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Cousins MM, Heckman P, Short E, Narayana V, Bryant AK, Evans C, Hixson G, Hurley P, McLaughlin PW. Rectal sparing in prostate radiotherapy with combination-brachytherapy and hydrogel spacer. Brachytherapy 2022; 21:300-307. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2021.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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2
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Tan X, Yu P, Lim KB, Chui CK. Robust path planning for flexible needle insertion using Markov decision processes. Int J Comput Assist Radiol Surg 2018; 13:1439-1451. [PMID: 29752637 DOI: 10.1007/s11548-018-1783-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2017] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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Calvert AD, Dyer AW, Montgomery VA. Embolization of prostatic brachytherapy seeds to pulmonary arteries: a case study. Radiol Case Rep 2017; 12:34-38. [PMID: 28228874 PMCID: PMC5310242 DOI: 10.1016/j.radcr.2016.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Revised: 09/21/2016] [Accepted: 10/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary seed embolization is a complication of prostatic brachytherapy with varying incidence rates. Key factors that reportedly influence the incidence of seed embolization include planning volume, quantity of seeds, seed placement, and type of seeds (stranded vs free). The clinical implications of seed migration are unclear because sequelae were not demonstrated in multiple short-term studies yet there have been several reports of long-term complications. We report a case of a 56-year-old patient who presented with dyspnea approximately 6 years after brachytherapy treatment for a very low-risk prostate cancer. Chest radiograph showed multiple linear densities overlying the right suprahilar lung. Computed tomography confirmed the location of the densities within the pulmonary arteries in the right upper lobe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander D Calvert
- Department of Radiology, Methodist University Hospital, 1265 Union Ave, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Andrew W Dyer
- Department of Radiology, Methodist University Hospital, 1265 Union Ave, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Van A Montgomery
- Department of Radiology, Methodist University Hospital, 1265 Union Ave, Memphis, TN, USA
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Huang MW, Zhang JG, Zheng L, Liu SM, Yu GY. Accuracy evaluation of a 3D-printed individual template for needle guidance in head and neck brachytherapy. JOURNAL OF RADIATION RESEARCH 2016; 57:662-667. [PMID: 27422928 PMCID: PMC5137284 DOI: 10.1093/jrr/rrw033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2015] [Revised: 12/30/2015] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
To transfer the preplan for the head and neck brachytherapy to the clinical implantation procedure, a preplan-based 3D-printed individual template for needle insertion guidance had previously been designed and used. The accuracy of needle insertion using this kind template was assessed in vivo In the study, 25 patients with head and neck tumors were implanted with 125I radioactive seeds under the guidance of the 3D-printed individual template. Patients were divided into four groups based on the site of needle insertion: the parotid and masseter region group (nine patients); the maxillary and paranasal region group (eight patients); the submandibular and upper neck area group (five patients); and the retromandibular region group (six patients). The distance and angular deviations between the preplanned and placed needles were compared, and the complications and time required for needle insertion were assessed. The mean entrance point distance deviation for all 619 needles was 1.18 ± 0.81 mm, varying from 0.857 ± 0.545 to 1.930 ± 0.843 mm at different sites. The mean angular deviation was 2.08 ± 1.07 degrees, varying from 1.85 ± 0.93 to 2.73 ± 1.18 degrees at different sites. All needles were manually inserted to their preplanned positions in a single attempt, and the mean time to insert one needle was 7.5 s. No anatomical complications related to inaccurately placed implants were observed. Using the 3D-printed individual template for the implantation of 125I radioactive seeds in the head and neck region can accurately transfer a CT-based preplan to the brachytherapy needle insertion procedure. Moreover, the addition of individual template guidance can reduce the time required for implantation and minimize the damage to normal tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Wei Huang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing100081, P. R. China
| | - Jian-Guo Zhang
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing100081, P. R. China
| | - Lei Zheng
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing100081, P. R. China
| | - Shu-Ming Liu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing100081, P. R. China
| | - Guang-Yan Yu
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology, Beijing100081, P. R. China
