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Purpose: Tongue edema is a potential cause of treatment target underdosage in high-dose-rate interstitial brachytherapy (HDR-ISBT) of mobile tongue cancer. To prevent such edema-associated alteration of dosimetry, we developed a special silicon device. In this report we communicate our initial experience with two mobile tongue cancer patients whom we treated using this new device. Material and methods: The device consists of silicone tubes with a fixed width and scalable length depending on tongue size. These tubes are lined and fixed like a palisade, allowing the device to be used also as a template. The device is placed next to the lateral border of the tongue and on the floor of the mouth. In addition, a vinyl template can be placed on the dorsal tongue surface with both devices combined for implantation guidance. Between June and August 2012, two patients with locally confined tongue cancer were treated. Results: Between June and August 2012, two mobile tongue cancer patients classified as cT2N0M0 were treated with HDR-ISBT using the silicone device. They underwent ISBT as monotherapy with fractional doses of 6.0 Gy up to a total physical dose of 54.0 Gy. The D90 (CTV) values of both patients were 6.3 Gy and 6.6 Gy and the D2cc (mandible) values were 3.4 Gy and 2.6 Gy, respectively. At present, both patients remain without local disease recurrence at 60 and 56 months after ISBT, respectively. Conclusions: The described silicone device has the potential to prevent underdosage to the treatment target related to tongue edema. It has been shown to be safe and easy to implement.

Purpose The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of transitioning treatment planning techniques in high-dose-rate interstitial brachytherapy monotherapy for localized prostate cancer. Methods and Materials We compared 113 patients treated with initial two-dimensional treatment planning (2D: 74% received 54 Gy/nine fractions) to 240 patients treated with three-dimensional planning (3D: 70 CT image-guided 3D [CT-3D]: 84% 45.5 Gy/seven fractions and 170 MRI image-guided [MRI-3D]: 87% received 49 Gy/nine fractions). Results The actuarial 5-year biochemical failure-free survival rates for 2D and 3D planning were 88.4% and 95.1% (p = 0.0285 between 2D and 3D) (89.4% in CT-3D and 97.5% in MRI-3D), respectively; the rates for 2D and 3D planning were not available and 100% in the low-risk group (100% and 100%), 97.7% and 94.5% (p = 0.7626) (85.1% and 100%) in the intermediate-risk group, and 82.5% and 94.4% (p = 0.0507) (93.8% and 94.7%) for the high-risk group. Late gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3 was found in 13%, 4%, and 1% in 2D, whereas 8%, 2%, and 0% in 3D group (p = 0.0699), respectively. 3D decreased GI toxicity Grade 2 ≤ than 2D (19% and 10%, p = 0.0169). Late genitourinary toxicity Grade 1, Grade 2, and Grade 3 was 21%, 12%, and 3% for 2D and 32%, 18%, and 3% for 3D, respectively (p = 0.0217). Conclusions The 3D technique has the potential to reduce GI toxicity and improve biochemical control rate compared to 2D planning, whereas 3D resulted in increased mild genitourinary toxicity.

Background To compare the outcome of high-dose-rate interstitial brachytherapy (HDR-BT) monotherapy and low-dose-rate brachytherapy (LDR-BT) with or without external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) for localized prostate cancer. Methods and materials We compared 352 patients treated with HDR-BT as monotherapy (median follow-up time 84 months, NCCN risk classification; low: intermediate: high = 28:145:179) and 486 patients with LDR-BT with or without EBRT (90 months, 194:254:38). HDR-BT treated advanced disease with more hormonal therapy than LDR-BT. LDR-BT excluded patients with T3b–T4 tumor and initial PSA >50 ng/ml. Inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) involving propensity scores was used to reduce background selection bias. Results The actuarial 5-year biochemical failure-free survival rates (bNED) were 92.9% and 95.6% (p = 0.25) in the HDR-BT and LDR-BT groups, respectively, and it was 100% and 97.3% (p = 0.99) in the low-risk, 95.6% and 94.3% (p = 0.19) in the intermediate, 89.6% and 94.9% (p = 0.26) in the high-risk groups, and 93.1% and 94.9% (p = 0.98) in selected high-risk group excluding T3b-4 and initial PSA ≥50. IPTW correction also indicated no difference in bNED between LDR-BT and HDR-BT groups. LDR-BT showed a higher incidence of genitourinary (GU) toxicity grade ≥2 than that of HDR-BT in the acute phase and grade 1 toxicity in late phase. Acute GU toxicity grade ≥1 predicted late GU toxicity grade ≥2. External beam radiotherapy plus LDR-BT elevated GI toxicity than LDR-BT only group. Accumulated incidence of late grade ≥2 GU and GU toxicity was equivalent between HDR-BT and LDR-BT. No grade 4 or 5 toxicities were detected in either modality. Conclusion HDR-BT monotherapy showed an equivalent outcome to that of LDR-BT with or without EBRT for low-, intermediate- and selected high-risk patients. LDR-BT showed equivalent incidence of grade ≥2 late GI and GU toxicities and higher grade ≥2 acute GU toxicity as that of HDR-BT as a monotherapy.

