 70-90 for minimum dose, and in the range of 10-30 for maximum dose. Maximum dose value of 120% with a weight factor of 5 is recommended for normal tissue. Dose constraints for organs at risk did not play an important role, and the dwell time gradient restriction had only minor effect on target dosimetry. In clinical treatment plans, at identical target coverage, the inverse planning significantly increased the dose conformality (COIN, 0.75 vs. 0.69, p < 0.0001) and improved the homogeneity (DNR, 0.35 vs. 0.39, p = 0.0027), as compared to forward planning. All dosimetric parameters for non-target breast, ipsilateral lung, ribs, and heart were significantly better with inverse planning. The most exposed small volumes for skin were less in HIPO plans, but without statistical significance. Volume irradiated by 5% was 173.5 cm3 in forward and 167.7 cm3 in inverse plans (p = 0.0247). Conclusions By using appropriate input parameters, inverse planning can provide dosimetrically superior dose distributions over forward planning in interstitial breast implants.
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Outcomes of intermediate-risk to high-risk stage I endometrial cancer: 10-year clinical experiences of using in-house multi-channel applicators in a single center. Chin Med J (Engl) 2020; 132:1935-1941. [PMID: 31365429 PMCID: PMC6708688 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000000382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are only very few reports on clinical outcomes using multi-channel applicators (MCA) for patients with endometrial cancer (EC) in China. We aimed to evaluate the clinical experience of treating intermediate-risk (IR) to high-risk (HR) stage I EC using in-house made multi-channel applicators (IH-MCA) in a single institution. METHODS Three hundred and ninety patients with stage I IR to HR EC were treated with hysterectomy and adjuvant radiotherapy from 2003 to 2015. All patients received post-operative vaginal cuff brachytherapy (VBT) alone or as a boost after external beam radiotherapy (EBRT). The prescriptions were 500 cGy per fraction for a total of 5 to 6 fractions with brachytherapy alone or 400 to 600 cGy per fraction for 2 to 3 fractions if it was combined with EBRT. Two types of applicators including a traditional rigid IH-MCA and a recent model custom-made with 3 dimension printing technology were used for treatment. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to calculate survival rate. RESULTS Follow-up rate was 92.8% and the median follow-up time was 48 months (range 4-172 months). The 5-year overall survival (OS), progression-free survival, local recurrence, and distant metastasis rates for all patients were 96.3%, 92.1%, 2.9%, and 4.8% respectively. Two patients had isolated relapse in vagina outside the irradiated volume. The univariate and multivariate analysis showed that age and grade were the prognostic factors correlated with OS (hazard ratio: 0.368, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.131-1.035, P = 0.048; hazard ratio: 0.576, 95% CI: 0.347-0.958, P = 0.026,). CONCLUSIONS For patients with IR to HR stage I EC, adjuvant VBT alone or in combination with EBRT using IH-MCA led to excellent survival and recurrence rates. Age and grade were the prognostic factors correlated with OS.
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Govindaraj K, Shanmugam S, Sampathrajan S. Design and Development of In-House Multichannel Applicator for HDR Vaginal Brachytherapy and Dosimetric Comparision with Single Channel Applicator. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev 2019; 20:3805-3810. [PMID: 31870125 PMCID: PMC7173395 DOI: 10.31557/apjcp.2019.20.12.3805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Endometrial cancer (EC) is a leading cause of female cancer in developed countries. The total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy with pelvic lymph node dissection is the primary management of endometrial cancer. Afterwards vaginal brachytherapy can be preferred either alone or combined with external beam radiotherapy to avoid the vault recurrence. This study was to assess the in-house multichannel applicator for HDR vaginal brachytherapy and dosimetric compression with the single channel applicator through DVHs. The main objective of this study was to design and development of an in-house multichannel applicator for HDR vaginal brachytherapy and dosimetric compression with the single channel applicator through DVHs. Materials and Methods: The multichannel applicator is a solid cylinder with 3 cm diameter, 13 cm length. It has a central channel surrounded by eight channels with a periphery arrangement in a single circle. We randomly selected eleven patients with endometrial carcinoma and 7Gy/per fraction of HDR dose was prescribed to CTV. Retrospectively, two 3D inverse treatment plans were created for each patient, with single channel loading and multichannel loading and the dose distribution of both plans could be compared. CTV coverage, rectum and bladder doses were compared. Results: The DVH analysis showed statistically significant difference between single and multichannel plan, that is for D95 of CTV (p=0.008), D100 of CTV (p=0.004) and 2cc of CTV (p=0.003). The p value for 1cc, 2cc and V70 are 0.003, 0.003 and 0.003 for rectum. On the other hand, bladder DVHs showed large difference between single and multichannel plan yet it is not statistically significant, and the p values for 1cc, 2cc and V 80 are 0.012, 0.009 and 0.225. Conclusion: The authors conclude that in house multichannel applicator with 3D inverse treatment planning techniques improves the dosimetric advantage over single channel applicators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kesavan Govindaraj
- Department of Radiotherapy, Vadamalayan Hospitals Integrated Cancer Centre, Madurai, India.,Research and Development Centre, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, India
| | - Senthilkumar Shanmugam
- Research and Development Centre, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, India.,Department of Radiotherapy, Madurai Medical College and Govt. Rajaji Hospital, Madurai, India
| | - Sowmiya Sampathrajan
- Department of Radiotherapy, Vadamalayan Hospitals Integrated Cancer Centre, Madurai, India
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Gebhardt BJ, Vargo JA, Kim H, Houser CJ, Glaser SM, Sukumvanich P, Olawaiye AB, Kelley JL, Edwards RP, Comerci JT, Courtney-Brooks M, Beriwal S. Image-based multichannel vaginal cylinder brachytherapy for the definitive treatment of gynecologic malignancies in the vagina. Gynecol Oncol 2018; 150:293-299. [PMID: 29929925 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2018.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Revised: 06/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/07/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Brachytherapy is integral to vaginal cancer treatment and is typically delivered using an intracavitary single-channel vaginal cylinder (SCVC) or an interstitial brachytherapy (ISBT) applicator. Multi-channel vaginal cylinder (MCVC) applicators allow for improved organ-at-risk (OAR) sparing compared to SCVC while maintaining target coverage. We present clinical outcomes of patients treated with image-based high dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy using a MCVC. METHODS AND MATERIALS Sixty patients with vaginal cancer (27% primary vaginal and 73% recurrence from other primaries) were treated with combination external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) and image-based HDR brachytherapy utilizing a MCVC if residual disease thickness was 7 mm or less after EBRT. All pts received 3D image-based BT to a total equivalent dose of 70-80 Gy. RESULTS The median high-risk clinical target volume was 24.4 cm3 (interquartile range [IQR], 14.1), with a median dose to 90% of 77.2 Gy (IQR, 2.8). After a median follow-up of 45 months (range, 11-78), the 4-year local-regional control, distant control, DFS, and OS rates were 92.6%, 76.1%, 64.0%, and 67.2%, respectively. The 4-year LRC rates were similar between the primary vaginal (92%) and recurrent (93%) groups (p = 0.290). Pts with lymph node positive disease had a lower rate of distant control at 4 years (22.7% vs. 89.0%, p < 0.001). There were no Grade 3 or higher acute complications. The 4-year rate of late Grade 3 or higher toxicity was 2.7%. CONCLUSIONS Clinical outcomes of pts with primary and recurrent vaginal cancer treated definitively in a systematic manner with combination EBRT with image-guided HDR BT utilizing a MCVC applicator demonstrate high rates of local control and low rates of severe morbidity. The MCVC technique allows interstitial implantation to be avoided in select pts with ≤7 mm residual disease thickness following EBRT while maintaining excellent clinical outcomes with extended 4-year follow-up in this rare malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian J Gebhardt
- Department of Radiation Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - John A Vargo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Hayeon Kim
- Department of Radiation Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Christopher J Houser
- Department of Radiation Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Scott M Glaser
- Department of Radiation Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Paniti Sukumvanich
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Alexander B Olawaiye
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Joseph L Kelley
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Robert P Edwards
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - John T Comerci
- Department of Gynecologic Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Sushil Beriwal
- Department of Radiation Oncology, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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Carrara M, Cusumano D, Giandini T, Tenconi C, Mazzarella E, Grisotto S, Massari E, Mazzeo D, Cerrotta A, Pappalardi B, Fallai C, Pignoli E. Comparison of different treatment planning optimization methods for vaginal HDR brachytherapy with multichannel applicators: A reduction of the high doses to the vaginal mucosa is possible. Phys Med 2017; 44:58-65. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmp.2017.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2017] [Revised: 10/20/2017] [Accepted: 11/09/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