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Mahdavi SS, Spadinger IT, Chng NT, Morris WJ. Robustness to source displacement in dual air kerma strength planning for focal low-dose-rate brachytherapy of prostate cancer. Brachytherapy 2016; 15:642-9. [PMID: 27263060 DOI: 10.1016/j.brachy.2016.04.388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2016] [Revised: 04/08/2016] [Accepted: 04/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe the use of dual source strength implants for focal low-dose-rate brachytherapy. METHODS AND MATERIALS An interneedle dual source strength planning strategy is described for focal low-dose-rate brachytherapy of the prostate. The implanted treatment plans were designed using peripheral (except near the rectum) needles loaded with high strength (0.9 U) sources and central needles loaded with low strength (0.4 U) sources ("interneedle" dual strength planning). This approach has been applied for focally treating 3 patients. In this article, we compare the characteristics and robustness to source motion of interneedle dual strength planning with four alternative planning strategies (single strength high, low, and intermediate, and intraneedle dual strength) on 50 simulated cases. RESULTS Interneedle dual source strength planning results in greater robustness to source motion and overall lower seed and needle density compared to the standard low source strength planning currently used in our centre. This planning approach is also significantly superior to single strength high, single strength intermediate and intraneedle dual strength planning strategies in terms of high dose to the urethral avoidance structure. CONCLUSIONS The use of interneedle dual source strength treatment plans for focal low-dose-rate brachytherapy is possibly the practical solution for limiting the density of sources required to deliver the prescribed dose while limiting proximity of high strength sources to organs at risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Sara Mahdavi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Vancouver Centre, British Columbia Cancer Agency, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
| | - Ingrid T Spadinger
- Department of Medical Physics, Vancouver Centre, British Columbia Cancer Agency, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Nicholas T Chng
- Department of Medical Physics, Centre for the North, British Columbia Cancer Agency, Prince George, BC, Canada
| | - W James Morris
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Vancouver Centre, British Columbia Cancer Agency, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Abolhassani N, Patel R, Moallem M. Needle insertion into soft tissue: a survey. Med Eng Phys 2006; 29:413-31. [PMID: 16938481 DOI: 10.1016/j.medengphy.2006.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 310] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2005] [Revised: 06/26/2006] [Accepted: 07/04/2006] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Needle insertion in soft tissue has attracted considerable attention in recent years due to its application in minimally invasive percutaneous procedures such as biopsies and brachytherapy. This paper presents a survey of the current state of research on needle insertion in soft tissue. It examines the topic from several aspects, e.g. modeling needle insertion forces, modeling tissue deformation and needle deflection during insertion, robot-assisted needle insertion, and the effect of different trajectories on tissue deformation. All studies show that the axial force of a needle during insertion in soft tissue is the summation of different forces distributed along the needle shaft such as stiffness force, frictional force and cutting force. Some studies have modeled these forces. The force data in some procedures is used for identifying tissue layers as the needle is inserted or for path planning. Needle deflection and tissue deformation are major problems for accurate needle insertion and attempts have been made to model them. Using current models several insertion techniques have been developed which are briefly reviewed in this paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niki Abolhassani
- Canadian Surgical Technologies & Advanced Robotics (CSTAR), London, Ontario, Canada.
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Eshleman JS, Davis BJ, Pisansky TM, Wilson TM, Haddock MG, King BF, Darby CH, Lajoie WN, Oberg AL. Radioactive seed migration to the chest after transperineal interstitial prostate brachytherapy: extraprostatic seed placement correlates with migration. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2004; 59:419-25. [PMID: 15145158 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2003.10.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2003] [Accepted: 10/15/2003] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine the incidence of seed migration detected on chest X-ray and to identify the predictors associated with its occurrence. METHODS AND MATERIALS Between May 1998 and April 2000, 102 patients underwent permanent prostate brachytherapy at our institution and 100 were eligible for the study. Chest X-rays obtained at follow-up were examined for the number and location of seeds. The patient and treatment variables potentially associated with the occurrence and number of seed migrations were analyzed. RESULTS One or more seeds were identified on the chest X-rays of 55 (55%) of 100 patients. The mean number of intrathoracic seeds in patients with migration was 2.2 (range, 1-10), and the proportion of seeds that migrated to the thorax was 0.98%. The rate of extraprostatic seeds planned was 43.9%, and postimplant CT identified 37.9% in such a location. The number of seeds planned for extraprostatic placement and below the apex were statistically significant (alpha = 0.05) predictors in univariate logistic analysis. Multivariate analysis revealed the planned number of extraprostatic seeds as the only statistically significant predictor (p = 0.04). CONCLUSION Extraprostatic placement of loose seeds is associated with an increased likelihood for, and frequency of, seed migration to the thorax. Nonetheless, the small proportion of implanted seeds that migrated (<or=1%) is highly unlikely to have significant dosimetric consequences.
