Implementation of intensity modulated radiotherapy for prostate cancer in a private radiotherapy service in Mexico

• Published in: Reports of practical oncology and radiotherapy Vol. 20; no. 1; pp. 66 - 71
• Main Authors: Poitevin-Chacón, María Adela, Reséndiz González, Gabriel, Alvarado Zermeño, Adriana, Flores Castro, Jesús Manuel, Flores Balcázar, Christian Haydée, Rosales Pérez, Samuel, Pérez Pastenes, Miguel Angel, Rodríguez Laguna, Alejandro, Vázquez Fernández, Patricio, Calvo Fernández, Alejandro, Bastida Ventura, Jorge
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Poland Elsevier Urban & Partner Sp. z.o.o 01-01-2015
• Subjects: Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Medicine; IMRT; Prostate cancer; Radiology; Radiotherapy; Technical Note; IMRT; Radiotherapy; Prostate cancer
• ISSN: 1507-1367; 2083-4640
• DOI: 10.1016/j.rpor.2014.06.002

Abstract Intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) allows physicians to deliver higher conformal doses to the tumour, while avoiding adjacent structures. As a result the probability of tumour control is higher and toxicity may be reduced. However, implementation of IMRT is highly complex and requires a rigorous quality assurance (QA) program both before and during treatment. The present article describes the process of implementing IMRT for localized prostate cancer in a radiation therapy department. In our experience, IMRT implementation requires careful planning due to the need to simultaneously implement specialized software, multifaceted QA programs, and training of the multidisciplinary team. Establishing standardized protocols and ensuring close collaboration between a multidisciplinary team is challenging but essential.