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A simple method to stabilize the prostate during transperineal prostate brachytherapy
1Department of Radiology, Center for Cancer Care, University Community Hospital, Tampa, FL 33613, USA.
Summary
This study introduces a simple method to reduce prostate motion during brachytherapy using two needles. This technique significantly limits prostate movement, improving implant accuracy.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Radiation Oncology
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Prostate motion during brachytherapy can reduce treatment accuracy.
- Minimizing intra-fractional motion is crucial for effective radiation delivery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a simple and effective method for limiting prostate motion during brachytherapy.
- To improve the precision of radioactive seed placement in the prostate.
Main Methods:
- Transperineal insertion of two 18-gauge stainless-steel needles into the prostate.
- Needles are inserted obliquely under finger and fluoroscopic guidance.
- Needles remain in place throughout the brachytherapy implant procedure.
Main Results:
- Maximum lateral prostate displacement reduced from approximately 1 cm to 0.2 mm.
- Craniocaudal prostate motion was virtually eliminated.
- Significant improvement in prostate immobilization achieved.
Conclusions:
- The described method is simple to perform.
- No specialized equipment is required for this prostate motion reduction technique.
- This approach offers a practical solution for enhancing brachytherapy accuracy.