1
|
M Parvath ES, John NO, Sathyamurthy A, Ramireddy JK, Ram TS. Development and validation of a novel scoring system to predict the risk of uterine perforation during intracavitary brachytherapy for cervical cancer. J Gynecol Oncol 2024; 35:e35. [PMID: 38178701 PMCID: PMC11107278 DOI: 10.3802/jgo.2024.35.e35] [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: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop and validate a novel scoring system for predicting the risk of uterine perforation during brachytherapy (BT) in cervical cancer patients and to stratify patients based on this score to guide the use of ultrasound guidance during BT. METHODS Fifty patients with uterine perforation during BT between January 2018 and December 2020 were included. Common reasons for perforation were identified and a scoring system was developed. This was then applied to a cohort of 50 patients without perforation. The 2 cohorts were compared using the χ² test. To validate the scoring system, all newly diagnosed patients who underwent BT in 2021 were scored, and analysed using χ² test and receiver operator characteristic curves. RESULTS The mean score in the test cohort was 10.16 (range=7-14) and 5.92 (range=5-8) for patients with and without perforation. In the validation cohort, the mean score was 6.9 (range=5-10) and 9.33 (range=7-11) for those with and without perforation. Patients with a score <8 were classified as low risk, while those with a score ≥8 were classified as high risk. Among the criteria evaluated for validation, response to external beam radiotherapy, uterine position, cervico-uterine angle (uterine flexion), identification of cervical os at BT assessment, and the total score were significant predictors, while previous history of perforation, uterine length, and additional uterine anomaly were not. CONCLUSION The novel scoring system is an effective predictor of perforation risk during BT. Implementing this during BT assessment can optimize the need for ultrasound guidance during the procedure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ezhil Sindhanai M Parvath
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dr Ida B Scudder Cancer Centre, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | - Neenu Oliver John
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dr Ida B Scudder Cancer Centre, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | - Arvind Sathyamurthy
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dr Ida B Scudder Cancer Centre, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India.
| | - Jeba Karunya Ramireddy
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dr Ida B Scudder Cancer Centre, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | - Thomas Samuel Ram
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dr Ida B Scudder Cancer Centre, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Jamadagni S, Ponni TR A, P R. Dosimetric comparison of intra-cavitary brachytherapy technique with free-hand (intra-cavitary + interstitial) technique in cervical cancer. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2024; 16:28-34. [PMID: 38584889 PMCID: PMC10993890 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2024.135629] [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: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose The aim of the study was to dosimetrically compare intra-cavitary brachytherapy technique (ICBT) with free-hand (intra-cavitary + interstitial, IC + IS) technique. Material and methods Twenty seven locally advanced carcinoma cervix patients were included in the study. Patients with more than medial 1/3rd parametrial residual disease without extending upto lateral pelvic wall were included, following external beam radiotherapy (EBRT), in which cobalt-60 high-dose-rate (60Co HDR) brachytherapy source was used. Dose for both plans were 6.5 Gy × 4 fractions, 2 fractions per day, 6 hours apart, over 2 days. Free-hand brachytherapy technique, consisted of placement of central tandem and 2 ovoids along with needles without using template, was applied. Two plans were generated by activating and deactivating the needles, and compared by normalizing to V100. Results A total of 79 needles were applied. Using paired-t test, dosimetric comparison of both the plans was done. Free-hand plan had a significant higher mean V90 (volume receiving 90% of the dose) of 94.2% compared with 87.22% in ICBT plan (p ≤ 0.0001). Free-hand and ICBT plans presented a mean V100 values of 89.06% and 81.51% (p ≤ 0.0001), respectively, favoring free-hand plan. The mean D90 (dose to 90% volume), D98, and D100 of free-hand plan were 6.28 Gray (Gy), 4.91 Gy, and 3.62 Gy, respectively, but equivalent parameters in ICBT plan were 5.26 Gy, 3.72 Gy, and 2.61 Gy, with p value ≤ 0.0001. In both the plans, D2cc of the bladder, rectum, and sigmoid were 4.59 Gy, 3.98 Gy, 2.77 Gy, and 4.46 Gy, 3.90 Gy, 2.67 Gy, respectively, with no statistical significance. Conclusions Free-hand brachytherapy (IC + IS) achieves a statistically significant better dose distribution to high-risk clinical target volume (HR-CTV) comparing with ICBT technique with similar dose to organs at risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sumukh Jamadagni
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Vijayanagar Institute of Medical Sciences, Bellary, India
| | - Arul Ponni TR
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ramaiah Medical College and Hospitals, Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bengaluru, India
| | - Revathy P
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Ramaiah Medical College and Hospitals, Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bengaluru, India
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Grover S, Lichter KE, Likhacheva A, Jang JW, Ning MS, Robin TP, Small W, Kudchadker RJ, Swamidas J, Chopra S, Rai B, Sharma SD, Sharma DN, Kuppusamy T, Yang R, Berger D, Mendez LC, Glaser S, Erickson DL, Chino J, Mourtada F, Abdel-Wahab M, Jhingran A, Simonds H, Mahantshetty U. The American Brachytherapy Society and Indian Brachytherapy Society consensus statement for the establishment of high-dose-rate brachytherapy programs for gynecological malignancies in low- and middle-income countries. Brachytherapy 2023; 22:716-727. [PMID: 37704540 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2023.07.003] [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: 05/08/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The global cervical cancer burden is disproportionately high in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), and outcomes can be governed by the accessibility of appropriate screening and treatment. High-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy plays a central role in cervical cancer treatment, improving local control and overall survival. The American Brachytherapy Society (ABS) and Indian Brachytherapy Society (IBS) collaborated to provide this succinct consensus statement guiding the establishment of brachytherapy programs for gynecological malignancies in resource-limited settings. METHODS AND MATERIALS ABS and IBS members with expertise in brachytherapy formulated this consensus statement based on their collective clinical experience in LMICs with varying levels of resources. RESULTS The ABS and IBS strongly encourage the establishment of HDR brachytherapy programs for the treatment of gynecological malignancies. With the consideration of resource variability in LMICs, we present 15 minimum component requirements for the establishment of such programs. Guidance on these components, including discussion of what is considered to be essential and what is considered to be optimal, is provided. CONCLUSIONS This ABS/IBS consensus statement can guide the successful and safe establishment of HDR brachytherapy programs for gynecological malignancies in LMICs with varying levels of resources.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Surbhi Grover
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA.
