title: Intra-operative dosimetry of trans-rectal ultrasound guided I prostate implants using C-arm fluoroscopic images.
abstract: Permanent implantation of radioactive seeds is a viable and effective therapeutic option widely used today for early-stage prostate cancer. The implant technique has improved considerably during the recent years due to the use of image guidance; however, real-time dose distributions would allow potential cold spots to be assessed and additional seeds added. In this study, we investigate the use of a conventional C-arm fluoroscopy unit for image acquisition and evaluation of dose distribution immediately after the implant. The phantom study indicates that it is possible to obtain seed positions within ±2 mm. A pilot study carried out with three patients indicated that it is possible to obtain seed positions and calculate the dose distribution with C-arm fluoroscopy and about 95% of the seeds were reconstructed within ±2 mm. The results could be further improved with better digital imaging.
authors.affiliation: Department of Radiation Oncology, Christian Medical College & Hospital, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India.
authors.forename: Paul B
authors.initials: PB
authors.lastname: Ravindran
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Lewis
authors.forename: J Van
authors.initials: JV
authors.lastname: Dyk
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: D'Souza