Intensity modulation techniques for improvement of normal tissue tolerance

Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy in the Treatment of Head and Neck Cancer Involving the Base of the Skull

Tumors invading the skull base pose a difficult problem for the treating radiation oncologist. When confronting these highly complex tumors where the gross tumor abuts the optic apparatus or brain stem, the physician often has to make a difficult choice regarding coverage of the tumor, i.e., underdosing portions of the tumor to protect the critical normal tissues versus accepting the risk of late complication while ensuring full coverage of the tumor. This situation is often encountered in advanced T4 disease originating either in the paranasal sinuses or the nasopharynx. In this case report, the author presents a case in which difficult decisions were made when treating a complex, locally advanced, T4 nasopharyngeal cancer that invaded the skull base.

Evaluation of the Sinmed Mastercouch® as replacement for a standard couch

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Introducing into practice a new carbon-fibre couch necessitates its evaluation with regard to the present clinical situation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, a geometric and dosimetric evaluation has been made for the Sinmed Mastercouch as a replacement for the Elekta C-arm couch with Mylar-tennis racket combination. Geometrically, feasible gantry angles with regard to collision and beam intersection were discriminated as function of isocentric table rotation for 10 treatment isocentres. Dosimetrically, the build-up distortion and attenuation by the aforementioned tabletops and a carbon-fibre tabletop of an Elekta Precise simulator was measured. Finally, the clinical implications of these influences were assessed for a 3-field prostate treatment in three configurations: Mastercouch, C-arm couch and no-intersection situation.

RESULTS

With regard to collision, the largest advantages are observed for the Mastercouch with the Omega-shaped treatment module compared to the C-arm couch for isocentres located in the upper part of the body, thanks to its shape and the absence of any metal. Dosimetrically, one has to take into account the build-up loss and attenuation by beam intersection with Mastercouch and the carbon-fibre edges of the tennis racket (C-arm couch). The clinical relevance of these dosimetric aspects depends on the dose delivered by the compromised beams.