A facility for magnetic resonance-guided radiation therapy
David A Jaffray1, Marco C Carlone2, Michael F Milosevic2
1Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Techna Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
A new magnetic resonance-guided radiotherapy (MRgRT) facility integrates advanced imaging and treatment systems. This innovation enhances precision in radiation therapy planning and delivery for improved patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Medical Physics
- Radiation Oncology
- Radiotherapy Technology
Background:
- Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is crucial for radiotherapy (RT) treatment planning across various diseases.
- Enhanced integration of MR imaging into RT workflows can improve dose accuracy and incorporate advanced imaging data.
- Current RT processes can benefit from real-time imaging for adaptive planning and response assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce a dedicated MR-guided radiotherapy (MRgRT) facility designed for integrated treatment.
- To enable online MR-based treatment guidance, adaptive replanning, and response monitoring.
- To maintain the clinical utility of existing radiotherapy delivery systems within the new facility.
Main Methods:
- Integration of a superconducting MR scanner with a linear accelerator and a high-dose rate brachytherapy afterloader.
- Establishment of a dedicated MRgRT suite for coordinated system operation.
- Implementation of MR-based online treatment guidance protocols.
Main Results:
- The facility successfully integrates advanced MR imaging with RT delivery systems.
- The system supports online treatment guidance, adaptive replanning, and response monitoring.
- Clinical functionality of existing delivery systems is preserved.
Conclusions:
- The dedicated MRgRT facility provides a platform for safe and efficient MR-guided radiation therapy.
- This integrated approach enhances the potential for precise dose delivery and personalized cancer treatment.
- MRgRT represents a significant advancement in radiotherapy, improving accuracy and adaptability.
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