Modern Imaging Techniques and Their Role in Contact Radiation Therapy (Brachytherapy) Planning

Abstract

The paper considers an algorithm for the diagnostic study of patients with cancer of different localization, the possibility and feasibility of involving imaging techniques in radiation therapy and brachytherapy (BT) planning. The most widely used ultrasound in BT planning does not exclude a subjective assessment of the boundaries of the tumor and organs at risk, as well as the inaccuracies caused by endostatic devices. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides a high level of achievement of the criteria necessary for BT planning, but it has financial constraints and the need for individual selection of research conditions. Computed tomography (CT) is the most effective technique for visualizing the tumor, endostatic devices, and organs at risk for BT 3D planning. The involvement of MRI and positron emission tomography with CT in BT planning is a promising area that requires equipping with a mathematical tool for double and triple contouring of the tumor and organs at risk and for defining protection priorities. The prescribed and used focal dose should be controlled by direct dosimetry methods to ensure quality assurance.