Focus has been given to imaging and high-precision irradiation devices for preclinical tumor model development in recent years. Image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) including innovative treatment planning techniques comparable to patient treatment can be achieved in a translational context.
In their paper “MRI-based high-precision irradiation in an orthotopic pancreatic tumor mouse model: A treatment planning study” Dobiasch S, Kampfer S, Habermehl D, Duma MN, Felix K, Strauss A, Schilling D, Wilkens JJ, Combs SE aim to evaluate magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography (MRI/CT)-based treatment planning with different treatment techniques for high-precision radiation therapy.
In an orthotopic pancreatic cancer model, MRI/CT-based radiation treatment planning was established. Three irradiation techniques (rotational, 3D multifield, stereotactic) were performed with the SARRP system (Small Animal Radiation Research Platform). Dose distributions in gross tumor volume (GTV) and organs at risk (OAR) were analysed for each treatment setting.
They found that MRI with high soft tissue contrast improved imaging of GTV and OARs. Therefore MRI-based treatment planning enables precise contouring of GTV and OARs, thus, providing a perfect basis for an improved dose distribution and coverage of the GTV for all advanced radiation techniques.
They concluded that MRI/CT-based treatment planning for high-precision IGRT using different techniques was established in an orthotopic pancreatic tumor model. Advanced radiation techniques allow considering perfect coverage of GTV and sparing of OARs in the preclinical setting and reflect clinical treatment plans of pancreatic cancer patients.
This Xstrahl In Action was adapted from a article found on a National Library of Medicine website.