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Effects of vaginal cylinder position on dose distribution in patients with endometrial carcinoma in treatment of vaginal cuff brachytherapy. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2017; 9:230-235. [PMID: 28725246 PMCID: PMC5509981 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2017.68171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the impact of different cylinder positions on dosimetry of critical structures in patients with endometrial carcinoma undergoing three-dimensional image-based vaginal cuff brachytherapy (VCB). MATERIAL AND METHODS We delivered VCB at a dose of 4 Gy to a depth of 5 mm in the vaginal cuff of 15 patients using three different cylinder positions (neutral [N], parallel [P], and angled [A]) according to the longitudinal axis of the patient. We analyzed the dose-volume distribution and volumetric variability of the rectum and bladder. We converted the total doses to equivalent doses in 2 Gy (EQD2) using a linear-quadratic model (a/b = 3 Gy). RESULTS The mean rectum volume for the N, P, and A positions was 68.2 ± 22.7 cc, 79.3 ± 33.7 cc, and 74.2 ± 29.6 cc, respectively. The mean rectum volume for the P position was significantly larger than that for the N position (p = 0.03). Relative to the N position, the A position resulted in a lower total EQD2 in the highest irradiated 2 cc (D2cc; p = 0.001), 1 cc (D1cc; p = 0.004), and 0.1 cc (D0.1cc; p = 0.047) of the rectum. Similarly, the P position resulted in a lower EQD2 in the D2cc (p = 0.018) and D1cc (p = 0.024) of the rectum relative to the N position. In the bladder, the P position resulted in a higher EQD2 in the D2cc relative to the N position (p = 0.02). There was no dosimetric difference between the P and A positions in either the rectum or the bladder. CONCLUSIONS Vaginal cuff brachytherapy in the P and A positions is significantly superior to that in the N position in terms of rectum dosimetry. The bladder dose in the N position is considerably lower than that in the other positions.
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Harkenrider MM, Block AM, Alektiar KM, Gaffney DK, Jones E, Klopp A, Viswanathan AN, Small W. American Brachytherapy Task Group Report: Adjuvant vaginal brachytherapy for early-stage endometrial cancer: A comprehensive review. Brachytherapy 2017; 16:95-108. [PMID: 27260082 PMCID: PMC5612425 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2016.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2016] [Revised: 03/30/2016] [Accepted: 04/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
This article aims to review the risk stratification of endometrial cancer, treatment rationale, outcomes, treatment planning, and treatment recommendations of vaginal brachytherapy (VBT) in the postoperative management of endometrial cancer patients. The authors performed a thorough review of the literature and reference pertinent articles pertaining to the aims of this review. Adjuvant VBT for early-stage endometrial cancer patients results in very low rates of vaginal recurrence (0-3.1%) with low rates of late toxicity which are primarily vaginal in nature. Post-Operative Radiation Therapy in Endometrial Cancer 2 (PORTEC-2) supports that VBT results in noninferior rates of vaginal recurrence compared to external beam radiotherapy for the treatment of high-intermediate risk patients. VBT as a boost after external beam radiotherapy, in combination with chemotherapy, and for high-risk histologies have shown excellent results as well though randomized data do not exist supporting VBT boost. There are many different applicators, dose-fractionation schedules, and treatment planning techniques which all result in favorable clinical outcomes and low rates of toxicity. Recommendations have been published by the American Brachytherapy Society and the American Society of Radiation Oncology to help guide practitioners in the use of VBT. Data support that patients and physicians prefer joint decision making regarding the use of VBT, and patients often desire additional treatment for a marginal benefit in risk of recurrence. Discussions regarding adjuvant therapy for endometrial cancer are best performed in a multidisciplinary setting, and patients should be counseled properly regarding the risks and benefits of adjuvant therapy.
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MESH Headings
- Adenocarcinoma, Clear Cell/pathology
- Adenocarcinoma, Clear Cell/radiotherapy
- Advisory Committees
- Brachytherapy/methods
- Carcinoma, Endometrioid/pathology
- Carcinoma, Endometrioid/radiotherapy
- Carcinosarcoma/pathology
- Carcinosarcoma/radiotherapy
- Combined Modality Therapy
- Endometrial Neoplasms/pathology
- Endometrial Neoplasms/radiotherapy
- Female
- Humans
- Hysterectomy
- Neoplasm Recurrence, Local
- Neoplasm Staging
- Neoplasms, Cystic, Mucinous, and Serous/pathology
- Neoplasms, Cystic, Mucinous, and Serous/radiotherapy
- Radiotherapy, Adjuvant/methods
- Societies, Medical
- United States
- Vagina
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew M Harkenrider
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL.