BACKGROUND/AIM To compare five radiotherapy methods for prostate cancer. PATIENTS AND METHODS During 2005-2018, the data of patients with non-metastatic prostate cancer were retrospectively analysed. Patients were treated with high-dose-rate brachytherapy (HDR-BT); low-dose-rate brachytherapy (LDR-BT); or external-beam radiotherapy (EBRT), including conventionally fractionated radiotherapy (CFRT), moderate-hypofractionated radiotherapy (MHRT), and ultra-hypofractionated radiotherapy (UHRT). RESULTS In total, 496 patients (149, HDR-BT; 100, LDR-BT; 100, CFRT; 97, MHRT, and 50, UHRT) with a median follow-up of 4.3 years were enrolled. The incidence of grade ≥2 acute genitourinary toxicities was significantly lower with HDR-BT (p

Background Herein, we report the outcomes of 3 schedules of high-dose-rate interstitial brachytherapy (HDR-BT) monotherapy for localized prostate cancer. Patients and methods A total of 347 patients were treated with 45.5 Gy/7 fractions (n = 86; 45.5 Gy arm, median follow-up time 131 months), 49 Gy/7 fractions (n = 149; 49 Gy arm, 75.9 months), and 54 Gy/9 fractions (n = 112; 54 Gy arm, 68 months). Results The actuarial 5-year biochemical failure-free survival rates were 86.8%, 94.1%, and 88.5% (p = 0.2023) for the 45.5 Gy, 49 Gy, and 54 Gy arms in the high-risk group; 90.4%, 100%, and 97.4% (p = 0.0818) in the intermediate-risk group; and not available, 100%, and 100% in the low-risk group, respectively. The 5-year distant metastasis-free (and overall) survival rates were 94.4%, 98.2%, and 96.3% (100%, 92.8%, and 99.1%) for the 45.5 Gy, 49 Gy, and 54 Gy arms (p = 0.5454 and p = 0.0028), respectively. At 5 years, accumulated incidence of grade ≥2 gastrointestinal toxicity was 1.2%, 2.7%, and 3.4% for the 45.5 Gy, 49 Gy, and 54 Gy arms (p = 0.5605), respectively. For genitourinary toxicity, the 49 Gy arm showed a higher grade ≥2 toxicity of 20.5% than those observed in the 45.5 Gy (2.4%) and 54 Gy arms (10.1%). No grade 4 or 5 of either type of toxicity was detected. Conclusions The 3 schedules showed equivocal outcomes in each risk group, with different toxicity profiles. HDR-BT monotherapy with these schedules is an acceptable treatment option for localized prostate cancer.

We initiated the first multi-institutional prospective study of accelerated partial breast irradiation for early breast cancer in Japan. Our early clinical results showed that the treatment methods were technically reproducible between institutions and showed excellent disease control at a median follow-up of 26 months in our previous report. At present, total 46 patients from six institutions underwent the treatment regimen from October 2009 to December 2011, and the median follow-up time was 60 months (range, 57-67 months). In 46 patients, we experienced one patient who had rib fracture as a late complication. The dose-volume histogram (DVH) result of this patient was analyzed. The D0.01cc, D0.1cc, and D1cc values of the patient were 913, 817, and 664 cGy per fraction, respectively. These values were the highest values in 46 patients. The average D0.01cc, D0.1cc, and D1cc values of the other 45 patients were 546, 500, and 419, respectively, cGy per fraction. From this result, DVH values showing high-dose irradiated volume (D0.01cc, D0.1cc, and D1cc) seem to be a good predictive factor of rib fracture for accelerated partial breast irradiation. However, further investigation is necessary because of the small number of patients investigated.

The aim of the present study was to elucidate the effect of intratumoral abscess/necrosis (AN) on the outcome of patients with recurrent head and neck cancer (HNC) treated by stereotactic radiotherapy. The records of 67 patients treated with CyberKnife® in four institutes between August 2000 and July 2010 were reviewed. The frequency of AN appeared to be increased in younger postoperative patients with large ulcerative tumors. The AN+ group exhibited a better initial response rate compared with the AN− group (64 vs. 33%, respectively; P=0.04). The 1-year local control rate was 51 and 75% in the AN+ and AN− groups, respectively (P=0.01), while the respective 1-year overall survival rates were 53 and and 71% (P=0.0004). A total of 21 patients (31%) experienced grade ≥3 toxicities, and carotid blowout syndrome (CBOS) was found in 11 patients, resulting in 8 deaths. A significantly larger proportion of patients in the AN+ group developed CBOS (8/18; 44%) compared with the AN− group (3/49; 6%) (P=0.001). Therefore, AN may be an important prognostic factor for patients with recurrent HNC, as well as a predictor of lethal toxicity due to CBOS.

The influence of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) on other-cause of mortality (OCM) was investigated in patients with localized prostate cancer treated with modern high-dose radiotherapy. A retrospective review was conducted on 1125 patients with localized prostate cancer treated with high-dose radiotherapy, including image-guided, intensity-modulated radiotherapy or brachytherapy with a median follow-up of 80.7 months. Overall survival rate was no different between ADT (+) and ADT (&minus, ) group in high-, intermediate-, and low-risk groups. OCM was found in 71 patients, consisting of 4% (10/258) in the ADT (&minus, ) group and 7% (61/858) in the ADT (+) group (p = 0.0422). The 10-year OCM-free survival rate (OCMFS), if divided by the duration of ADT (ADT na&iuml, ve (ADT (&minus, )), ADT &lt, 2-year, and ADT &ge, 2-year groups), showed statistical significance, and was 90.7%, 88.2%, and 78.6% (p = 0.0039) for the ADT (&minus, ), ADT &lt, 2-year groups, respectively. In patients aged &ge, 75 years, 10-year OCMFS for ADT (&minus, 2-, and ADT &ge, 2-year groups was 93.5% (at 115.6 months), 85.6%, and 60.7% (p = 0.0189), respectively, whereas it was 90.7%, 89.9%, and 89.0% (p = 0.4716), respectively, in their younger counterparts. In localized prostate cancer patients, treatment with longer ADT for &ge, 2 years potentially increases the risk of OCM, especially in patients aged &ge, 75 years.