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Beaulieu L, Archambault L, Aubin S, Oral E, Taschereau R, Pouliot J. The robustness of dose distributions to displacement and migration of 125I permanent seed implants over a wide range of seed number, activity, and designs. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2004; 58:1298-308. [PMID: 15001275 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2003.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2003] [Revised: 11/12/2003] [Accepted: 11/13/2003] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the robustness of permanent prostate implant dosimetry for various (125)I seed activities and various seed models. The dosimetric impact of seed misplacement and seed migration (seed loss) is also taken into account using various standard dose indices. METHODS AND MATERIALS A dose-based inverse planning algorithm is used for automated dosimetric plan creation (45-60 s per plan) and provides an unbiased way to compare the robustness of various optimal dosimetric plans. Seed misplacement and seed migration are simulated by way of Monte Carlo, based on the measured displacement distributions from clinical postimplant cases. Plans were generated for seed activities between 0.2 and 1.4 mCi (0.25 to 1.78 U) and for 11 different seed models. RESULTS The numbers of seeds and needles are shown to decrease rapidly for a seed activity between 0.3 mCi and 0.6 mCi (0.38 and 0.76 U). The loss in V100, from 100%, because of seed misplacement is below 10% for an apparent activity ranging from 0.2 to 0.9 mCi (0.25 to 1.14 U). A minimum degradation in V100 is observed around 0.6-0.7 mCi (0.76-0.89 U). D90 increases from 150 to 170 Gy between 0.3 and 0.7 mCi (0.38 and 0.89 U) and decreases afterward to fall below 140 Gy at higher activity. V200 and D10 to the target volume both show an increase in hot spots up to 0.7 mCi, and then decrease linearly at higher activities for all seed models. V200 and D10 to the urethra remain about constant for all seed activities up to 0.8 mCi (1.02 U), at which point they start to decrease. All seed models follow this general trend. CONCLUSIONS Plans were shown to be robust to misplacement and migration of seeds over a wide range of seed activity and for various seed models. With a properly tuned inverse planning algorithm able to ensure the dose coverage and protection for the organs at risk in the presence of placement errors (displacement and migration), the choice of a preferred seed activity, in a range up to about 0.7 mCi (0.89 U), is open. The upper part of this range offers the opportunity to significantly reduce the number of seeds and needles, thus reducing surgical trauma to the patient, saving time in an operating room planning setting, and reducing the cost of a permanent prostate implant procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luc Beaulieu
- Département de radio-oncologie and Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de L'Université Laval, Hôtel-Dieu de Québec, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Québec, Québec City, Canada.
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9
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Matzkin H, Kaver I, Bramante-Schreiber L, Agai R, Merimsky O, Inbar M. Comparison between two iodine-125 brachytherapy implant techniques: pre-planning and intra-operative by various dosimetry quality indicators. Radiother Oncol 2003; 68:289-94. [PMID: 13129637 DOI: 10.1016/s0167-8140(03)00242-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To prospectively compare two widely used seed implant techniques: pre-planning and intra-operative planning, based on 1 month post-implant CT-based evaluation. METHODS We report results of a detailed 1 month post-operative dosimetric evaluation and comparison between 142 consecutive men with prostate adenocarcinoma treated by the pre-planning methodology and 214 men treated with the real-time, intra-operative seed implant method. RESULTS Baseline parameters patient's age, Gleason score, clinical stage, and gland volume were similar in both groups (p>0.05). Length of physicist time and operating room team time were more than double in the pre-planned group compared to the intra-operative one (205 vs 100 min). Based on day 30 post-implant CT, for patients treated with the pre-planning method, mean V90, V100 and V150 (percent prostate volume receiving 90, 100 and 150% of the prescribed dose) were 67.5, 58.35 and 21.5%, respectively, while for the intra-operative group they were 97.9, 95.2 and 45%, respectively (p<0.01). Mean D90, expressed as percent of target matched peripheral dose (minimal dose covering 90% of the gland volume) was 53% for the pre-planned group and 114% for the intra-operative group of men (p<0.01). Short-term morbidity was minimal in both groups and did not correlate with the technique employed. CONCLUSIONS This large-scale comparison of implant adequacy favours real-time intra-operative method. While all dosimetric parameters are significantly better with this method, no increased early morbidity was noted. Longer-term PSA-based clinical outcome should substantiate our contention of the superiority of the intra-operative method when compared to the pre-planning one.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haim Matzkin
- Department of Urology, Sourasky Tel Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv University, 6 Weizmann Street, Tel Aviv 64329, Israel
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10
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Sloboda RS, Pedersen JE, Halperin R. Is there a preferred strength for regularly spaced 125I seeds in inverse-planned prostate implants? Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2003; 55:234-44. [PMID: 12504058 DOI: 10.1016/s0360-3016(02)04123-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine whether a preferred seed strength exists for 125I prostate implants preplanned using a fixed intraneedle seed spacing of 1 cm and an objective needle placement strategy within the planning target volume (PTV), and incorporating explicit dose-volume constraints for the PTV and tissues at risk. METHODS AND MATERIALS Prostate, urethra, and rectum contours for 10 patients were obtained from transrectal ultrasound studies. The PTV was defined in accordance with Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) 0019 protocol. Inverse planning software was used to optimally arrange seeds of strength 0.3-0.8 U to cover the PTV to D(Rx) = 145 Gy, and limit urethra and rectum doses to 150% and 100% of D(Rx), respectively. Isodose distributions and dosimetric indices were calculated: V(200), V(150), V(100), V(90), D(100), D(90) for PTV; V(150) for urethra; and V(100) for rectum. For seeds of strength 0.414 and 0.6 U and three prostate sizes, the sensitivity of V(90) and D(90) to elementary perturbations of the optimal seed arrangement were examined. RESULTS For our planning scenario, 125I seeds of strength 0.5-0.6 U provided the best possible PTV coverage while maintaining V(200) at approximately 25%. The source arrangement for 0.6-U seeds was only modestly more sensitive to perturbations than that for 0.414-U seeds. These findings may not be applicable to implants planned manually or that involve needle placement outside the PTV. CONCLUSION Given a particular source arrangement, inverse planning aimed at maximizing dosimetric coverage of the prostate while limiting doses to the urethra and rectum can be used to search for a preferred seed strength. For regularly spaced sources within the PTV, higher strength seeds can provide better dose coverage and better urethral protection than lower strength seeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ron S Sloboda