| | - Katie E Lichter
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Anna Likhacheva
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sutter Health Sacramento, Sacramento, CA
| | - Joanne W Jang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Matthew S Ning
- Division of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Tyler P Robin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
| | - William Small
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stritch School of Medicine, Cardinal Bernadin Cancer Center, Loyola University Chicago, Maywood, IL
| | - Rajat J Kudchadker
- Division of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Jamema Swamidas
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Supriya Chopra
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Bhavana Rai
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Sunil Dutt Sharma
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Daya N Sharma
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Department of Radiation Oncology, National Cancer Institute, AIIMS, New Delhi, India
| | - Thayalan Kuppusamy
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dr Kamakshi Memorial Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ruijie Yang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Cancer Center, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Daniel Berger
- Department of Nuclear Sciences and Division of Human Health, Section of Dosimetry and Medical Radiation Physics, International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lisbeth Cordero Mendez
- Division of Human Health, Applied Radiation Biology and Radiotherapy Section, International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria
| | - Scott Glaser
- Department of Radiation Oncology, City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, Duarte, CA
| | - Delnora L Erickson
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Walter Reed National Military Center, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD
| | - Junzo Chino
- Deptartment of Radiation Oncology, Duke Cancer Center, Durham, NC
| | - Firas Mourtada
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Helen F. Graham Cancer Center and Research Institute, Christiana Care Health System, Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Newark, DE
| | - May Abdel-Wahab
- Department of Nuclear Sciences and Division of Human Health, Section of Applied Radiation Biology and Radiotherapy, International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria
| | - Anuja Jhingran
- Division of Radiation Oncology, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
| | - Hannah Simonds
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Krishna A, Ms A, Srinivas C, Banerjee S, Sunny J, Lobo D. Geographic and demographic distribution and access to brachytherapy in India with its implications on cancer care. Brachytherapy 2023; 22:547-561. [PMID: 37244840 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2023.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Geographic access to medical care varies for nearly every specialty in India. Given the special nature of its treatments, which sometimes necessitate numerous visits over a lengthy period, and the substantial-high fixed cost infrastructure requirements for radiation facilities, radiation oncology is particularly prone to regional inequities in access to care. Brachytherapy (BT) is emblematic of several of these access difficulties since it necessitates specialized equipment, the capacity to maintain a radioactive source, and particular skill sets. The study was conducted to report the availability of BT treatment units in relation to state-level population, overall cancer incidence, and gynecologic cancer incidence. METHODS AND MATERIALS The availability of BT resources at the state level in India was and the population of each state was estimated using data from the Government of India's Census. The number of cancer cases was approximated for each state and union territory. The total number of gynecological cancers that required BT was determined. The BT infrastructure was also compared to those of other nations in terms of the number of BT units available per million people and for various malignancies. RESULTS A heterogeneous geographic distribution of BT units was noted across India. India has one BT unit for every 42,93,031 population. The maximum deficit was seen in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan, and Odisha. Among the states having BT units, the maximum units per 10,000 cancer patients was noted in Delhi (7), Maharashtra (5) and Tamil Nadu (4) and the least was noted in the Northeastern states (<1), Jharkhand, Odisha, and Uttar Pradesh. In BT of gynecological malignancies alone an infrastructural deficit ranging from 1 to 75 units were noted across the states. It was noted that only 104 out of the 613 medical colleges in India had BT facilities. On comparing the BT infrastructure status with other countries India had one BT machine for every 4,181 cancer patients when compared to United States (1 every 2,956 patients), Germany (2,754 patients), Japan (4,303 patients), Africa (10,564) and Brazil (4,555 patients). CONCLUSION The study identified the deficits of BT facilities in terms of geographic and demographic aspects. This research provides a roadmap for the development of BT infrastructure in India.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Krishna
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Athiyamaan Ms
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Challapalli Srinivas
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Sourjya Banerjee
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Johan Sunny
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Dilson Lobo
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Berger D, Van Dyk S, Beaulieu L, Major T, Kron T. Modern Tools for Modern Brachytherapy. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2023:S0936-6555(23)00182-6. [PMID: 37217434 DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2023.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
This review aims to showcase the brachytherapy tools and technologies that have emerged during the last 10 years. Soft-tissue contrast using magnetic resonance and ultrasound imaging has seen enormous growth in use to plan all forms of brachytherapy. The era of image-guided brachytherapy has encouraged the development of advanced applicators and given rise to the growth of individualised 3D printing to achieve reproducible and predictable implants. These advances increase the quality of implants to better direct radiation to target volumes while sparing normal tissue. Applicator reconstruction has moved beyond manual digitising, to drag and drop of three-dimensional applicator models with embedded pre-defined source pathways, ready for auto-recognition and automation. The simplified TG-43 dose calculation formalism directly linked to reference air kerma rate of high-energy sources in the medium water remains clinically robust. Model-based dose calculation algorithms accounting for tissue heterogeneity and applicator material will advance the field of brachytherapy dosimetry to become more clinically accurate. Improved dose-optimising toolkits contribute to the real-time and adaptive planning portfolio that harmonises and expedites the entire image-guided brachytherapy process. Traditional planning strategies remain relevant to validate emerging technologies and should continue to be incorporated in practice, particularly for cervical cancer. Overall, technological developments need commissioning and validation to make the best use of the advanced features by understanding their strengths and limitations. Brachytherapy has become high-tech and modern by respecting tradition and remaining accessible to all.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Berger
- International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna International Centre, Vienna, Austria.