| | - Alec M Block
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL
| | - Kaled M Alektiar
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY
| | - David K Gaffney
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Ellen Jones
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Ann Klopp
- Department of Radiation Oncology, MD Anderson Cancer Center, University of Texas, Houston, TX
| | - Akila N Viswanathan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Brigham & Women's Hospital/Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA
| | - William Small
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stritch School of Medicine, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL
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Film based verification of calculation algorithms used for brachytherapy planning-getting ready for upcoming challenges of MBDCA. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2016; 8:326-35. [PMID: 27648087 PMCID: PMC5018527 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2016.61828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2015] [Accepted: 07/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Well-known defect of TG-43 based algorithms used in brachytherapy is a lack of information about interaction cross-sections, which are determined not only by electron density but also by atomic number. TG-186 recommendations with using of MBDCA (model-based dose calculation algorithm), accurate tissues segmentation, and the structure's elemental composition continue to create difficulties in brachytherapy dosimetry. For the clinical use of new algorithms, it is necessary to introduce reliable and repeatable methods of treatment planning systems (TPS) verification. The aim of this study is the verification of calculation algorithm used in TPS for shielded vaginal applicators as well as developing verification procedures for current and further use, based on the film dosimetry method. Material and methods Calibration data was collected by separately irradiating 14 sheets of Gafchromic® EBT films with the doses from 0.25 Gy to 8.0 Gy using HDR 192Ir source. Standard vaginal cylinders of three diameters were used in the water phantom. Measurements were performed without any shields and with three shields combination. Gamma analyses were performed using the VeriSoft® package. Results Calibration curve was determined as third-degree polynomial type. For all used diameters of unshielded cylinder and for all shields combinations, Gamma analysis were performed and showed that over 90% of analyzed points meets Gamma criteria (3%, 3 mm). Conclusions Gamma analysis showed good agreement between dose distributions calculated using TPS and measured by Gafchromic films, thus showing the viability of using film dosimetry in brachytherapy.
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Institutional experience using interstitial brachytherapy for the treatment of primary and recurrent pelvic malignancies. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2016; 8:173-80. [PMID: 27504125 PMCID: PMC4965502 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2016.61062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Accepted: 06/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The study assessed the outcomes of patients at a single institution with locally advanced primary and recurrent pelvic malignancies treated with interstitial high-dose-rate (HDR) or low-dose-rate (LDR) brachytherapy (BT), using a modified Syed-Neblett template. MATERIAL AND METHODS Between 1996 and 2010, 60 patients with primary or recurrent pelvic malignancies were treated with interstitial BT. Thirty three patients had primary malignancies with 6.1% being stage I, 33.3% stage II, 45.5% stage III, and 15.2% stage IV; the remaining 27 patients were recurrent malignancies. Fifty four patients received external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) as part of their treatment course. The median EBRT, BT, and EBRT + BT doses were 45 Gy, 20 Gy, and 65 Gy, respectively. Thirty eight patients received concurrent chemotherapy with EBRT. Complete response (CR) was defined by absence of clinical and radiographic disease on first follow-up. Toxicity was graded as per Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events, version 4.0. RESULTS The median follow-up was 37 months (4-234 months) and initial CR was achieved in 91%. For primary cancers at diagnosis, 5-year local control (LC), 5-year progression-free survival (PFS), 5-year overall survival (OS) were 65%, 64%, and 42% respectively. For recurrent cancers at diagnosis, 5-year LC, 5-year PFS, and 5-year OS were 80%, 51%, and 37%, respectively. There was a significant difference in both OS and PFS among different tumor sites (p < 0.05), with vaginal cancers having the best 5-year OS (55%) and PFS (84%). There was a total of 1 acute toxicity ≥ grade 3, 6 late grade 3 toxicities, and late grade 4 toxicity. CONCLUSIONS Our series suggests that interstitial BT using a modified Syed-Neblett template is a safe and effective treatment for primary or recurrent pelvic malignancies. This technique allowed effective LC and 97% of patients had preservation of both bladder and rectal function.
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Brachytherapy for malignancies of the vagina in the 3D era. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2015; 7:312-8. [PMID: 26622234 PMCID: PMC4643736 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2015.54053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2015] [Revised: 08/19/2015] [Accepted: 08/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaginal cancer is an uncommon malignancy and can be either recurrent or primary. In both cases, brachytherapy places a central role in the overall treatment course. Recent technological advances have led to more advanced brachytherapy techniques, which in turn have translated to improved outcomes for patients with malignancies of the vagina. The aim of this manuscript is to outline the incorporation of modern brachytherapy into the treatment of patients with vaginal cancer including patient selection along with the role of brachytherapy in conjunction with other treatment modalities, various brachytherapy techniques, treatment planning, dose fractionation schedules, and normal tissue tolerance.
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