- Department of Medical Physics, Cross Cancer Institute, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
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Thompson SA, Fung AYC, Zaider M. Optimal needle arrangement for intraoperative planning in permanent I-125 prostate implants. Phys Med Biol 2002; 47:N209-15. [PMID: 12222865 DOI: 10.1088/0031-9155/47/16/402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
One limitation of intraoperative planning of permanent prostate implants is that needles must already be in the gland before planning images are acquired. Improperly placed needles often restrict the capability of generating optimal seed placement. We developed guiding principles for the proper layout of needles within the treatment volume. The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center planning system employs a genetic algorithm to find the optimal seed implantation pattern consistent with pre-assigned constraints (needle geometry, uniformity, conformity and the avoidance of high doses to urethra and rectum). Ultrasound volumes for twelve patients with 1-125 implants were used to generate six plans per patient (total 72 plans) with different needle arrangements. The plans were evaluated in terms of V100 (percentage prostate volume receiving at least the prescription dose), U135 (percentage urethra volume receiving at least 135% of prescription dose), and CI (conformity index, the ratio of treatment volume to prescription dose volume.) The method termed POSTCTR, in which needles were placed on the periphery of the largest ultrasound slice and posterior central needles were placed as needed, consistently gave superior results for all prostate sizes. Another arrangement, labelled POSTLAT, where the needles were placed peripherally with additional needles in the posterior lateral lobes, also gave satisfactory results. We advocate two needle arrangements, POSTCTR and POSTLAT, with the former giving better results.
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Affiliation(s)
- S A Thompson
- Department of Medical Physics, North Shore-Long Island Jewish Health System, Manhassett, NY 11030, USA
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Sidhu S, Morris WJ, Spadinger I, Keyes M, Hilts M, Harrison R, Otto K, McKenzie M, Agranovich A. Prostate brachytherapy postimplant dosimetry: a comparison of prostate quadrants. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2002; 52:544-52. [PMID: 11872303 DOI: 10.1016/s0360-3016(01)02672-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate postimplant dosimetry for different regions of the prostate gland in patients treated with transperineal 125Iodine brachytherapy implants for low- and intermediate-risk prostate cancer. METHODS AND MATERIALS Two hundred eighty-four patients treated with permanent interstitial prostate brachytherapy comprised the study population. A nonuniform, urethral-sparing algorithm was used to plan all patients. Prostate contours were outlined on postimplant CT images. Prostate volumes were then divided into four quadrants: anterior-superior quadrant (ASQ), posterior-superior quadrant (PSQ), anterior-inferior quadrant (AIQ), and posterior-inferior quadrant (PIQ). Dose-volume histograms (DVHs) were calculated for the whole prostate and each quadrant. RESULTS The mean postimplant V(100) +/- 95% confidence (the percent prostate volume encompassed within the isodose surface comprising the prescription dose = 144 Gy) for the ASQ was 78.5 +/- 1.9, which was significantly lower than that of the PSQ, AIQ, and PIQ in which the V(100) plus minus 95% confidence values were 94.9 +/- 0.8, 92.6 +/- 1.2, and 98.7 +/- 0.3, respectively. The mean V(100) +/- 95% confidence for the whole prostate was 90.4 +/- 0.8. Mean values for V(150) and D(90) (the minimum dose in Gy received by 90% of the target volume) for the four quadrants and the whole prostate showed similar results. CONCLUSIONS Underdosed areas of the planning target volume (PTV), if present, were largely confined to the ASQ, which received a significantly lower dose, on average, compared to the other three quadrants of the prostate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabeena Sidhu
- BC Cancer Agency, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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13
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Wei JT, Dunn RL, Sandler HM, McLaughlin PW, Montie JE, Litwin MS, Nyquist L, Sanda MG. Comprehensive comparison of health-related quality of life after contemporary therapies for localized prostate cancer. J Clin Oncol 2002; 20:557-66. [PMID: 11786586 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2002.20.2.557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 200] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Health-related quality-of-life (HRQOL) concerns are pivotal in choosing prostate cancer therapy. However, concurrent HRQOL comparison between brachytherapy, external radiation, radical prostatectomy, and controls is hitherto lacking. HRQOL effects of hormonal adjuvants and of cancer control after therapy also lack prior characterization. PATIENTS AND METHODS A cross-sectional survey was administered to patients who underwent brachytherapy, external-beam radiation, or radical prostatectomy during 4 years at an academic medical center and to age-matched controls. HRQOL among controls was compared with therapy groups. Comparison between therapy groups was performed using regression models to control covariates. HRQOL effects of cancer progression were evaluated. RESULTS One thousand fourteen subjects participated. Compared with controls, each therapy group reported bothersome sexual dysfunction; radical prostatectomy was associated with adverse urinary HRQOL; external-beam radiation was associated with adverse bowel HRQOL; and brachytherapy was associated with adverse urinary, bowel, and sexual HRQOL (P < or =.0002 for each). Hormonal adjuvant symptoms were associated with significant impairment (P <.002). More than 1 year after therapy, several HRQOL outcomes were less favorable among subjects after brachytherapy than after external radiation or radical prostatectomy. Progression-free subjects reported better sexual and hormonal HRQOL than subjects with increasing prostate-specific antigen (P <.0001). CONCLUSION Long-term HRQOL after prostate brachytherapy showed no benefit relative to radical prostatectomy or external-beam radiation and may be less favorable in some domains. Hormonal adjuvants can be associated with significant impairment. Progression-free survival is associated with HRQOL benefits. These findings facilitate patient counseling regarding HRQOL expectations and highlight the need for prospective studies sensitive to urinary irritative and hormonal concerns in addition to incontinence, sexual, and bowel HRQOL domains.