| | - S Van Dyk
- Radiation Therapy Services, Division of Radiation Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - L Beaulieu
- Service de Physique Médicale et Radioprotection, et Axe Oncologie du Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, CHU de Québec, Québec, Canada; Département de Physique, de Génie Physique et d'Optique et Centre de Recherche sur le Cancer, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - T Major
- Radiotherapy Centre, National Institute of Oncology, Budapest, Hungary; Department of Oncology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - T Kron
- Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; Centre for Medical Radiation Physics, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Clinical outcomes of patients treated with template-based high-dose-rate interstitial brachytherapy boost for post-operative recurrent gynecological malignancies: A retrospective analysis. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2022; 14:560-567. [PMID: 36819468 PMCID: PMC9924156 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2022.123976] [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: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To report the clinical outcomes in patients treated with Martinez universal perineal interstitial template (MUPIT)-based interstitial brachytherapy boost for primary and recurrent vault and vaginal cancers, and to perform a comparative analysis with our previously published series of similar patients. Material and methods One hundred and seventeen patients treated between January, 2009 and December, 2015 were evaluated. Descriptive statistics for the patterns of relapse, local recurrence-free survival (LRFS), disease-free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), and late toxicities were carried out. Kaplan-Meier curves were used for survival analysis. All variables with the potential to affect outcomes were tested using log-rank test for statistical significance. Results At a median follow-up of 63 months, LRFS, DFS, and OS at 3/5 years were 77.1%/74.7%, 61%/52%, and 72.3%/63.1%, respectively. Overall treatment time (OTT) of 56 days did not affect outcomes. Bulky tumors and OTT > 63 days adversely affected LRFS. Overall treatment time also significantly impacted DFS and OS. Grade 3-4 late bladder toxicities were observed in 1.7% patients, and grade 3-4 late rectal toxicities in 5% patients. Compared to our previous series, the outcome in the current series is better in terms of severe late toxicities (5% improvement in rectal toxicity, and 2.7% improvement in bladder toxicity) and OS by 10%. This could be attributed to the increasing use of concurrent chemotherapy and relative optimization strategies for organs at risk. Conclusions Patients with primary and recurrent vault and vaginal cancers treated with high-dose-rate interstitial brachytherapy boost using MUPIT resulted in modest clinical outcomes and acceptable late toxicities. OTT was the most important factor affecting the outcomes.
Collapse
|
7
|
Kaliyaperumal V, Banerjee S, Kataria T, Abraham SK, Kamaraj D, Tamilselvan S, Gupta D, Bisht SS, Narang K, Shishak S. Commissioning and Dosimetric Results of an Indigenously Developed Intra-Vaginal Template for Interstitial Plus Intracavitary High dose Rate Image-Guided Brachytherapy of Advanced Cervix Cancer. J Med Phys 2022; 47:322-330. [PMID: 36908497 PMCID: PMC9997539 DOI: 10.4103/jmp.jmp_50_22] [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: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim The goal of this study is to discuss the commissioning and dosimetric parameters achieved during the clinical implementation of an indigenously developed intracavitary (IC) plus interstitial (IS) template for high dose rate (HDR) image-guided brachytherapy (IGBT) in cancer (Ca) cervix. We want to discuss our achieved values of cumulative equi-effective doses (EQD2) for high-risk clinical target volume (HRCTV) and organ at risk (OAR) and compare it with available published results. Materials and Methods Medanta anterior oblique/lateral oblique template has a total of 19 needles including the central tandem. For commissioning the template with needles, the indigenously made acrylic phantom was used. Oblique and straight needles were placed inside the acrylic phantom and a computed tomography (CT) scan was performed. Sixteen patients were treated in HDR IGBT using this template after external-beam radiotherapy. The IGBT plans were evaluated based on EQD2 of target coverage i.e., dose received by 98% (D98%_HRCTV), 90% (D90%_HRCTV), and 50% (D50%_HRCTV) volume of HRCTV, and dose received by 2 cc (D2cc) and 0.1 cc (D0.1cc) of OAR using linear quadratic (LQ) radiobiological model. Results The autoradiographic in radiochromic film shows that the distance between the needle tip and the middle of the source position is 6 mm. The mean D98%_HRCTV and D90%_HRCTV was 76.8 Gy (range: 70-87.7 Gy, P < 0.01) and 84.49 Gy (range: 76.6-96.7 Gy, P < 0.01), respectively. Mean EQD2 of D2cc of the bladder, rectum, and sigmoid was 85.6 Gy (range: 77.5-99.6 Gy, P < 0.03), 74.3 Gy (range: 70.9-76.7 Gy, P < 0.05), and 58.3 Gy (range: 50.6-67.9 Gy, P = 0.01), respectively. The mean total reference air kerma at a 1 m distance is 0.489cGy (range: 0.391-0.681cGy). Conclusions The indigenously developed template could attain satisfactory standards in terms of set parameters for commissioning and acceptable dose volume relations in our clinical use for treating the advanced Ca cervix patients who need IC + IS type of HDR IGBT. The comparative analysis with contemporary applicators was acceptable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Venkatesan Kaliyaperumal
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Medanta Cancer Institute, Medanta the Medicity, Gurgaon, Haryana, India
| | - Susovan Banerjee
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Medanta Cancer Institute, Medanta the Medicity, Gurgaon, Haryana, India
| | - Tejinder Kataria
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Medanta Cancer Institute, Medanta the Medicity, Gurgaon, Haryana, India
| | - Susan K Abraham
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Medanta Cancer Institute, Medanta the Medicity, Gurgaon, Haryana, India
| | - Dayanithi Kamaraj
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Medanta Cancer Institute, Medanta the Medicity, Gurgaon, Haryana, India
| | - Singaravelu Tamilselvan
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Medanta Cancer Institute, Medanta the Medicity, Gurgaon, Haryana, India
| | - Deepak Gupta
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Medanta Cancer Institute, Medanta the Medicity, Gurgaon, Haryana, India
| | - Shyam Singh Bisht
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Medanta Cancer Institute, Medanta the Medicity, Gurgaon, Haryana, India
| | - Kushal Narang
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Medanta Cancer Institute, Medanta the Medicity, Gurgaon, Haryana, India
| | - Sorun Shishak
- Division of Radiation Oncology, Medanta Cancer Institute, Medanta the Medicity, Gurgaon, Haryana, India
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Jääskeläinen E, Anttila M, Palmgren JE, Kärkkäinen H. The impact of different treatment protocols on achieved radiation doses of high-dose-rate brachytherapy for locally advanced cervical cancer: a comparison between 2 fractions in 1 application and separate applications for each fraction. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2022; 14:446-451. [PMID: 36478700 PMCID: PMC9720687 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2022.120765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare radiation doses achieved by image-guided brachytherapy for locally advanced cervical carcinoma implemented with two different protocols. MATERIAL AND METHODS Medical records of 117 patients with locally advanced cervical carcinoma treated with brachytherapy from 2009 to 2018 at our institution were retrospectively reviewed. All patients had received previous external beam radio/chemotherapy. We performed magnetic resonance image-guided adaptive high-dose-rate brachytherapy delivered by intra-cavitary/interstitial applicators. Dose prescription was 7 Gy for four fractions within two weeks. Original schedule of brachytherapy was two fractions delivered on consecutive days with one applicator insertion; this process was repeated one week later (group 1, 54 patients). From 2015 onwards, another protocol of brachytherapy was mainly used, separately performing applicator insertions for each of the four administered fractions (group 2, 63 patients). RESULTS The high-risk clinical target volume (HR-CTV) D90 planning aim (PA) of ≥ 85 Gy (hard constraint) was not achieved in 9 cases out of 54 (17%) in group 1 compared with only 2 out of 63 cases (3%) in group 2 (p = 0.022). A difference between the two groups was also found in the fulfillment of PA 90 Gy (soft constraint) (p = 0.027). We conducted a sub-group analysis of target volume groups and observed that the differences were most pronounced with very large tumors (> 50 cm3). In these patients, PA 85 Gy was only fulfilled in 67% cases when treatment involved two applications, but in all cases with four separate applicator insertions (p = 0.010). CONCLUSIONS In our experience, by performing an applicator insertion for each of the fractions, it is possible to correct the non-optimal position of the applicator immediately, and to deliver better doses for consecutive fractions. As a result, the planning aim is more often achieved, especially for large tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ester Jääskeläinen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Maarit Anttila
