A 3D-Printable, Low-Cost Obturator for Less Invasive Gynecologic Brachytherapy.

Area of Science:

• Medical Devices
• Radiation Oncology
• Gynecologic Oncology

Background:

• Interstitial brachytherapy (ISBT) is crucial for treating gynecologic cancers.
• Current ISBT methods can lead to significant patient morbidity, including vaginal laceration and organ injury.
• Access to advanced radiation treatment is limited in low-resource settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design, develop, and evaluate a cost-effective applicator for ISBT.
• To minimize patient morbidity associated with gynecologic cancer radiation therapy.
• To facilitate access to curative radiation treatment in low-resource settings.

Main Methods:

• Computer-aided design (CAD) and 3D printing were used to create a prototype applicator.
• The applicator features 44 slotted channels for guided needle insertion, avoiding transcutaneous techniques.
• Preclinical testing involved usability, needle stability, and arrangement assessments using a gelatin phantom.

Main Results:

• A promising prototype was successfully developed, addressing limitations of traditional perineum-based templates.
• The applicator design aims to cover bulky tumors, reduce tissue/organ injury, and enable treatment for women post-hysterectomy.
• Preclinical tests confirmed the applicator's efficacy in meeting its design objectives.

Conclusions:

• The developed applicator shows potential for facilitating ISBT with reduced morbidity, particularly in underserved regions.
• This innovation may improve current methods for treating advanced gynecologic cancers.
• Further clinical validation is required, but the applicator demonstrates significant promise for improving patient outcomes.