Purpose : We report our study on two patients to highlight the risk of underdosage of the clinical target volume (CTV) due to edema during high-dose-rate interstitial brachytherapy (HDR-ISBT) of mobile tongue cancer. Material and methods : To treat the lateral side of the CTV, flexible applicator tubes were implanted on the mouth floor. Two-dimensional planning was performed using X-ray images for Case 1, and three-dimensional (3D) planning was performed using computed tomography (CT) for Case 2. Prescribed doses for both cases were 54 Gy in nine fractions. Case reports : Case 1 was treated for cancer of the right lateral border of the tongue in 2005. Tongue edema occurred after implantation, and part of the lateral border of the tongue protruded between the applicator tubes. Acute mucosal reaction abated in the protruded area earlier than in the other parts of the CTV. In this case, the tumor recurred in this area 5 months after the treatment. Case 2 was treated for cancer of the left lateral border of the tongue. Because tongue edema occurred in this case also, plastic splints were inserted between the applicator tubes to push the edematous region into the irradiated area. The mucosal surface of the CTV was covered by the 70% isodose, and 100% isodose line for before and after splint insertion. Local control of the tumor was achieved 4 years after treatment. Discussion and conclusions : To ensure sufficient target coverage, 3D image-based planning using CT should be performed, followed by re-planning using repeated CT as needed. Also, the development of devices to prevent protrusion of the edematous tissue outside the target area will help to ensure the full dosing of CTV.

The purpose of this study was to examine the prognosis for patients with head and neck cancer after reirradiation using Cyberknife stereotactic body irradiation with special focus on mucosal ulceration. We conducted a retrospective multi-institutional review of 107 patients with previously irradiated head and neck cancer. The median follow-up time for all patients was 15 months, and the 2-year overall survival rate was 35%. Significant prognostic factors for overall survival were primary site (nasopharynx versus other sites), presence of ulceration, and PTV volume. Detailed analysis of ulceration showed a lower response rate (28%) in the ulceration (+) group than the ulceration (−) group (63%; P = 0.0045). The 2-year overall survival rates were 8% in the ulceration (+) group and 42.7% ( P = 0.0001) in the ulceration (−) group, respectively. We recorded 22 severe toxicities, including 11 patients with carotid blow-out syndrome (CBOS), which was fatal in 9 patients. CBOS occurred in 6 patients with ulceration (6/25; 24%), and 5 patients experienced CBOS without ulceration (5/82; 6%; P =0.027). In conclusion, ulceration is an important prognostic factor, not only for adverse events but also for survival after reirradiation using CyberKnife.

The aim of this paper is to compare outcomes between high-dose-rate interstitial brachytherapy (HDR-BT) monotherapy and image-guided intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IG-IMRT) for localized prostate cancer. We examined 353 HDR-BT and 270 IG-IMRT patients. To reduce background selection bias, we used the method of inverse probability treatment weighting (IPTW) with propensity scores. The actuarial five-year biochemical failure-free survival rates were 92.9% and 96.7% (p = 0.1847, p = 0.077 in IPTW) for HDR-BT and IG-IMRT, respectively, they were 100% and 95.8% (p = 0.286) for the low-risk group, 95.6% and 92% (p = 0.42) for the intermediate-risk group, 90.4% and 84.9% (p = 0.1059, p = 0.04 in IPTW) for the high-risk group, and 87.1% and 89.2% (p = 0.3816) for the very-high-risk group. In the assessment of accumulated incidences of grade &ge, 2 toxicity (Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 4.0) at five years, HDR-BT monotherapy showed higher genitourinary toxicity (11.9%) than IG-IMRT (3.3%) (p &lt, 0.0001). The gastrointestinal toxicity was equivalent for HDR-BT (2.3%) and IG-IMRT (5.5%) (p = 0.063). No Grade 4 or 5 toxicity was detected in either modality. HDR-BT showed higher genitourinary toxicity than IG-IMRT. HDR-BT and IG-IMRT showed equivalent outcomes in low-, intermediate-, and very-high-risk groups. For high-risk patients, HDR-BT showed potential to improve prostate-specific antigen (PSA) control rate compared to IG-IMRT.

A Japanese prospective multi-institutional feasibility study on accelerated partial breast irradiation using interstitial brachytherapy was performed. The first clinical results were reported with a median follow-up of 26 months. Forty-six female breast cancer patients with positive hormone receptors and tumors ≤3 cm, pN0M0, completed the protocol treatment. After breast-conserving surgery and histological confirmation of negative surgical margins and pN0, brachytherapy applicators were implanted either postoperatively (n = 45) or intraoperatively (n = 1). High-dose-rate brachytherapy of 36 Gy/6 fractions was delivered. All clinical data were prospectively collected using case report forms and the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events ver.3.0. At the median follow-up of 26 months, no breast cancer recurrence of any type was observed. Sequelae ≥G2 were dermatitis (G2, 7 %), fibrosis (G2, 11 %; G3, 4 %), fracture (G2, 2 %), pain (G2, 7 %; G3, 2 %), and soft tissue necrosis (G2, 6 %). Cosmetic outcomes evaluated by excellent/good scores were 100 % at pre-therapy (n = 46), 94 % at 12 months (n = 46), and 81 % at 24 months (n = 36), respectively. Disease control and sequelae were satisfactory due to the strict eligibility and protocol-defined treatment parameters. The cosmetic outcomes were comparable to those of previous Japanese breast-conserving therapy series.