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jan-Erik Palmgren
- Radiotherapy Department, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Henna Kärkkäinen
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Tharavichitkul E, M. Galalae R. Ultrasound-Guided Brachytherapy for Cervical Cancer - A Tool for Quality Improvement in Brachytherapy? Radiat Oncol 2022. [DOI: 10.5772/intechopen.101853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Nowadays, brachytherapy is one of the major components to treat inoperable cervical cancer. Brachytherapy yields a higher dose to the target (cervix) while sparing normal tissues. Developments of brachytherapy stepped forward in the previous decade by image-guided brachytherapy (IGBT) turning brachytherapy from point-based planning to volume-based planning and IGBT improves the treatment quality for cervical cancer. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) is utilized in brachytherapy and showed promising results internationally. However, in a limited-resource area, the implementation of IGABT is difficult due to many causes (manpower, equipment, or budgets). To improve the quality in limited resources, ultrasound is introduced. The utilization of ultrasound in brachytherapy practice is to prevent uterine perforation during application. With present data, measurement by ultrasound showed the correlation to MRI measurement in uterine dimensions. With these aspects, there are many researches using ultrasound to improve the quality of treatment in brachytherapy, for example, to guide contouring on CT or to support brachytherapy planning. The use of ultrasound improves the quality of brachytherapy in comparison to conventional planning and supports the improvement in brachytherapy for cervical cancer.
Collapse
|
10
|
Gadda IR, Khan NA, Wani SQ, Baba MH. To evaluate the use of tandem and cylinder as an intracavitary brachytherapy device for carcinoma of the cervix with regard to local control and toxicities. J Cancer Res Ther 2022; 18:740-746. [PMID: 35900548 DOI: 10.4103/jcrt.jcrt_243_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Brachytherapy always remains a keystone in the treatment of gynecological carcinoma for both definitive and adjuvant treatments. Due to the rapid fall-off nature of brachytherapy, the target gets a high dose with a low dose to the normal organs nearby and thereby increasing the tumor control probability. Aims and Objectives This study aims at the evaluation of local control and toxicities in the carcinoma of the cervix using tandem and cylinder as brachytherapy applicator. Materials and Methods The study was conducted between January 2014 and December 2018 in a tertiary care hospital. Thirty-one patients who fulfilled our set criterion of Clinical stage IB3-IVA, Performance status Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group 0-2 were selected. All patients were treated initially with external beam radiotherapy and later by high dose rate intracavitary brachytherapy after completion of external beam radiation therapy (EBRT). A dose of 18-21 Gy was delivered to the residual disease in three sessions with a 1-week interval between each session. The dose was optimized in such a way that the organs at risk (OAR), namely bladder and rectum received doses within their tolerance levels. The patients were continuously monitored using Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 5.0 for both acute and late toxicities and by imaging for local control. Statistical analysis using SPSS Version 20.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, Illinois, USA) was used to evaluate the results. Continuous variables were expressed as mean ± standard deviation, and categorical variables were summarized as frequencies and percentages. Results Out of the 31 patients, 5 (16.1%) experienced radiation-induced Grade 1 skin changes which were due to EBRT, 1 (3.2%) had Grade 1 G. I. T toxicity, 1 (3.2%) had Grade 1 radiation-induced vaginal mucositis after brachytherapy. At 6-8-week follow-up, all the patients showed no evidence of disease on radiological imaging. At 3 months of follow-up, 1 (3.2%) patient had radiation-induced proctitis of Grades 2 and 3 (9.7%) had radiation-induced cystitis of Grades 1 and 1 (3.2%) had Grade 2 cystitis. At 6 months of follow-up, 1 (3.2%) had Grade 1, 1 (3.2%) had Grade 2, and 1 (3.2%) had Grade 3 radiation-induced proctitis. At 3 months of follow-up, 29 (93.5%) patients had no evidence of disease, while 2 (6.5%) were having residual disease on imaging. At 6 months of follow-up, all the patients were disease-free. At 12 months of follow-up, 26 (83.9%) patients were disease-free, 1 (3.2%) had local recurrence, 2 (6.5%) had distant metastasis, and 2 (6.5%) had expired. At 24 months of follow-up, 26 patients were disease-free. Acute and late toxicities were similar to those used in the treatment of carcinoma cervix by standard brachytherapy applicators. Local control was achieved in 83.87% of cases. Two-year survival was 93.5%. Conclusion We observed that the tandem and cylinder applicator is an acceptable applicator to be used for intracavitary brachytherapy. It is safe and simple besides this; the toxicities and local control are similar to the other standard applicators used in brachytherapy in carcinoma cervix. However, the required dose prescription to point A was not possible in all the patients due to limitations of OARs. Furthermore, long-term follow-up is needed to see the patterns of failure, recurrence-free survival, overall survival, and long-term toxicities in the treated patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irfan Rasool Gadda
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Nazir Ahmad Khan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Shaqul Qamar Wani
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Misba Hamid Baba
- Department of Radiological Physics, Sher-I-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Swamidas J, Jain J, Nesvacil N, Tanderup K, Kirisits C, Schmid M, Agarwal P, Joshi K, Naga P, Ranjan Khadanga C, Gudi S, Gurram L, Chopra S, Mahantshetty U. Dosimetric impact of target definition in brachytherapy for cervical cancer – Computed tomography and trans rectal ultrasound versus magnetic resonance imaging. Phys Imaging Radiat Oncol 2022; 21:126-133. [PMID: 35257030 PMCID: PMC8897631 DOI: 10.1016/j.phro.2022.02.002] [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: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study evaluated the dosimetric impact of target volume delineation in Computed Tomography (CT) with assistance from Trans Rectal Ultrasound (TRUS) as compared to Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) image-based brachytherapy for cervical cancer. No statistically significant systematic difference was found between MRI and CT for target structures. However, considerable variations were seen on individual patient level which needs to be considered during clinical practice, which also needs further investigations. Current findings provide useful information to optimally utilize various imaging modalities for brachytherapy planning. Although, CT + TRUS based delineation of target volume, appear promising, MRI remains the gold standard.
