Journal Article

PreJuSER-22881

http://join2-wiki.gsi.de/foswiki/pub/Main/Artwork/join2_logo100x88.png Integration of FDG-PET/CT into external beam radiation therapy planning. Technical aspects and recommendations on methodological approaches

Thorwarth, D. ; Beyer, T. ; Boellaard, R. ; de Ruysscher, D. ; Grgic, A. ; Lee, J. A. ; Pietrzyk, U.FZJ* ; Sattler, B. ; Schaefer, A. ; van Elmpt, W. ; Vogel, W. ; Oyen, W. J. ; Nestle, U.

2012
Schattauer Stuttgart

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Please use a persistent id in citations: doi:10.3413/Nukmed-0455-11-12

Abstract: This work addresses the clinical adoption of FDG-PET/CT for image-guided radiation therapy planning (RTP). As such, important technical and methodological aspects of PET/CT-based RTP are reviewed and practical recommendations are given for routine patient management and clinical studies. First, recent developments in PET/CT hardware that are relevant to RTP are reviewed in the context of quality control and system calibration procedures that are mandatory for a reproducible adoption of PET/CT in RTP. Second, recommendations are provided on image acquisition and reconstruction to support the standardization of imaging protocols. A major prerequisite for routine RTP is a complete and secure data transfer to the actual planning system. Third, state-of-the-art tools for image fusion and co-registration are discussed briefly in the context of PET/CT imaging pre- and post-RTP. This includes a brief review of state-of-the-art image contouring algorithms relevant to PET/CT-guided RTP. Finally, practical aspects of clinical workflow and patient management, such as patient setup and requirements for staff training are emphasized. PET/CT-guided RTP mandates attention to logistical aspects, patient set-up and acquisition parameters as well as an in-depth appreciation of quality control and protocol standardization. CONCLUSION: Upon fulfilling the requirements to perform PET/CT for RTP, a new dimension of molecular imaging can be added to traditional morphological imaging. As a consequence, PET/CT imaging will support improved RTP and better patient care. This document serves as a guidance on practical and clinically validated instructions that are deemed useful to the staff involved in PET/CT-guided RTP.

Keyword(s): J ; Radiation therapy planning (auto) ; PET/CT (auto) ; FDG (auto)

Note: DT is supported by the European Social Fund and by the Ministry of Science, Research and the Arts Baden-Wurttemberg.

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Contributing Institute(s):

1. Physik der Medizinischen Bildgebung (INM-4)

Research Program(s):

1. Funktion und Dysfunktion des Nervensystems (FUEK409) (FUEK409)
2. 89573 - Neuroimaging (POF2-89573) (POF2-89573)

Appears in the scientific report 2012

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Database coverage:
; Current Contents - Clinical Medicine ; JCR ; SCOPUS ; Science Citation Index ; Science Citation Index Expanded ; Thomson Reuters Master Journal List ; Web of Science Core Collection

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