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Affiliation(s)
- John T Wei
- Veterans Affairs Center for Practice Management and Outcomes Research, Ann Arbor Veterans Affairs Medical Center, USA
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14
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Stock RG, Stone NN, Lo YC, Malhado N, Kao J, DeWyngaert JK. Postimplant dosimetry for (125)I prostate implants: definitions and factors affecting outcome. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2000; 48:899-906. [PMID: 11020588 DOI: 10.1016/s0360-3016(00)00707-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE An analysis of CT-based dosimetry was performed to assess the efficacy of the real time method of prostate implantation, explore the relationship of various dose descriptions and determine implant factors affecting outcome. METHODS AND MATERIALS Between 7/95 and 8/99, 297 patients underwent (125)I implants for T1-T2 prostate cancer and had CT-based dosimetry performed (TG43 formalism). Dosimetry was performed 1 month postimplant. Using a dose-volume histogram, doses delivered to 100%, 95%, 90%, and 80% of the prostate (D100, D95, D90, D80, respectively) as well as percentages of the gland receiving 240 Gy, 160 Gy, 140 Gy (V240, V160, V140, respectively) were reported. Correlations between the various dose parameters and D90 were generated. The effect of the number of seeds implanted, seeds/volume, prostate volume, experience as assessed by time (8/01/99-date of implant), ultrasound probe (mechanical sector vs. dual phased electronic), and the ratio of the CT dosimetry prostate volume/ultrasound implant volume (CT/US vol) were analyzed. RESULTS The median D100, D95, D90, and D80 values were 10,200 cGy, 15,655 cGy, 17,578 cGy, and 19,873 cGy, respectively. The median V240, V160, and V140 were 56%, 94%, and 98%, respectively. Correlations of dose descriptions found a close relationship of D95, D80, V240, V160, and V140 with D90 with r values of 0.928, 0.973, 0.911, 0.816, and 0.733, respectively. D100 correlated poorly with D90 (r = 0.099). Using a stepwise regression analysis, CT/US vol ratio, prostate volume, and seed number were the only significant factors affecting D90 with CT/US vol ratio having the greatest effect. The dual-phased electronic probe was associated with fewer D90 values of less than 140 Gy (2%) compared to the mechanical sector probe (14%) (p = 0.02). CONCLUSION CT-based dosimetry results reveal the real-time implant technique to be an effective method of prostate implantation. Factors associated with more precise implantation, such as decreased postimplant edema, new technology, and increased number of seeds will lead to higher D90 values.