Background and Purpose Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) based target definition in cervix brachytherapy is limited by its availability, logistics and financial implications, therefore, use of computed tomography (CT) and Trans Rectal UltraSonography (TRUS) has been explored. The current study evaluated the dosimetric impact of CT + TRUS based target volumes as compared to gold standard MRI. Methods and Materials Images of patients (n = 21) who underwent TRUS followed by MRI and CT, were delineated with High-Risk Clinical Target Volume in CT (CTVHR-CT) and in MRI (CTVHR-MR). CTVHR-CT was drawn on CT images with TRUS assistance. For each patient, two treatment plans were made, on MRI and CT, followed by fusion and transfer of CTVHR-MR to the CT images, referred as CTVHR-MRonCT. The agreement between CTVHR-MRonCT and CTVHR-CT was evaluated for dosimetric parameters (D90, D98 and D50; Dose received by 90%, 98% and 50% of the volumes) using Bland-Altman plots, linear regression, and Pearson correlation. Results No statistically significant systematic difference was found between MRI and CT. Mean difference (±1.96 SD) of D90, D98 and D50 between CTVHR-MRonCT and CTVHR-CT was 2.0, 1.2 and 5.6 Gy respectively. The number of patients who have met the dose constraints of D90 > 85 Gy were 90% and 80% in MR and in CT respectively, others were in the borderline, with a minimum dose of 80 Gy. The mean ± SD dose-difference between MR and CT plans for bladder was significant (5 ± 13 Gy; p = 0.12) for D0.1cm3, while others were statistically insignificant. Conclusion CT + TRUS based delineation of CTVHR appear promising, provide useful information to optimally utilize for brachytherapy planning, however, MRI remains the gold standard.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jamema Swamidas
- Department of Radiation Oncology, ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
- Corresponding author at: Department of Radiation Oncology, Advanced Centre for Treatment Research and Education in Cancer (ACTREC), Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, India.
| | - Jeevanshu Jain
- Department of Radiation Oncology, ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Nicole Nesvacil
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Kari Tanderup
- Department of Clinical Medicine – The Department of Oncology, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Christian Kirisits
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Max Schmid
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Priyanka Agarwal
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital, Varanasi, India
| | - Kishore Joshi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, India
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
| | - Pushpa Naga
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, India
| | - Chira Ranjan Khadanga
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, India
| | - Shivakumar Gudi
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, India
| | - Lavanya Gurram
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, India
| | - Supriya Chopra
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Tata Memorial Centre, Mumbai, India
| | - Umesh Mahantshetty
- Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, Vishakhapatnam, India
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Quantitative and qualitative application of clinical drawings for image-guided brachytherapy in cervical cancer patients. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2021; 13:512-518. [PMID: 34759975 PMCID: PMC8565630 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2021.110273] [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: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Clinical drawings are integral part of image-guided adaptive brachytherapy (IGABT) of cervical cancer. It was used in EMBRACE study protocol as a useful tool. In our study clinical drawings from EMBRACE study were modified to include scales in all the dimensions for more accurate representation of various tumor related volumes. The aim of the present study was to understand patterns of tumor regression and relationship between gross tumor at diagnosis (GTVD) and high-risk clinical target volume (CTV-THR)/intermediate-risk clinical target volume (CTV-TIR) in brachytherapy (BRT), using modified clinical drawings. Material and methods 42 cervical cancer patients, staged as FIGO IIB-IIIB according to EMBRACE study, were enrolled. Advanced schematic 3D mapping diagram (3D-MD) in axial, coronal, and sagittal orientations, with a measurement scale (grid with 10 mm distance) for precise assessment and documentation was applied (through MRI at diagnosis and during brachytherapy). Dimensions, including height, width, and thickness as well as volumes (GTVD, CTV-THR and CTV-TIR) were compared both qualitatively and quantitatively. Results and conclusions We found qualitative and quantitative correlation of the dimensions of final CTV-THR with initial GTVD. Meticulous mapping of tumor volumes can provide useful insights to CTV-THR volume during brachytherapy.
