A Commissioning Report on the Magnetic ResonanceCompatible Geneva Brachytherapy Applicator
10.14316/pmp.2024.35.4.116
- Author:
Yoonsuk HUH
1
;
Hyojun PARK
;
Jin JEGAL
;
Inbum LEE
;
Jaeman SON
;
Seonghee KANG
;
Chang Heon CHOI
;
Jung-in KIM
;
Hyeongmin JIN
Author Information
1. Department of Radiation Oncology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea
- Publication Type:Original Article
- From:
Progress in Medical Physics
2024;35(4):116-124
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Purpose:Brachytherapy is essential for treating gynecological cancers as it offers precise radiation delivery to tumors while minimizing radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. The Geneva applicator, introduced in 2020 as a replacement for older models like the Utrecht applicator, enhances MRI-based brachytherapy with improved imaging capabilities and more accurate applicator placement. In 2021, updates to non-reimbursement policies in Korea for MRI-based 3D brachytherapy planning further promoted the adoption of advanced techniques such as the Geneva applicator. This study aims to commission the Geneva applicator, focusing on wall thickness, dummy marker positions, and source dwell positions to ensure accurate dose delivery and safety.
Methods:The commissioning process involved measuring wall thickness in both the longitudinal and transverse directions for the tandem and lunar-shaped ovoid tubes and comparing thesemeasurements with the manufacturer’s specifications. Dummy marker positions were verifiedusing CT imaging, with a focus on alignment tolerances of ±1 mm. Source dwell positions were planned using the Oncentra treatment planning system, with measurements taken using EBT4 film and analyzed with RIT software.
Results:Wall thickness measurements and dummy marker positions were within the specified tolerance ranges, confirming their accuracy. The source dwell positions, measured and analyzedthrough multiple tests, were all within the ±1 mm tolerance, ensuring the applicator’s reliability.
Conclusions:The Geneva applicator met all standards for safe and effective use in brachytherapy.The use of a 3D-printed holder was crucial for precise alignment and measurement. With updated reimbursement policies in Korea for MRI-based brachytherapy, the Geneva applicator is expected to significantly impact the future of advanced brachytherapy treatments and research.