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Affiliation(s)
- R G Stock
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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15
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Brown D, Colonias A, Miller R, Benoit R, Cohen J, Arshoun Y, Galloway M, Karlovits S, Wu A, Johnson M, Quinn A, Kalnicki S. Urinary morbidity with a modified peripheral loading technique of transperineal (125)i prostate implantation. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2000; 47:353-60. [PMID: 10802359 DOI: 10.1016/s0360-3016(00)00433-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Analysis of urinary morbidity within the first 12 months following a modified peripheral loading technique for permanent transperineal transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) guided (125)I prostate implantation and comparison of urinary morbidity with various clinical and implant parameters. MATERIALS AND METHODS Between October 1, 1996, and March 11, 1998, 87 patients with favorable, early stage prostate cancer were treated with permanent transperineal TRUS guided (125)I prostate implantation. A peripheral loading technique was utilized for source placement with 75-80% source distribution in the periphery and 20-25% source distribution centrally. A mean total activity of 38 mCi of (125)I was implanted (range, 19-66 mCi). The mean source activity was 0.43 mCi/source (range, 0.26-0.61 mCi/source) and the mean number of sources implanted was 88 (range, 56-134). The minimum prescribed dose to the prostate was 145 Gy. The median D(90), V(100), and V(150) were 152 Gy (range, 104-211 Gy), 92% (range, 71-99%), and 61% (range, 11-89%), respectively. The median follow-up time was 19 months (range, 12-29 months). Urinary morbidity was scored at 3 weeks and then at 3-month intervals for the first 2 years using a modified Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) grading system (scale 0-5). RESULTS Most patients developed at least minor urinary symptoms with frequency or nocturia being the most common. Overall, 79% (69/87) of patients experienced urinary morbidity with 21% (18/87) reporting no symptoms. The incidence of overall Grade 1 urinary morbidity was 37% (32/87); Grade 2 morbidity was 37% (32/87); and Grade 3 morbidity was 6% (5/87). There was no Grade 4 or 5 morbidity. The incidence of Grade 0 frequency/nocturia was 36% (31/87); Grade 1 was 33% (29/87); Grade 2 was 30% (26/87); and Grade 3 was 1% (1/87). Grade 0 dysuria was seen in 56% (49/87) of patients; 32% (28/87) had Grade 1; 10% (9/87) Grade 2; and 1% (1/87) Grade 3 dysuria. Most urinary symptoms started a few weeks after implantation and began to subside by 6 months. At 12 months, 22% (19/87) of patients had persistent urinary symptoms (78% Grade 0, 15% Grade 1, 3% Grade 2, and 3% Grade 3). The mean urethral point dose was 174 Gy (range, 99-315 Gy). The mean number of sources implanted correlated significantly with the likelihood of developing acute urinary morbidity (p = 0.03). The total activity implanted also correlated with the morbidity outcome dysuria (p = 0.01) with a threshold seen at 37 mCi. Urethral point dose, source activity, intraoperative TRUS prostate volume, D(90), V(100), V(150), patient age, pretreatment PSA, Gleason score, and T stage did not correlate with morbidity. CONCLUSIONS Permanent transperineal TRUS guided (125)I prostate implantation using a modified peripheral loading technique is associated with mild urinary morbidity that resolves in 78% of patients by 12 months. Grade 3 urinary morbidity was encountered in only 6% (5/87) of patients. Urinary morbidity may be related to the total number of sources implanted and/or the total activity implanted. Overall urinary morbidity was not correlated with urethral point dose, source activity, intraoperative TRUS prostate volume, D(90), V(100), V(150), patient age, pretreatment PSA, Gleason score, and T stage. The low incidence of urinary morbidity may be a consequence of our modified peripheral loading technique and/or the selection of patients with good-to-excellent preimplant urological parameters. Longer follow-up is necessary to assess biochemical control rates and long-term morbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Brown
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, USA
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Stone NN, Stock RG. Prostate brachytherapy in patients with prostate volumes >/= 50 cm(3): dosimetic analysis of implant quality. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2000; 46:1199-204. [PMID: 10725632 DOI: 10.1016/s0360-3016(99)00516-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Permanent implantation with (125)I in patients with localized prostate cancer who have prostate volumes >/= 50 cm(3) is often technically difficult owing to pubic arch interference. The objective of this study was to describe dosimetry outcomes in a group of patients who were implanted using the real-time ultrasound-guided technique who had prostate volumes >/= 50 cm(3). MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 331 patients received an (125)I prostate seed implant from January 1, 1995, to June 1, 1999, of whom 66 (20%) had prostate volumes >/= 50 cm(3) at the time of the procedure. The real-time seed implant method was used in all patients and consisted of intraoperative planning and real-time seed placement using a combination of axial and sagittal ultrasound imaging. Pubic arch interference was managed using an extended lithotomy position or by angling the tip of the ultrasound probe in an anterior direction. No preimplant pubic arch CT scan study was performed and no patients were excluded from treatment because of prostate size. Implant quality was assessed using CT-based dosimetry performed 1 month postimplant. Dose-volume histograms for the prostate, bladder, rectum, and urethra volumes were generated. The target dose for these implants was 160 Gy and an adequate implant was defined as the dose delivered to 90% of the prostate (D90) >/= 140 Gy. The dose delivered to 95% of the prostate (D95) and doses to 30% of the rectal (DRECT30) and urethral (DURE30) volumes were also calculated. RESULTS Prostate volumes in the 66 patients ranged from 50 to 93 cm(3) (median 57, mean 61 cm(3)). Total activity implanted was 27.8-89.1 mCi (median 57 mCi), with a range in activity per seed of 0.36-0.56 mCi (median 0.4 mCi). The prostate D90s and D95s ranged from 13,245 to 22,637 cGy (median 18,750) and 11,856 to 20,853 cGy (median 16,725), respectively. Only one patient (1.5%) had a D90 < 140 Gy. The DURE30 values ranged from 15,014 to 27,800 cGy (median 20,410) and the DRECT30 values were 3137-9910 cGy (median 5515). CONCLUSION Implantation of the large prostate can be accomplished using the real-time method. A total of 98.5% of the patients receive a high-quality implant. In addition, these implants should not put patients at increased risk for significant urinary and bowel complications because urethral and rectal doses can be kept at acceptable levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- N N Stone