Collapse
|
13
|
Gurram L, Kalra B, Mahantshetty U. Meeting the Global Need for Radiation Therapy in Cervical Cancer-An Overview. Semin Radiat Oncol 2021; 30:348-354. [PMID: 32828390 DOI: 10.1016/j.semradonc.2020.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cervical cancer is the fourth most frequently diagnosed cancer and the fourth leading cause of cancer death in women. The discrepancy in cervical cancer incidence and mortality between developed and developing nations has become increasingly apparent with 84% of the incidence and 88% of the mortality of cervical cancer occurring in low income countries. Access to comprehensive cancer care is a challenge and in particular the radiotherapy facilities. The radiotherapy infrastructure requirement is grossly inadequate with only 30% of the needs available and is even worst in LIC's with only 3% facilities. Additionally, lack of brachytherapy facilities and expertise in LIC's and LMIC's compounds the issue further. Even with continued HPV vaccination programs, there will still be a substantial burden of cervical cancer patients for treatment. Introspection and review in international and national policies, augmentation of (i) infrastructure - affordable & sustainable, (ii) manpower and rigorous training in accessible regions would be vital. International and National collaborative efforts among global organizations and societies, periodic peer reviews, resource stratified treatment guidelines and research, and health education would contribute further to women health. The amalgamation of palliative and hospice care services and radiotherapy facilities seamlessly would be a major step for comprehensive management of cervical cancer patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lavanya Gurram
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Mumbai, India
| | - Babusha Kalra
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Mumbai, India
| | - Umesh Mahantshetty
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Mumbai, India; Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, Visakhapatnam, India.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Ram TS, Thomas V, Sathyamurthy A, Ramireddy JK, John NO, Thomas A, Peedicayil A. Training for next-generation gynaecologic surgical & radiation oncologists - opportunities & challenges. Indian J Med Res 2021; 154:338-345. [PMID: 35295005 PMCID: PMC9131764 DOI: 10.4103/ijmr.ijmr_1734_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The global increase in cancer burden is a challenge for countries with scarce resources. Amongst all the malignancies, gynaecological cancer still continues to have a high incidence and prevalence leading to significant morbidity and mortality. While a multipronged strategy of decreasing the gynaecological cancer burden is a global priority, one of the key strategies to decrease the morbidity and mortality is to train gynaecological oncology specialists. Most of the developed nations have an established gynaecologic oncology training programme in the form of a well-designed curriculum and skill training. However, in developing countries where the actual disease burden of these cancers is highest, such focused training programmes have only started emerging and evolving over the past two decades. While it is a positive step to initiate such training programmes in a country like India, there are still gaps in the uniformity of curriculum and training. Also, exposure to modern practices in gynaecologic oncology surgery, chemotherapy and technology in radiation oncology, especially brachytherapy, is still insufficient in many centres. This review discusses some of the challenges and opportunities in the still evolving programmes for training gynaecologic oncologists in India.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Samuel Ram
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dr Ida B Scudder Cancer Centre, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India,For correspondence: Prof Thomas Samuel Ram, Department of Radiation Oncology Unit I, Dr Ida B Scudder Cancer Centre, Christian Medical College, Vellore 632 004, Tamil Nadu, India e-mail:
| | - Vinotha Thomas
- Department of Gynaecologic Oncology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Arvind Sathyamurthy
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dr Ida B Scudder Cancer Centre, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Jeba Karunya Ramireddy
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dr Ida B Scudder Cancer Centre, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Neenu Oliver John
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Dr Ida B Scudder Cancer Centre, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Anitha Thomas
- Department of Gynaecologic Oncology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Abraham Peedicayil
- Department of Gynaecologic Oncology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Clinical audit of dose-escalated radical radiotherapy for advanced cervical carcinoma using a pragmatic protocol (3 fractions of 8 Gy HDR brachytherapy). Gynecol Oncol Rep 2021; 37:100822. [PMID: 34258362 PMCID: PMC8255169 DOI: 10.1016/j.gore.2021.100822] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Recent image-guided brachytherapy data suggests, dose-escalation to a cumulative EQD2 (equivalent dose delivered at 2 Gy/#) of ≥87 Gy is associated with significantly better disease control. We present a clinical audit of a pragmatic radical radiotherapy protocol for advanced cervical cancer, using fewer fractions of brachytherapy than in the presently most popular protocol. Material & methods Between July 2015 and December 2018, 96 consecutive advanced cervical carcinoma patients were treated by pelvic external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) (50 Gy/25fractions/5 weeks) ± weekly intravenous chemotherapy followed by image guided high dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy, using intracavitary/interstitial/hybrid techniques (intended point A dose: 8 Gy/fractions) × 3 fractions (cumulative target EQD2 ≥ 86 Gy). Insertion was done individually for each fraction of treatment. Results All patients completed their intended radiation protocol. 93.8% patients achieved complete response, while 6.2% patients achieved only partial response; no patients had stable/progressive disease. Out of the patients with partial response, 4.2% (4 out of 5 cases) cases of central/nodal residual disease underwent salvage surgery. At a median follow up of 21 months, 8.3% (8) patients had local failure, 1.1% (1) had nodal failure and 3.1% (3) had distant failures. Median Failure Free Survival was 29 months (26.5-31.5 months). On follow up, 6.3% and 3.2% patients had grade 2 or worse rectal and bladder morbidities respectively. Conclusion The protocol under study has been safe and effective in achieving dose-escalated radical chemoradiation in advanced cervical carcinoma. The use of fewer insertions of brachytherapy is logistically easier & can also be expected to improve compliance.
Collapse
|
17
|
Mahantshetty U, Gurram L, Bushra S, Ghadi Y, Aravindakshan D, Paul J, Hande V, Pilar A, Chopra S, Ghosh J, Shylasree TS, Popat P, Sable N, Maheswari A, Gupta S. Single Application Multifractionated Image Guided Adaptive High-Dose-Rate Brachytherapy for Cervical Cancer: Dosimetric and Clinical Outcomes. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2021; 111:826-834. [PMID: 34146636 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2021.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE A prospective phase 2 study was conducted to evaluate the feasibility and safety of single-application multifractionated (SA-MF), high-dose-rate (HDR), image guided adaptive brachytherapy (IGABT) for cervical cancer. METHODS AND MATERIALS Patients (N = 41) with International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics 2009 stage IIB-IVA disease recruited between 2017 and 2019 underwent SA-MF. After completion of external beam radiation therapy of 50 Gy in 25 fractions, patients received magnetic resonance IGABT. The IGABT protocol consisted of a single brachytherapy (BT) application and treatment with 3 fractions of HDR (9 Gy on day 1; 2 fractions of 7 Gy with a minimum 6-hour gap on day 2) after achieving planning aims of the high-risk clinical target volume (HRCTV) receiving >84 Gy EQD2 and 2 cm3 of the bladder and rectum/sigmoid receiving ≤85 Gy and <71 Gy, respectively. Interfraction variation was addressed by performing computed tomography planning and coregistration using a mutual information-based coordinate system on day 2 before the second fraction. Organ at risk contouring was done on computed tomography, and doses were re-evaluated and reoptimized if required. RESULTS Thirty-eight patients were treated as per the protocol. All patients underwent Intracavitary + Interstitial BT with needles (median, 4; range, 3-11). The mean ± standard deviation HRCTV volume was 41 ± 21 cm3 and HRCTV D90 dose was 87.2 ± 3.6Gy. The 0.1 cm3 and 2 cm3 to bladder, rectum, and sigmoid were -103.2 ± 10.6 Gy and -84.6 ± 6.8 Gy, 82.2 ± 9.5 Gy and -68.3 ± 5.7 Gy, and 83.5 ± 9.8 Gy and -69.5 ± 5.9 Gy, respectively. Six patients required reoptimization before the second fraction to meet planning aims. Mean overall treatment time was 47 ± 6 days. With a median follow up of 22 months (range, 2-37), 2-year local control and disease-free and overall survival were 90.1%, 85%, and 94.5%, respectively. So far 1 patient with grade II and 2 patients with grade III rectal toxicities have been reported. CONCLUSION Magnetic resonance IGABT with SA-MF BT was feasible in 95% of patients. The dosimetric parameters and clinical results achieved so far look promising.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Umesh Mahantshetty
- Department of Radiation Oncology & Medical Physics, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Mumbai, India; Department of Radiation Oncology & Medical Physics, Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital & Research Centre, Visakhapatnam, India.