We analyzed clinical data to evaluate the effectiveness of image-guided high-dose-rate interstitial brachytherapy (HDR-ISBT) for pelvic recurrence of uterine cancer.Between 2003 and 2011, 56 patients were treated with HDR-ISBT with or without external beam radiotherapy (EBRT). The median followup time was 33 months (range, 1-109 months). Pre-ISBT treatments included radical hysterectomy for 35 patients (Group A), radical hysterectomy with postoperative radiotherapy for 8 patients (Group B), and radical radiotherapy for 13 patients (Group C). We initiated MRI-assisted CT-based planning for the last 49 patients. The median ISBT single fraction dose was 6 Gy. The median total doses were 30 and 54 Gy with and without EBRT (range, 30-50 Gy) for Group A, respectively and 48 Gy without EBRT for Groups B and C.The 3-year local control (LC) rates were 85%, 75%, and 46% for Groups A, B, and C, respectively (p = 0.017). The 3-year LC rates were 84%, 73%, and 33% for clinical target volume at the time of HDR-ISBT of10, 10-29, and ≥30 cc, respectively (p = 0.005). The 3-year LC results tended to be higher for patients whose D100 (clinical target volume) was equal or higher than 67.1 Gy (p = 0.098). A total of 13 late complications of Grades 3-5 occurred in 11 patients (20%).Our image-guided HDR-ISBT for pelvic recurrence of uterine cancer provided good treatment outcomes. The treatment results for patients who underwent radical surgery with or without postoperative radiotherapy are better than those for patients who underwent radical radiotherapy.

The purpose of this study was to determine the outcomes and optimal practice patterns of definitive radiotherapy for primary vaginal cancer. Between 1993 and 2012, 49 patients were treated with definitive radiotherapy for primary vaginal cancer in three hospitals. Of these, 15 patients (31%) had clinically positive regional lymph node metastasis. A total of 34 patients (70%) received external beam radiotherapy with high-dose-rate brachytherapy (interstitial or intracavitary), and 8 (16%) (with small superficial Stage I tumors) were treated with local radiotherapy. The median follow-up was 33 months (range: 1–169 months). The 3-year overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), and loco-regional control (LRC) rates were 83%, 59% and 71%, respectively. In multivariate analysis, the histological type (P = 0.044) was significant risk factors for LRC. In Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) Stage I cases, 3 of 8 patients (38%) who did not undergo prophylactic lymph node irradiation had lymph node recurrence, compared with 2 of 12 patients (17%) who underwent prophylactic pelvic irradiation. For Stage III–IV tumors, the local recurrence rate was 50% and the lymph node recurrence rate was 40%. Patients with FIGO Stage I/II or clinical Stage N1 had a higher recurrence rate with treatment using a single modality compared with the recurrence rate using combined modalities. In conclusion, our treatment outcomes for vaginal cancer were acceptable, but external beam radiotherapy with brachytherapy (interstitial or intracavitary) was needed regardless of FIGO stage. Improvement of treatment outcomes in cases of FIGO Stage III or IV remains a significant challenge.

Purpose To investigate the effectiveness of our novel MRI-assisted high-dose-rate interstitial brachytherapy for uterine cervical cancer. Methods and Materials Between June 2005 and June 2009, 29 previously untreated patients with cervical cancer were enrolled (2 T2b, 2 T3a, 19 T3b, and 6 T4 tumors). We implanted MRI-compatible plastic catheters using our unique ambulatory technique. The total treatment doses were 30–36 Gy (6 Gy per fraction) combined with external beam radiotherapy. Results The median D 90 (high-risk clinical target volume), D 2 cc (bladder), and D 2 cc (rectum) per fraction were 6.9, 5, and 4.6 Gy, respectively. The 3-year local control rates were 100%, 95%, and 83% for T2, T3, and T4 tumors, respectively. Grade 3 or 4 late complications occurred in 4 patients. Conclusions Our preliminary evaluation of image-based high-dose-rate interstitial brachytherapy showed favorable local treatment results with an acceptable complication rate.

Background/aim To examine the effectiveness of newly-installed high-dose-rate interstitial brachytherapy (HDR-ISBT) for buccal cancer. Patients and methods We retrospectively reviewed 36 patients (25 men and 11 women) with buccal cancer treated with curative brachytherapy with or without external radiotherapy with a median follow-up of 99 months. A total of 15 HDR-ISBT (median 48 Gy/ 8 fractions, range=24-60 Gy) patients were compared to conventional 15 cases LDR-ISBT (70 Gy, range=42.8-110 Gy) and 7 molds techniques (15 Gy, range=9-74 Gy). A total of 31 patients also underwent external radiotherapy (30 Gy, range=24-48 Gy). They comprised of 3T1, 23 T2, 8 T3, 3 T4 including 11 node positive cases. Results HDR-ISBT provided 82% of local control rate at 5 years, whereas conventional brachytherapy showed 72% [p=0.44; LDR-ISBT (65%), mold therapy (85.7%)]. Patients with early lesions (T1-2 or stage I-II) showed better local control rates than those with advanced lesions (T3-4 or stage III-IV). Severe late grade 3 complications developed in two patients treated with LDR-ISBT and EBRT. There is no significant difference in toxicity grade ≤2 between conventional brachytherapy (5/15=33%) and HDR-ISBT (7/32=32%, p=0.92). Conclusion HDR-ISBT achieved good and comparable local control rates to conventional brachytherapy without elevating the toxicity.

