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Australian survey on current practices for breast radiotherapy
Kylie L Dundas1,2,3, Elise M Pogson1,2,3, Vikneswary Batumalai2,4
1Centre for Medical Radiation Physics, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia.
Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Oncology
|August 14, 2015
Summary
Australian breast radiotherapy practices show standard supine tangential beam whole breast irradiation, with increasing exploration of intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and prone positioning. However, significant variations exist in dose reporting and technique adoption.
Area of Science:
- Radiation Oncology
- Medical Physics
- Clinical Oncology
Background:
- Last detailed Australian breast radiotherapy survey was in 2002.
- International surveys conducted in 2008/2009 and 2009.
- Evolving radiotherapy techniques and increasing use of intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT).
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine current breast radiotherapy practices across Australia.
- To identify variations and trends in Australian breast cancer radiotherapy.
Main Methods:
- An online survey was conducted.
- 50 of 69 Australian radiation therapy treatment centres participated.
Main Results:
- Supine tangential beam whole breast irradiation is the standard.
- Increasing exploration of prone positioning and IMRT.
- Wide variation in organ at risk dose benchmarks, prescribed dose regimens, and post-mastectomy bolus practices.
- Lower uptake of partial breast irradiation, prone positioning, simultaneous integrated boost, and breath hold techniques compared to international literature.
Conclusions:
- This survey offers insight into current Australian breast cancer radiotherapy practices.
- Identified variations suggest areas for further review and research.
- Ensuring Australian patients receive optimal care based on current evidence is paramount.