| | - Lavanya Gurram
- Department of Radiation Oncology & Medical Physics, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Mumbai, India
| | | | - Yogesh Ghadi
- Department of Radiation Oncology & Medical Physics, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Mumbai, India
| | - Dheera Aravindakshan
- Department of Radiation Oncology & Medical Physics, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Mumbai, India
| | - John Paul
- Department of Radiation Oncology & Medical Physics, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Mumbai, India
| | - Vinod Hande
- Department of Radiation Oncology & Medical Physics, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Mumbai, India
| | - Avinash Pilar
- Department of Radiation Oncology & Medical Physics, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Mumbai, India
| | - Supriya Chopra
- Department of Radiation Oncology & Medical Physics, ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, HBNI, Mumbai, India
| | - Jaya Ghosh
- Department of Medical Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, HBNI, Mumbai, India
| | - T S Shylasree
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, HBNI, Mumbai, India
| | - Palak Popat
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, Tata Memorial Hospital, HBNI, Mumbai, India
| | - Nilesh Sable
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, Tata Memorial Hospital, HBNI, Mumbai, India
| | - Amita Maheswari
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, HBNI, Mumbai, India
| | - Sudeep Gupta
- Department of Medical Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, HBNI, Mumbai, India
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Advantages of real-time transabdominal ultrasound guidance in combined interstitial/intracavitary cervical brachytherapy: a case-based review. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2021; 13:211-220. [PMID: 33897796 PMCID: PMC8060964 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2021.105290] [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: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Sub-optimal placement of both intracavitary devices and interstitial needles is a relatively common occurrence in cervical brachytherapy, which may reduce the accuracy of dose distribution and contribute to adverse toxicities. To mitigate complications, improve target dose coverage, and verify proper device placement, implants may be placed under real-time image guidance. Traditionally, transrectal ultrasound has been used for needle guidance. However, we have utilized transabdominal ultrasound (TA-US) in our brachytherapy center. The purpose of this pictorial essay was to provide a pictorial description of TA-US technique, present a retrospective review of our preliminary outcomes adopting TA-US into routine practice, and to discuss the advantages of real-time ultrasound image guidance for placement of intrauterine tandem and interstitial needles.
Collapse
|
19
|
Impact of pre-brachytherapy magnetic resonance imaging on dose-volume histogram of locally advanced cervical cancer patients treated with radiotherapy including high-dose-rate brachytherapy. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2021; 13:32-38. [PMID: 34025734 PMCID: PMC8117705 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2021.103584] [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: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study investigated the suitability of brachytherapy technique selection based on pre-brachytherapy magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in cervical cancer by evaluating dose-volume histogram parameters. Material and methods We retrospectively evaluated data from 61 patients with cervical cancer who underwent pre-brachytherapy MRI within 7 days before their first high-dose-rate brachytherapy treatment, selected according to pre-brachytherapy MRI findings. Combined intracavitary brachytherapy with interstitial techniques (IC/ISBT) or interstitial brachytherapy (ISBT) were favored treatments for poor-responding tumors after concurrent chemoradiotherapy, asymmetrical tumors, bulky parametrial extensions, bulky primary disease, and extensive paravaginal or distal vaginal involvement. Intracavitary brachytherapy (ICBT) was the preferred treatment for small tumors without extensive involvement of the vagina and parametrium. Results The median tumor size was 58 mm on pre-treatment MRI and 38 mm on pre-brachytherapy MRI. On pre-brachytherapy MRI, 13 patients had a tumor with severe vaginal invasion, 15 patients presented with an asymmetrical bulky tumor, and 4 patients had bulky residual tumors. IC/ISBT or ISBT were administered to 26 patients (43%). Median equivalent dose in 2 Gy fractions of clinical target volume D90 was 70.8 Gy for all patients. Median clinical target volume D90 in each brachytherapy session exceeded the prescribed dose in both patients treated with ICBT and IC/ISBT or ISBT. Median equivalent dose in 2 Gy fractions of D2cc to the bladder, sigmoid colon, and rectum was 69.5, 52.0, and 58.4 Gy, respectively. All cases remained within the doses recommended for organs at risk. Conclusions Pre-brachytherapy MRI may be helpful in selecting suitable candidates for each type of brachytherapy and deliver the recommended doses to the tumor and organs at risk, particularly in cases with large tumors, poor response to concurrent chemoradiotherapy, asymmetrical tumors, severe vaginal invasion, extensive parametrial invasion, and/or corpus invasion.