To evaluate the effectiveness of high-dose-rate interstitial brachytherapy (HDR-ISBT) as the only form of radiotherapy for high-risk prostate cancer patients. Between July 2003 and June 2008, we retrospectively evaluated the outcomes of 48 high-risk patients who had undergone HDR-ISBT at the National Hospital Organization Osaka National Hospital. Risk group classification was according to the criteria described in the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines. Median follow-up was 73 months (range 12–109 months). Neoadjuvant androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) was administered to all 48 patients; 12 patients also received adjuvant ADT. Maximal androgen blockade was performed in 37 patients. Median total treatment duration was 8 months (range 3–45 months). The planned prescribed dose was 54 Gy in 9 fractions over 5 days for the first 13 patients and 49 Gy in 7 fractions over 4 days for 34 patients. Only one patient who was over 80 years old received 38 Gy in 4 fractions over 3 days. The clinical target volume (CTV) was calculated for the prostate gland and the medial side of the seminal vesicles. A 10-mm cranial margin was added to the CTV to create the planning target volume (PTV). The 5-year overall survival and biochemical control rates were 98 and 87 %, respectively. Grade 3 late genitourinary and gastrointestinal complications occurred in 2 patients (4 %) and 1 patient (2 %), respectively; grade 2 late genitourinary and gastrointestinal complications occurred in 5 patients (10 %) and 1 patient (2 %), respectively. Even for high-risk patients, HDR-ISBT as the only form of radiotherapy combined with ADT achieved promising biochemical control results, with acceptable late genitourinary and gastrointestinal complication rates.

Purpose: To compare the outcome of our facility with another about the shortened schedule (60 Gy in 10 fractions to 54 Gy in 9 fractions) of high-dose-rate interstitial brachytherapy (HDR ISBT) for mobile tongue cancer. Material and methods: Eighteen patients were treated with HDR ISBT as a monotherapy in dose reduction schedule with some unique technique to determine the border of tumor accuracy (lugol’s staining and metal marker), and to minimize adverse effect (lead-lined silicon block) at our facility. Results: The 2-year local and regional control rates and cause-specific survival rate were 82%, 80%, and 83% and moderate to severe late complications occurred in five patients (28%), which were almost the same treatment results achieved by another facility. Conclusions: We recommend 54 Gy in 9 fractions over 7 days as a feasible treatment to reduce patient discomfort in mobile tongue cancer patients. J Contemp Brachytherapy 2014; 6, 1: 10–14 DOI: 10.5114/jcb.2014.40726

To retrospectively examine the outcomes of hypofractionated stereotactic radiation therapy in three to five fractions for vestibular schwannomas.Twenty-five patients with 26 vestibular schwannomas were treated with hypofractionated stereotactic radiation therapy using a CyberKnife. The vestibular schwannomas of 5 patients were associated with type II neurofibromatosis. The median follow-up time was 80 months (range: 6-167); the median planning target volume was 2.6 cm(3) (0.3-15.4); and the median prescribed dose (≥D90) was 21 Gy in three fractions (18-25 Gy in three to five fractions). Progression was defined as ≥2 mm 3-dimensional post-treatment tumor enlargement excluding transient expansion. Progression or any death was counted as an event in progression-free survival rates, whereas only progression was counted in progression-free rates.The 7-year progression-free survival and progression-free rates were 78 and 95%, respectively. Late adverse events (≥3 months) with grades based on Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events, v4.03 were observed in 6 patients: Grade 3 hydrocephalus in one patient, Grade 2 facial nerve disorders in two and Grade 1-2 tinnitus in three. In total, 12 out of 25 patients maintained pure tone averages ≤50 dB before hypofractionated stereotactic radiation therapy, and 6 of these 12 patients (50%) maintained pure tone averages at this level at the final audiometric follow-up after hypofractionated stereotactic radiation therapy. However, gradient deterioration of pure tone average was observed in 11 of these 12 patients. The mean pure tone averages before hypofractionated stereotactic radiation therapy and at the final follow-up for the aforementioned 12 patients were 29.8 and 57.1 dB, respectively.Treating vestibular schwannomas with hypofractionated stereotactic radiation therapy in three to five fractions may prevent tumor progression with tolerable toxicity. However, gradient deterioration of pure tone average was observed.

To investigate the influence of a 3D image-based treatment-planning method for high-dose-rate interstitial brachytherapy (HDR-ISBT) for mobile tongue cancer, we analyzed dose-volume histogram results for the clinical target volume (CTV) and the mandible. Between October 2010 and November 2011, one and four patients having T2 and T3 tumors, respectively, were treated with HDR-ISBT. Multiplane implantation using 9-15 treatment applicators was performed. Lugol's iodine staining, metal markers, ultrasonography, and magnetic resonance imaging were used to identify the contours of the gross tumor volume (defined as the CTV). The results of the image-based treatment plan were compared with those of the conventional simulated plan on the basis of a reference point 5 mm from the applicator position. The mean D90(CTV) and V100(CTV) were 112% of the prescribed dose (PD) and 98.1%PD, respectively, for the image-based plan, and 113%PD and 97.2%PD, respectively, for the conventional plan. The median CTVref/Vref was 0.23 for the image-based plan and 0.16 for the conventional plan (P = 0.01). The mean D0.1 cm(3) (mandible), D1 cm(3) (mandible), and D2 cm(3) (mandible) were 80.1%PD, 62.5%PD, and 55.7%PD, respectively, for the image-based plan, and 109.1%PD (P = 0.02), 82.4%PD (P = 0.005), and 74%PD (P = 0.004), respectively, for the conventional plan). Image-based treatment planning may achieve high-conformity radiotherapy for the CTV and decrease irradiated doses to the mandible.

