Treatment planning from MR images results in better and more efficient cancer treatment

Purpose and goal

There is a great need for improving radiotherapy and work out an individualized treatment. The tumor can be better depicted using an MR-scanner than CT, which also enables new methods for treatments. A new technique and product to facilitate this development and exlude the CT has been implemented in this project. In a study of 40 patients, the MriPlanner from Spectronic AB has been evaluated successfully.

Expected results and effects

This project has proven that radiotherapy can be performed using MR-scanner and without CT. As a result, there is a better and more efficient workflow. Images from one modality only, prevents registering, which can increase the spatial accuracy as well as the safety. This is the first study of its kind in Sweden. Patients with prostate cancer have been in focus. Similar technique can also be applied to radiotherapy of other organs such as brain and head/neck in the future. This technique are already introduced in other clinics in Sweden.

Planned approach and implementation

This a project which comprises a clinical study. It has been approved by ethical and radiation protection committees. It has been a challenge to change the traditional workflow from a combined CT/MR to MR-only. Since such a change involves all different staffs engaged in radiotherapy, it has been an extensive process to accomplish a change without obstacles within a limited period of time. The experiences from this process are valuables and can be of benefit in the future.