A new method to visualize and to spare the ureters during SBRT for oligo metastatic patients

Abstract

This article describes a ureter-sparing procedure used to treat lymph node metastases with SBRT. We delivered 35 Gy in 5 fractions of 7 Gy to patients with lesions located less than 7 mm from the ureters using a urography CT scan for planification. Two dosimetry plans were created, one using a CT scan urography-based contour and the other using the native phase. PTV coverage were not statistically different but this technique was able to significantly reduce median delivered Dmax to the ureters. These preliminary results demonstrate the feasibility of locating the ureters in a planning CT scan to protect them.

Keywords

• Stereotactic body radiation therapy
• Ureters
• Stenosis
• Delineation
• Constraints
• Urography CT scan