Intra-Fraction IGRT and Dynamic Dosimetry Phantom
Background
It is hypothesised that dynamic tracking of a tumour volume during radiotherapy can contribute to a reduction in treatment margins.
Aims
- To create a real-time 4D (3D plus time) ultrasound system that can dynamically track a tumour during actual delivery of therapy.
- The successful tracking of a volume will provide a permanent record of position at any time during therapy or even serve as an interrupt.
- Concept to be validated using;
- a Robotic Dynamic Dosimetry Phantom
- High precision simulated-tissue movement
- 3D gel dosimetry
- May be transported to a hospital Linac - thereby facilitating assessment of dosimetric consequences.
The research project will consider the application of novel quantitative ultrasound imaging to the clinical specialty of radiation oncology. The long term aim is to dynamically monitor tumour movement during external beam radiotherapy delivery using a robotically-controlled ultrasound system; if the tumour moves outside the radiation beam, the therapy delivery may be interrupted or steered. The project will develop the ultrasound system and perform scientific validation via a novel robotically-controlled Dynamic Dosimetry Phantom. Initial clinical validation will assess the system´s ability to monitor normal prostate motion in healthy subjects.
- Principal Investigators: Prof CM Langton
- Collaborators: Dr Jarad Martin (ROQ), Dr Brendan Healy(ROQ), Mr Mark Middleton (ROQ),
Dr A Fielding, Dr J Trapp
- Student: Mr Christopher Poole
- Funding: QUT, Cancer Council Australia
Current Status
- Design and development of the Dynamic Dosimetry Phantom
- Integration of robot and ultrasound systems plus image processing
- Development of 3D Gel Dosimeters - Jamie Trapp and Shadi Khoei