Purpose: Re-irradiation has attracted attention as a potential therapy for recurrent head and neck tumors. However, carotid blowout syndrome (CBS) has become a serious complication of re-irradiation because of the associated life-threatening toxicity. Determining of the characteristics of CBS is important. We conducted a multi-institutional study. Methods and patients: Head and neck carcinoma patients (n = 381) were treated with 484 re-irradiation sessions at 7 Japanese CyberKnife institutions between 2000 and 2010. Results: Of these, 32 (8.4%) developed CBS, which proved fatal that median survival time after CBS onset was 0.1 month, and the 1-year survival rate was 37.5%. The median duration between re-irradiation and CBS onset was 5 months (range, 0–69 months). Elder age, skin invasion, and necrosis/infection were identified as statistically significant risk factors after CBS by univariate analysis. The presence of skin invasion at the time of treatment found only in postoperative case, is identified as only statistically significant prognostic factor after CBS in multivariate analysis. The 1-year survival rate for the group without skin invasion was 42%, whereas no patient with skin invasion survived more than 4 months (0% at 1 year, p = 0.0049). Conclusions: Careful attention should be paid to the occurrence of CBS if the tumor is located adjacent to the carotid artery. The presence of skin invasion at CBS onset is ominous sign of lethal consequences. 2013 Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. Radiotherapy and Oncology 107 (2013) 305–309

We conducted a multi-institutional prospective study on accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) using interstitial brachytherapy. The clinical results over a minimum follow-up period of 30 months are presented here. Forty-six patients with breast cancer were treated with breast-conserving surgery and postoperative APBI. After confirmation of negative surgical margins and negative lymph nodes, a high-dose-rate brachytherapy protocol of 36 Gy/6 fractions was carried out. All clinical data were prospectively collected using the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events ver. 3.0. No recurrence was observed. Cumulative rates of grade 2 or higher late sequelae were 25% for fibrosis, 2% for fractures, 9% for pain, and 9% for soft tissue necrosis. Rates of excellent or good cosmetic results as assessed by the physician and patient were 93 and 89% at the 12-month follow-up and 76 and 74% at the 30-month follow-up, respectively. Large volumes of resected tissue in small breasts were associated with fibrosis of grade 2 or higher. APBI in Japanese women provides satisfactory clinical results except for cosmetic outcomes. There is some difficulty with the assessment of fibrosis and cosmetic outcomes, especially in patients with small breasts. UMIN000001677.

Purpose To present, analyze, and discuss results of a nationwide, multicenter, retrospective study on high-dose-rate brachytherapy (HDR-BT) as monotherapy for low-, intermediate-, and high-risk prostate cancer. Methods and Materials From 1995 through 2013, 524 patients, 73 (14%) with low-risk, 207 (40%) with intermediate-risk, and 244 (47%) with high-risk prostate cancer, were treated with HDR-BT as monotherapy at 5 institutions in Japan. Dose fractionations were 27 Gy/2 fractions for 69 patients (13%), 45.5 Gy/7 fractions for 168 (32%), 49 Gy/7 fractions for 149 (28%), 54 Gy/9 fractions for 130 (25%), and others for 8 (2%). Of these patients, 156 (30%) did not receive androgen deprivation therapy, and 202 patients (39%) did receive androgen deprivation therapy 3 years. Median follow-up time was 5.9 years (range, 0.4-18.1 years), with a minimum of 2 years for surviving patients. Results After 5 years, respective actuarial rates of no biochemical evidence of disease, overall survival, cause-specific survival, and metastasis-free survival for all patients were 92%, 97%, 99%, and 94%. For low/intermediate/high-risk patients, the 5-year no biochemical evidence of disease rates were 95%/94%/89%, the 5-year overall survival rates were 98%/98%/94%, the 5-year cause-specific survival rates were 98%/100%/98%, and the 5-year metastasis-free survival rates were 98%/95%/90%, respectively. The cumulative incidence of late grade 2 to 3 genitourinary toxicity at 5 years was 19%, and that of late grade 3 was 1%. The corresponding incidences of gastrointestinal toxicity were 3% and 0% (0.2%). No grade 4 or 5 of either type of toxicity was detected. Conclusions The findings of this nationwide, multicenter, retrospective study demonstrate that HDR-BT as monotherapy was safe and effective for all patients with low-, intermediate-, and high-risk prostate cancer.

Aim To compare survival outcomes for charged particle radiotherapy (CP) and stereotactic body radiotherapy using CyberKnife (CK) in patients who had undergone re-irradiation for head and neck cancers. Patients and methods We conducted a retrospective multi-institutional matched-cohort analysis on 25 patients treated with CP and 25 matched patients treated with CK according to three prognostic factors (nasopharyngeal cancer or not, interval between initial radiotherapy and re-irradiation, and planning target volume). Results CP was used more often to treat non-squamous cell cancer ((non-SCC): 52% vs. 0%) with a higher prescribed dose (median=57.6 Gy(RBE)/16 fractions) than CK (32 Gy/5 fractions). The local control rate (LC) for patients treated with CP was 71.2% at 1 year and that for patients treated with CK was 63.8% (p=0.24). The 1-year overall survival (OS) rates were 67.1% for CP and 36.3% for CK (p=0.0002), respectively. Non-SCC patients showed better OS rates at 1 year than SCC patients. In the SCC sub-group analysis, the 1-year LC, OS rates were 65%, 58.3% in the CP group and 64%, 36.3% in the CK group (p=0.81, p=0.02), respectively. A total of 16 patients (32%) experienced grade 3 or worse toxicities (24% in CK and 40% in CP, p=0.36), including six grade 5 toxicities. Conclusion CP produced higher survival rates than CK, treated more non-SCC patients and used a higher prescribed dose. On the other hand, severe toxicities occurred in both groups, which, however, require further investigation.

