Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 13, 2026
Proton Therapy Delivery and Its Clinical Application in Select Solid Tumor Malignancies
Published on: February 6, 2019
Is there a role for endorectal balloons in prostate radiotherapy? A systematic review
Robert Jan Smeenk1, Bin S Teh, E Brian Butler
1Department of Radiation Oncology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands. r.smeenk@rther.umcn.nl
Background And Purpose:
Endorectal balloons (ERBs) are being used in prostate radiotherapy for prostate immobilization and rectal wall (Rwall) sparing. Some of their aspects, however, have been questioned, like patient's tolerance and their value in modern high-precision radiotherapy. This paper gives an overview of published data concerning ERB application in prostate radiotherapy.
Materials And Methods:
Systematic literature review based on PubMed/MEDLINE database searches.
Results:
Overall, ERBs are tolerated well, although patients with pre-existing anorectal disease have an increased risk of developing ERB-related toxicity. Planning studies show reduced Rwall and anal wall (Awall) doses with ERB application. Clinical data, however, are scarce, as only one study shows reduced late rectal damage. There is no consensus about the immobilizing properties of ERBs and it is recommended to use additional set-up and correction protocols, especially because there are potential pitfalls.
Conclusion:
ERBs seem well-tolerated and in planning studies reduce anorectal wall doses. This may lead to reduced anorectal toxicity, although clinical studies are warranted to confirm this hypothesis and to further investigate the immobilizing properties of ERBs, preferably in combination with advanced techniques for position verification.
