Publications by authors named "Robin Straathof"
Patient-tailored intracavitary/interstitial (IC/IS) brachytherapy (BT) applicators may increase dose conformity in cervical cancer patients. Current configuration planning methods in these custom applicators rely on manual specification or a small set of (straight) needles. This work introduces and validates a two-stage approach for establishing channel configurations in the 3D printed patient-tailored ARCHITECT applicator.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFBackground And Purpose: Although MRI-based image guided adaptive brachytherapy (IGABT) for locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC) has resulted in favorable outcomes, it can be logistically complex and time consuming compared to 2D image-based brachytherapy, and both physically and emotionally intensive for patients. This prospective study aims to perform time-action and patient experience analyses during IGABT to guide further improvements.
Materials And Methods: LACC patients treated with IGABT were included for the time-action (56 patients) and patient experience (29 patients) analyses.
Article Synopsis
- The study focuses on creating computer models to simulate the behavior of brachytherapy (BT) instruments, specifically their source positions and needle insertion forces in curved applicators for cervical cancer treatment.
- The methodology involves using finite element analysis to compare simulated source paths with manufacturer measurements, showing small discrepancies that are acceptable for dosimetry.
- The results indicate that the models are accurate, which can help in designing better applicators that enhance the effectiveness of BT treatments.