- Department of Urology, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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17
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Nag S, Bice W, DeWyngaert K, Prestidge B, Stock R, Yu Y. The American Brachytherapy Society recommendations for permanent prostate brachytherapy postimplant dosimetric analysis. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2000; 46:221-30. [PMID: 10656396 DOI: 10.1016/s0360-3016(99)00351-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 317] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this report is to establish guidelines for postimplant dosimetric analysis of permanent prostate brachytherapy. METHODS Members of the American Brachytherapy Society (ABS) with expertise in prostate dosimetry evaluation performed a literature review and supplemented with their clinical experience formulated guidelines for performing and analyzing postimplant dosimetry of permanent prostate brachytherapy. RESULTS The ABS recommends that postimplant dosimetry should be performed on all patients undergoing permanent prostate brachytherapy for optimal patient care. At present, computed tomography (CT)-based dosimetry is recommended, based on availability cost and the ability to image the prostate as well as the seeds. Additional plane radiographs should be obtained to verify the seed count. Until the ideal postoperative interval for CT scanning has been determined, each center should perform dosimetric evaluation of prostate implants at a consistent postoperative interval. This interval should be reported. Isodose displays should be obtained at 50%, 80%, 90%, 100%, 150%, and 200% of the prescription dose and displayed on multiple cross-sectional images of the prostate. A dose-volume histogram (DVH) of the prostate should be performed and the D90 (dose to 90% of the prostate gland) reported by all centers. Additionally, the D80, D100, the fractional V80, V90, V100, V150 and V200 (i.e., the percentage of prostate volume receiving 80%, 90%, 100%, 150%, and 200% of the prescribed dose, respectively), the rectal, and urethral doses should be reported and ultimately correlated with clinical outcome in the research environment. On-line real-time dosimetry, the effects of dose heterogeneity, and the effects of tissue heterogeneity need further investigation. CONCLUSION It is essential that postimplant dosimetry should be performed on all patients undergoing permanent prostate brachytherapy. Guidelines were established for the performance and analysis of such dosimetry.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Nag
- Clinical Research Committee, The American Brachytherapy Society, Oak Brook, IL, USA.
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18
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McLaughlin PW, Narayana V, Fields MT, Dworzanin ME, Winfield RJ, Roberson PL. Permanent implantation of 125I sources in the prostate: radical limits of simplicity. Radiology 1999; 213:839-44. [PMID: 10580964 DOI: 10.1148/radiology.213.3.r99nv28839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the effect of reducing the number of sources per implantation on the dose coverage of the prostate volume. MATERIALS AND METHODS Idealized source distributions were planned for four, eight, 16, 24, 32, and 48 sources. The peripheral loading technique was used to plan a uniform, conformal dose distribution to the target volume, which was the prostate volume as visualized at ultrasonography. Source-placement error was estimated by using measured error magnitudes and was expressed with systematic and random components. The relative sensitivities of the plans to the source-placement error were studied. RESULTS Idealized planned target coverage can be adequately achieved with comparable dose distributions with eight or more sources. The sensitivity to source-placement error is comparable for plans with 16 or more sources. CONCLUSION It is theoretically possible to radically simplify implantation without compromising target coverage or error tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- P W McLaughlin
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, USA
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Yu Y, Anderson LL, Li Z, Mellenberg DE, Nath R, Schell MC, Waterman FM, Wu A, Blasko JC. Permanent prostate seed implant brachytherapy: report of the American Association of Physicists in Medicine Task Group No. 64. Med Phys 1999; 26:2054-76. [PMID: 10535622 DOI: 10.1118/1.598721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 263] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
There is now considerable evidence to suggest that technical innovations, 3D image-based planning, template guidance, computerized dosimetry analysis and improved quality assurance practice have converged in synergy in modern prostate brachytherapy, which promise to lead to increased tumor control and decreased toxicity. A substantial part of the medical physicist's contribution to this multi-disciplinary modality has a direct impact on the factors that may singly or jointly determine the treatment outcome. It is therefore of paramount importance for the medical physics community to establish a uniform standard of practice for prostate brachytherapy physics, so that the therapeutic potential of the modality can be maximally and consistently realized in the wider healthcare community. A recent survey in the U.S. for prostate brachytherapy revealed alarming variance in the pattern of practice in physics and dosimetry, particularly in regard to dose calculation, seed assay and time/method of postimplant imaging. Because of the large number of start-up programs at this time, it is essential that the roles and responsibilities of the medical physicist be clearly defined, consistent with the pivotal nature of the clinical physics component in assuring the ultimate success of prostate brachytherapy. It was against this background that the Radiation Therapy Committee of the American Association of Physicists in Medicine formed Task Group No. 64, which was charged (1) to review the current techniques in prostate seed implant brachytherapy, (2) to summarize the present knowledge in treatment planning, dose specification and reporting, (3) to recommend practical guidelines for the clinical medical physicist, and (4) to identify issues for future investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Yu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Rochester, New York 14642, USA.