Collapse
|
20
|
Predictive value of Excel forms based on an automatic calculation of dose equivalent in 2 Gy per fraction in adaptive brachytherapy for cervical cancer. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2020; 12:454-461. [PMID: 33299434 PMCID: PMC7701924 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2020.100378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose External beam radiotherapy (EBRT) combined with brachytherapy (BT) is the standard mode of radical radiotherapy for locally advanced cervical cancer. The cumulative equivalent doses in 2 Gy per fraction (EQD2) is an important basis for estimating the probability of local control of tumors and monitoring the occurrence of side effects in normal tissues. The purpose of this study was to explore the predictive value of Excel forms based on an automatic calculation in radical adaptive BT for cervical cancer. Material and methods A retrospective analysis of 119 patients suffering from cervical cancer, treated with radical radiotherapy. All patients were treated with EBRT and adaptive BT. EBRT prescribed dose was 42.0-50.4 Gy in 21-28 fractions. BT nominal prescribed dose was 28 Gy in 4 fractions, separated by one week. Total EQD2 prediction at nth (n = 1-3) BT (TEPBn) or actual cumulative EQD2 (ACEQD2) can be calculated automatically by inputting the physical dose based on an in-house designed application. The relationship between TEPBn and ACEQD2 was evaluated, and the predictive value of Excel forms based on the automatic calculation was analyzed. Results For the volume of high-risk clinical target, there was a significant decrease between BT1 and BT2. Similarly, for the volume of intermediate-risk clinical target, there was a significant decrease between BT2 and BT3. The sensitivity ranges of TEPB1, TEPB2, and TEPB3 prediction were 74.5-91.3%, 83.7-95.7%, and 92.9-99.1%, respectively, and the specificity ranges were 46.7-80.0%, 53.3-90.5%, and 66.7-90.5%, respectively. Conclusions The in-house designed application has the function of quickly reading dose-volume histogram (DVH) parameters from the treatment planning system, which allows for balance between the total dose to target volumes and organs at risk (OARs). Excel forms based on EQD2 automatic calculation presents high predictive accuracy.
Collapse
|
21
|
Application of transrectal ultrasound in guiding interstitial brachytherapy for advanced cervical cancer. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2020; 12:375-382. [PMID: 33293977 PMCID: PMC7690229 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2020.98118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To investigate the role of transrectal ultrasound guidance in interstitial brachytherapy for cervical cancer. Material and methods Forty-eight patients who underwent interstitial brachytherapy treatment for cervical cancer between January 2017 and January 2018 were enrolled in the study. The distances between each inserted needle and the lesion were measured at seven sites by ultrasound (D1-D7) and compared to the corresponding distances (M1-M7) when visualised with nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Measurements were paired on the basis of the observation sites, e.g. D1 and M1, D2 and M2. The statistical differences, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), and linear relationships for the paired measurements were calculated. Results No significant differences were found between the paired M and D measurements, with all ICCs showing high levels of concordance (0.81-0.93). Conclusions Transrectal ultrasound showed strong agreement with MRI results in determining the position of the inserted needles. Transrectal ultrasound is a useful tool for guided interstitial brachytherapy and is appropriate for widespread use in the treatment of locally advanced cervical cancer.
Collapse
|
22
|
Brachytherapy in India: Learning from the past and looking into the future. Brachytherapy 2020; 19:861-873. [PMID: 32948463 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2020.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2020] [Revised: 07/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
India has a longstanding tradition in the practice of brachytherapy and has actively contributed to the scientific literature by conducting prospective studies, clinical audits, developing innovative techniques, and performing randomized studies. Indian investigators have also contributed to international collaborative research, education, training programs along with guideline development for brachytherapy in cervix and head and neck cancers. The present article summarizes the key contributions to scientific literature, current infrastructure, skill set for brachytherapy, existing challenges, and strategy to further strengthen brachytherapy practice in the next decade.
Collapse
|
23
|
Brachytherapy in cervical cancer radiotherapy during COVID-19 pandemic crisis: problems and prospects. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2020; 12:290-293. [PMID: 32695203 PMCID: PMC7366013 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2020.96873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 pandemic has adversely affected general healthcare delivery systems and cancer care throughout the world. The management of locally advanced cervical cancer presents specific challenges in this context, especially brachytherapy and completion of radiotherapy treatment, without compromising the overall treatment time and anticipated outcomes. This article presents in detail the issues and possible solutions with currently available literature for COVID-19 and radiation, in particular brachytherapy management of locally advanced cervical cancers. The review attempts to provide possible explanations and pathways based on COVID-19 testing, brachytherapy processes including application, imaging, and fractionation, keeping in mind the overall treatment time.
Collapse
|
24
|
Chatterjee A, Grover S, Gurram L, Sastri S, Mahantshetty U. Patterns of cervical cancer brachytherapy in India: results of an online survey supported by the Indian Brachytherapy Society. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2019; 11:527-533. [PMID: 31969910 PMCID: PMC6964348 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2019.90448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Cervical cancer is the most common gynecological cancer in India. Uniform protocol-based treatment is important for achieving optimal outcomes. We undertook a survey to investigate patterns of care with special regard to patterns of care in cervical cancer brachytherapy in India. MATERIAL AND METHODS A 17-question online survey was sent to radiation oncologists across India. Respondents were required to have a minimum of 1-year experience. One response per center was accepted and deemed as representative. RESULTS Out of 116 centers, 59 responses were generated. Two-thirds (66.1%) were from academic centers and the majority (96.6%) used high-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy. The centers treated an average of 255 patients per year (median 161 patients, IQR 76-355). The majority were locally advanced cancers (FIGO 2009 stage II-IV 87.5%). External beam radiotherapy (EBRT) schedules were fairly consistent, administering doses of 45-50 Gy over 5 weeks. Brachytherapy was performed towards EBRT completion by 37/59 (62%) and 43/59 (74.3%) centers used a schedule of 7 Gy × 4 fractions (HDR). Brachytherapy was commonly performed under anesthesia (spinal/general: 44% each) with ultrasound (USG) guidance (29%). Computed tomography (CT) imaging (65%) and orthogonal X-rays (35%) represented the most common imaging for planning, while point A prescription (66%) or GEC-ESTRO based parameters (35%) with manual/geometric methods represented the most common methodology for dose volume prescription and optimization. Overall treatment time (OTT) reported was within 49-56 days in 50%. Complex implants (IC + IS) were performed for more than 30% of cases by 3 centers. CONCLUSIONS Our survey suggested a fairly uniform treatment paradigm for cervical cancer brachytherapy, with a progressive shift from 2D to 3D image-based parameters for planning, with persistence of point A based prescription. Further efforts are needed to augment and ease this transition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Chatterjee
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI) Mumbai, India
| | - Surbhi Grover
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania, PA, USA
| | - Lavanya Gurram
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI) Mumbai, India
| | - Supriya Sastri
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI) Mumbai, India
| | - Umesh Mahantshetty
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI) Mumbai, India
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Polish Brachytherapy Society - Presidential opening: Chasing Brachytherapy. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2019; 11:38446. [PMID: 31749846 PMCID: PMC6854867 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2019.89381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
|