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Computed tomography determination of prostate volume and maximum dimensions: a study of interobserver variability
Eric Berthelet1, Mitchell C C Liu, Alex Agranovich
1Department of Radiation Oncology, British Columbia Cancer Agency, Fraser Valley Centre, 13750 96th Avenue, Surrey, BC, Canada.
Summary
Computed tomography (CT) for prostate brachytherapy shows reproducible geometrical center coordinates among observers. Prostate volume determination is more variable, with specific trends observed between individual radiation oncologists.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
- Radiation Oncology
Background:
- Accurate prostate imaging is crucial for effective brachytherapy.
- Computed tomography (CT) is a common modality for prostate imaging.
- Understanding interobserver variability in CT-based measurements is essential for treatment consistency.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the reproducibility of prostate volume, maximum dimensions, and geometrical center coordinates using CT.
- To identify patterns of interobserver variability in these measurements among radiation oncologists.
Main Methods:
- Forty patients eligible for prostate brachytherapy underwent CT scanning.
- Three radiation oncologists determined prostate volumes and measured geometrical center coordinates and maximum dimensions (AP, Lat, Long axes).
- Statistical analysis included calculating means, standard deviations (SDs), and average variations from the mean for 840 measurements.
Main Results:
- Geometrical center coordinate determination showed acceptable interobserver variability (SDs: 0.78-1.72 mm).
- Maximum organ dimension measurements had higher variability (SDs: 2.54-4.43 mm), particularly in the longitudinal axis.
- Prostate volume determination exhibited greater variability, with distinct trends observed in individual observers' measurements compared to the group mean.
Conclusions:
- Prostate geometrical center coordinates are reproducible among radiation oncologists using CT.
- The longitudinal axis measurement and prostate volume determination show the most significant interobserver variability.
- Consistent trends in volume estimation were noted among observers, suggesting potential for standardization.