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Taschereau R, Roy J, Pouliot J. Monte Carlo simulations of prostate implants to improve dosimetry and compare planning methods. Med Phys 1999; 26:1952-9. [PMID: 10505885 DOI: 10.1118/1.598700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study is to use Monte Carlo simulations to assess the sensitivity of implant planning methods to seed misplacement. A model of seed misplacement is first developed. It is based upon data gathered after a study on source migration performed on 30 patients treated with I-125 transperineal implants. It consists of applying elementary transformations to every needle in a loading plan to produce a distorted implant mimicking the effect of migration. After being validated, the model has been used to tune the inverse planning system in use at our institution. The new planning system is now used clinically and actual results are compared with those predicted by simulations. Simulations were also used to compare our planning method with others. The new planning system increased the average postimplant dose-volume histogram DVH(160) from 82% to 93%, which is the value predicted by the simulations. This improvement is due to an increased dose margin providing coverage even in the presence of migration. At the same time, the dose to the urethra remained at 267 Gy because of a special protection feature included in the planning system. Some other implant planning methods are not as robust [average DVH(160) ranging from 76% to 85%] and deliver a higher dose to the urethra (close to 400 Gy). To conclude, a simple model of source migration can provide realistic feedback about sensitivity to migration of planning methods. It allowed a significant clinical improvement at our institution. The improved inverse planning system provided better coverage with fewer seeds (but equal total activity) than a manual method. Hence, a properly tuned inverse planning system has the potential to deliver the less sensitive plans. The model also helped demonstrate that planning methods are not equally robust to migration and that they should not be evaluated solely by the plans they produce, but also by their clinical (or simulated) results.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Taschereau
- Radiation Oncology Service, Centre de Recherche en Cancérologie de l'Université Laval, Canada.
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Vicini FA, Kini VR, Edmundson G, Gustafson GS, Stromberg J, Martinez A. A comprehensive review of prostate cancer brachytherapy: defining an optimal technique. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 1999; 44:483-91. [PMID: 10348275 DOI: 10.1016/s0360-3016(99)00047-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE A comprehensive review of prostate cancer brachytherapy literature was performed to determine if an optimal method of implantation could be identified, and to compare and contrast techniques currently in use. METHODS AND MATERIALS A MEDLINE search was conducted to obtain all articles in the English language on prostate cancer brachytherapy from 1985 through 1998. Articles were reviewed and grouped to determine the primary technique of implantation, the method or philosophy of source placement and/or dose specification, the technique to evaluate implant quality, overall treatment results (based upon pretreatment prostate specific antigen, (PSA), and biochemical control) and clinical, pathological or biochemical outcome based upon implant quality. RESULTS A total of 178 articles were identified in the MEDLINE database. Of these, 53 studies discussed evaluable techniques of implantation and were used for this analysis. Of these studies, 52% used preoperative ultrasound to determine the target volume to be implanted, 16% used preoperative computerized tomography (CT) scans, and 18% placed seeds with an open surgical technique. An additional 11% of studies placed seeds or needles under ultrasound guidance using interactive real-time dosimetry. The number and distribution of radioactive sources to be implanted or the method used to prescribe dose was determined using nomograms in 27% of studies, a least squares optimization technique in 11%, or not stated in 35%. In the remaining 26%, sources were described as either uniformly, differentially, or peripherally placed in the gland. To evaluate implant quality, 28% of studies calculated some type of dose-volume histogram, 21% calculated the matched peripheral dose, 19% the minimum peripheral dose, 14% used some type of CT-based qualitative review and, in 18% of studies, no implant quality evaluation was mentioned. Six studies correlated outcome with implant dose. One study showed an association of implant dose with the achievement of a PSA nadir < or = 0.5. Two studies showed an improvement in biochemical control with a D90 (dose to 90% of the prostate volume) of 120 to 140 Gy or higher, and 2 additional studies found an association of clinical outcome with implant dose. One study correlated implant quality with biopsy results. Of the articles, 33 discussed evaluable treatment results, but only 16 reported findings based upon pretreatment PSA and biochemical control. Three- to 5-year biochemical control rates ranged from 48% to 100% for pretreatment PSAs < or = 4, 55% to 90% for PSAs between 4 and 10, 30% to 89% for PSAs > 10, < or = 20 and < 10% to 100% for PSAs > 20. Due to substantial differences in patient selection criteria (e.g., median Gleason score, clinical stage, pretreatment PSA), number of patients treated, median follow-up, definitions of biochemical control, and time points for analysis, no single technique consistently produced superior results. CONCLUSIONS Our comprehensive review of prostate cancer brachytherapy literature failed to identify an optimal treatment approach when studies were analyzed for treatment outcome based upon pretreatment PSA and biochemical control. Although several well-designed studies showed an improvement in outcome with total dose or implant quality, the numerous techniques for implantation and the varied and inconsistent methods to specify dose or evaluate implant quality suggest that standardized protocols should be developed to objectively evaluate this treatment approach. These protocols have recently been suggested and, when implemented, should significantly improve the reporting of treatment data and, ultimately, the efficacy of prostate brachytherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- F A Vicini
- Department of Radiation Oncology, William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, MI 48073, USA
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