We have retrospectively analyzed the outcomes of high-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy as a salvage therapy for vaginal recurrence of endometrial cancer.From 1997 to 2012, salvage HDR brachytherapy was performed in 43 patients. The median age was 64 years (range, 41-88 years). HDR brachytherapy was performed by interstitial brachytherapy in 34 patients (79%) and by intracavity brachytherapy in nine patients (21%). Seventeen (40%) of the 43 patients were treated with external beam radiotherapy. The median followup period was 58 months (range, 6-179 months).The 5-year overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and local control rates (LC) were 84%, 52%, and 78%, respectively. Patients who received brachytherapy with external beam radiotherapy experienced no nodal recurrence (0 of 17 patients), whereas 23% of the patients (6 of 26 patients) who received brachytherapy alone experienced nodal recurrence (p = 0.047). The pathologic grade at the time of initial surgery (G1-2 vs. G3) was found to be a significant prognostic factor for both OS and PFS. The respective 5-year OS was 96% vs. 40% (p 0.01), and the 5-year PFS was 58% vs. 0% (p 0.01). Age (≥60 vs.60) and modality (interstitial brachytherapy vs. intracavity brachytherapy) were significant prognostic factors for LC. The respective 5-year LC was 74% vs. 100% (p = 0.020) and 85% vs. 56% (p = 0.035).HDR brachytherapy is effective and feasible in patients with isolated vaginal recurrence of endometrial cancer. Pathologic grade, age, and modality were significant prognostic factors.

Purpose To introduce an effective ambulatory technique in high-dose-rate interstitial brachytherapy (HDR-ISBT) for prostate cancer, we investigated the displacement distance using our novel calculation method. Methods and Materials Sixty-four patients treated with HDR-ISBT as monotherapy were examined. Of these, 4, 17, and 43 patients were administered treatment doses of 38 Gy (3 days), 49 Gy (4 days), and 54 Gy (5 days), respectively. For dose administration, we used 776 flexible applicators with a removable template (ambulatory technique). Using CT images, we calculated the relative coordinates of the metal markers and applicators. From these coordinates, to analyze displacement during treatment, we measured the distance between the tip of the needle applicator and the center of gravity of the markers along the average applicator vector. Results The median displacement distance for all applicators was 7 mm (range, −14 to 24), and that of each treatment schedule was 4, 6, and 9 mm for 38, 49, and 54 Gy, respectively. Of the 776 applicators, displacement of >10 mm was seen in 198 (26%) applicators and >15 mm in 57 (7%) applicators. Body height (p

To evaluate the correlation between dosimetric parameters and late rectal and urinary toxicities in high-dose-rate brachytherapy (HDR-BT) used as monotherapy for prostate cancer.The data of 83 patients treated with HDR-BT alone for prostate cancer from 2001 through 2005 at Osaka University Hospital were analyzed. Median follow-up time was 36 months (range, 18-70). The total prescribed dose was 54 Gy in nine fractions over 5 days. Correlation between dosimetric parameters and late toxicities was examined.The means of V30, V40, V50, V60, V70, D1cc, D2cc, D5cc, and D10cc of the rectum were significantly higher in 18 patients who presented with late rectal toxicity (Grades 1-3 rectal bleeding) than in the other 65 patients who did not. A significant difference was observed for D1cc-10cc but not for D5-90. The statistically most significant difference was observed for V40 and D5cc. Late rectal toxicity rate was significantly higher for patients with rectal V40or= 8 cc than those with the rectal V408 cc (42% vs. 8%; p0.001), as well as for patients with rectal D5ccor= 27 Gy compared with those with rectal D5cc27 Gy (50% vs. 11%; p0.001). Dosimetric parameters of the urethra of 15 patients with late urinary toxicity were not significantly different from the 68 patients without toxicity.Rectal V408 cc and D5cc27 Gy may be dose-volume constraints in HDR-BT used as monotherapy for prostate cancer.

Background This study aimed to elucidate the influence of skin invasion in patients with recurrent head and neck cancer treated with re-irradiation using stereotactic radiotherapy. Materials We reviewed 104 patients treated using CyberKnife in four institutions. Results Nine cases of skin invasion were recognized (8.6 %). Larger tumors tended to exhibit skin invasion. The skin invasion (+) group showed a lower response rate (0/9, 0 %) than the skin invasion (−) group (56/95, 59 %) (p = 0.002). The skin invasion (+) group showed lower local control (LC) and progression free survival (PFS) rates, both 0 % at 6 months, than the skin invasion (−) group, which had a LC of 69 % (p = 0.0001) and a PFS of 48 % at 1 year (p = 0.0157). Median survival time and one-year survival rates for the skin invasion (+) and (−) groups were 6.6 vs. 15.3 months and 14 % vs. 59 % (p = 0.0005), respectively. No patient with skin invasion survived more than 14.4 months. The percentage of patients who developed grade 3 or higher toxicity was 44 % in the skin invasion (+) group and 18 % in the skin invasion (−) group (p = 0.14). Conclusions Skin invasion is an important predictor of poor prognosis in recurrent head and neck cancer after re-irradiation with stereotactic radiation therapy.

