Evaluating outcomes and toxicities for a newly implemented MRI-based brachytherapy program for cervical cancer

Gynecol Oncol. 2024 Apr:183:33-38. doi: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2024.03.003. Epub 2024 Mar 15.

Abstract

Objective: We report an updated analysis of the outcomes and toxicities of MRI-based brachytherapy for locally advanced cervical cancer from a U.S. academic center.

Methods: A retrospective review was performed on patients treated with MRI-based brachytherapy for cervical cancer. EBRT was standardly 45 Gy in 25 fractions with weekly cisplatin. MRI was performed with the brachytherapy applicator in situ. Dose specification was most commonly 7 Gy for 4 fractions with optimization aim of D90 HR-CTV EQD2 of 85-95 Gyα/β=10 Gy in 2 implants each delivering 2 fractions.

Results: Ninety-eight patients were included with median follow up of 24.5 months (IQR 11.9-39.8). Stage IIIA-IVB accounted for 31.6% of cases. Dosimetry results include median GTV D98 of 101.0 Gy (IQR 93.3-118.8) and HR-CTV D90 of 89 Gy (IQR 86.1-90.6). Median D2cc bladder, rectum, sigmoid, and bowel doses were 82.1 Gy (IQR 75.9-88.0), 65.9 Gy (IQR 59.6-71.2), 65.1 Gy (IQR 57.7-69.6), and 55 Gy (IQR 48.9-60.9). Chronic grade 3+ toxicities were seen in the bladder (8.2%), rectosigmoid (4.1%), and vagina (1.0%). Three-year LC, PFS, and OS were estimated to be 84%, 61.7%, and 76.1%, respectively.

Conclusion: MRI-based brachytherapy demonstrates excellent local control and acceptable rates of high-grade morbidity. These results are possible in our population with relatively large volume primary tumors and extensive local disease.

Keywords: Brachytherapy; Cervical cancer; MRI planning.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Brachytherapy* / adverse effects
  • Brachytherapy* / methods
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods
  • Middle Aged
  • Radiotherapy Dosage
  • Radiotherapy, Image-Guided / adverse effects
  • Radiotherapy, Image-Guided / methods
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms* / diagnostic imaging
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms* / radiotherapy