[A simple method for transposing MRI information to simulation films. Technical note].
BACKGROUND
The use of MRI information in the treatment planning process is still expensive and time consuming. Electro-optical devices or specially designed post-processing software in here the risk of picture distortion.


METHODS
Between June 1998 and June 1999 in 48 patients with brain tumors and 11 patients with carcinoma of the prostate CT treatment planning and MRI were performed with identical patient positioning using the same devices as in the simulation. The transposition of organ and tumor volumes between MRI and simulation film takes place by overlying both on the brightening screen by using a grid. MRI and simulation films must be produced using an identical magnification factor.


RESULTS
For 9 patients with brain tumors and 2 patients with a carcinoma of the prostate the transposition of MRI information on the simulation films showed the necessity of a modification of the shielding or the treatment portals.


CONCLUSIONS
The simple method of direct transposition of MRI structures into simulation films allows to accomplish a verification of the portals and conformation which result of the treatment planning process. Moreover an individualized shielding can also directly be realized.
Wagner
W
W
Paracelsus-Strahlenklinik, Osnabrück.
Ostkamp
K
K
Niewöhner-Desbordes
U
U
D001932:Brain Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D003198:Computer Simulation; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D055096:Optical Devices; D011471:Prostatic Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000532:radiotherapy; D011880:Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted; D012984:Software; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed