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A filter for breast imaging on a radiotherapy X-ray simulator
J F Utting1, E M Donovan, B Suter
1Joint Department of Physics, Royal Marsden NHS Trust, Sutton, Surrey, UK.
The British Journal of Radiology
|October 12, 2000
Summary
A novel filter improves breast imaging during radiotherapy planning. This external filter enhances visualization of breast tissue margins without altering chest wall imaging, aiding treatment verification.
Area of Science:
- Medical Physics
- Radiotherapy
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Simulator radiographs for breast radiotherapy planning often have poor breast tissue margin visualization.
- Current exposure parameters prioritize chest wall visibility over breast tissue detail.
- This impacts the accuracy of using simulator images for treatment verification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To enhance breast images obtained during simulation for radiotherapy planning.
- To achieve improved breast tissue margin visualization without altering chest wall imaging.
- To facilitate more accurate treatment verification using simulator radiographs.
Main Methods:
- Development and implementation of an external filter for treatment simulator radiographs.
- The filter is constructed from stainless steel coated with tin.
- Filter design selectively covers the anterior field to preserve chest wall imaging.
Main Results:
- Radiographs taken with the filter demonstrated satisfactory breast imaging.
- Both clinicians and radiographers found the enhanced images acceptable.
- The filter has been integrated into routine clinical practice for breast and chest wall simulation.
Conclusions:
- The external filter effectively improves breast tissue margin visualization in simulator radiographs.
- This technique enhances the utility of simulator images for radiotherapy treatment verification.
- The filter is a practical and clinically accepted tool for breast radiotherapy planning.