UK & Ireland Prostate Brachytherapy Practice Survey 2014-2016
Gemma Corey1, A B Mohamed Yoosuf2, Geraldine Workman2
1Department of Clinical Oncology, Northern Ireland Cancer Centre, Belfast City Hospital.
Journal of Contemporary Brachytherapy
|July 25, 2018
Summary
UK and Ireland prostate brachytherapy centers show extensive experience, but a decline in low-dose-rate (LDR) brachytherapy cases is observed. Maintaining case numbers and adhering to quality guidelines are crucial for optimal outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiation Oncology
- Medical Physics
Background:
- Prostate brachytherapy is a key treatment modality for localized prostate cancer.
- Audits are essential for monitoring practice standards and outcomes.
- Previous audits have established benchmarks for prostate brachytherapy in the UK and Ireland.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively document current prostate brachytherapy practices across the UK and Ireland.
- To compare contemporary practices with historical audit data.
- To identify trends and potential areas for quality improvement in prostate brachytherapy.
Main Methods:
- An online survey was distributed to participants of the UK & Ireland Prostate Brachytherapy Conference.
- The survey comprised 63 questions covering center and clinician experience, patient selection, scheduling, and treatment techniques (LDR and HDR).
- Data were collated and analyzed using descriptive statistics.
Main Results:
- Eighteen centers responded, with most performing either low-dose-rate (LDR) or high-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy.
- A significant proportion of centers possess extensive experience (>10 years for LDR, >5 years for HDR).
- A decline in LDR monotherapy cases was reported by some centers, while HDR procedures have increased.
- Patient selection criteria are relatively uniform, and LDR dosimetry generally adheres to quality guidelines.
Conclusions:
- Prostate brachytherapy in the UK and Ireland is supported by experienced centers and clinicians.
- A notable decrease in LDR brachytherapy case numbers warrants attention.
- Sustaining high-quality outcomes necessitates maintaining adequate case volumes and continuous adherence to established quality guidelines.
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