Prostate MRI in Stereotactic Body Radiation Treatment Planning and Delivery for Localized Prostate Cancer. July-August 2022-RG210114-2022-Wang-SG

RG210114-2022-Wang-SG

Pdf Summary

This study guide for Test 21-0114 provides key information on the use of prostate MRI in stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for localized prostate cancer. To earn SA-CME credit, you must complete the corresponding online test at rsna.org.<br /><br />SBRT is defined as an external-beam radiation therapy method that delivers a high dose of radiation to an extracranial target (option c). This technique is crucial in treating localized prostate cancer by focusing radiation more precisely to minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissue.<br /><br />The most accurate imaging modality for delineating the extent of a primary prostate tumor is T2-weighted (T2W) MRI (option d). This method is preferred over others for its superior contrast resolution, which enhances the visual distinction between the prostate lesion and surrounding tissues.<br /><br />In prostate SBRT, fiducial markers are utilized to facilitate precise targeting and delivery of radiation therapy to the tumor site (option a). This precision is vital in reducing the likelihood of affecting healthy tissues and improving treatment outcomes.<br /><br />The implementation of MRI in treatment planning reduces the prostate clinical target volume (CTV) by 32%–40% compared to using CT only (option d). This reduction is significant as it allows for more accurate targeting of the tumor, potentially improving effectiveness and reducing side effects.<br /><br />Identifying the membranous urethra during treatment planning is important because it is a common location for radiation therapy–induced strictures (option b). Proper identification helps in sparing this structure from high radiation doses, thereby reducing the risk of post-therapy complications. <br /><br />This guide underscores the importance of advanced imaging techniques and careful planning in enhancing the precision and safety of SBRT in prostate cancer treatment.

Keywords

prostate MRI

stereotactic body radiation therapy

SBRT

localized prostate cancer

T2-weighted MRI

fiducial markers

radiation therapy

treatment planning

membranous urethra

clinical target volume