Background In Japan, breast-conserving surgery with closed cavity has generally been performed for breast cancer patients, and accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) is considered difficult because Asian females generally have smaller breast sizes than Western females. Therefore, common identification of target and treatment plan method in APBI is required. A prospective multicenter study was conducted in Japan to determine institutional compliance with APBI using high-dose-rate interstitial brachytherapy (ISBT) designed for Japanese female patients. Methods For this study, 46 patients were recruited at eight institutions from January 2009 to December 2011. The reproducibility of the ISBT–APBI plan was evaluated using three criteria: (1) minimum clinical target volume dose with a clip dose ≥ 6 Gy/fraction, (2) irradiated volume constraint of 40-150 cm3, and (3) uniformity of dose distribution, expressed as the dose non-uniformity ratio (DNR, V150/V100)

Background: To investigate the treatment results of intracranial meningiomas treated with hypofractionated stereotactic radiation therapy in three to five fractions. Methods: Thirty-one patients (32 lesions) with intracranial meningioma were treated with hypofractionated stereotactic radiation therapy in three to five fractions using CyberKnife. Fifteen lesions were diagnosed as Grade I (World Health Organization classification) by surgical resection and 17 lesions were diagnosed as meningioma based on radiological findings. The median follow-up time was 48 months. The median planning target volume was 6.3 cm 3 (range, 1.4‐27.1), and the prescribed dose (D90� ) ranged from 21 to 36 Gy (median, 27.8) administrated in three to five fractions. Results: Five-year overall and progression-free survival rate of all 31 patients with intracranial meningioma was 86 and 83%, respectively. Five-year progression-free rate of all 32 lesions was 87%. Six of the 31 patients (19%) developed marked peritumoral edema, three of whom were asymptomatic and three symptomatic, the latter with late adverse effects of more than or equal to Grade 3. The mean planning target volume of the six lesions with marked peritumoral edema was 15.6 cm 3 , and for the remaining 26 lesions without marked peritumoral edema was 7.1 cm 3 (P ¼ 0.004). The threshold diameter of 2.56 cm for meningioma was calculated from the planning target volume (11 cm 3 ) and was used as marker of developing peritumoral edema (P ¼ 0.003). Conclusions: Tumor volume is a significant indicative factor for peritumoral edema in intracranial meningioma treated with hypofractionated stereotactic radiation therapy in three to five factions.

Background To assess inter-observer variability in delineating target volume and organs at risk in benign tumor adjacent to optic tract as a quality assurance exercise. Methods We quantitatively analyzed 21 plans made by 11 clinicians in seven CyberKnife centers. The clinicians were provided with a raw data set (pituitary adenoma and meningioma) including clinical information, and were asked to delineate the lesions and create a treatment plan. Their contouring and plans (10 adenoma and 11 meningioma plans), were then compared. In addition, we estimated the influence of differences in contouring by superimposing the respective contours onto a default plan. Results The median planning target volume (PTV) and the ratio of the largest to the smallest contoured volume were 9.22 cm3 (range, 7.17 - 14.3 cm3) and 1.99 for pituitary adenoma, and 6.86 cm3 (range 6.05 - 14.6 cm3) and 2.41 for meningioma. PTV volume was 10.1 ± 1.74 cm3 for group 1 with a margin of 1 -2 mm around the CTV (n = 3) and 9.28 ± 1.8 cm3(p = 0.51) for group 2 with no margin (n = 7) in pituitary adenoma. In meningioma, group 1 showed larger PTV volume (10.1 ± 3.26 cm3) than group 2 (6.91 ± 0.7 cm3, p = 0.03). All submitted plan keep the irradiated dose to optic tract within the range of 50 Gy (equivalent total doses in 2 Gy fractionation). However, contours superimposed onto the dose distribution of the default plan indicated that an excessive dose 23.64 Gy (up to 268% of the default plan) in pituitary adenoma and 24.84 Gy (131% of the default plan) in meningioma to the optic nerve in the contours from different contouring. Conclusion Quality assurance revealed inter-observer variability in contour delineation and their influences on planning for pituitary adenoma and meningioma near optic tract.

Background To examine the role of brachytherapy for aged patients 80 or more in the trend of rapidly increasing number. Methods We examined the outcomes for elderly patients with node negative oral tongue cancer (T1-3N0M0) treated with brachytherapy. The 21 patients (2 T1, 14 T2, and 5 T3 cases) ranged in age from 80 to 89 years (median 81), and their cancer was pathologically confirmed. All patients underwent definitive radiation therapy, with low dose rate (LDR) Ra-226 brachytherapy (n = 4; median 70Gy), with Ir-192 (n = 12; 70Gy), with Au-198 (n = 1) or with high dose rate (HDR) Ir-192 brachytherapy (n = 4; 60 Gy). Eight patients also underwent external radiotherapy (median 30 Gy). The period of observation ranged from 13 months to 14 years (median 2.5 years). We selected 226 population matched younger counterpart from our medical chart. Results Definitive radiation therapy was completed for all 21 patients (100%), and acute grade 2-3 mucositis related to the therapy was tolerable. Local control (initial complete response) was attained in 19 of 21 patients (90%). The 2-year and 5-year local control rates were 91%, (100% for T1, 83% for T2 and 80% for T3 tumors after 2 years). These figures was not inferior to that of younger counterpart (82% at 5-year, n.s.). The cause-specific survival rate was 83% and the regional control rate 84% at the 2-years follow-up. However, 12 patients died because of intercurrent diseases or senility, resulting in overall survival rates of 55% at 2 years and 34% at 5 years. Conclusion Age is not a limiting factor for brachytherapy for appropriately selected elderly patients, and brachytherapy achieved good local control with acceptable morbidity.

Purpose To objectively evaluate the radiation dermatitis caused by accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) using high-dose-rate interstitial brachytherapy. Patients and Methods The skin color and moisture changes were examined using a newly installed spectrophotometer and corneometer in 22 patients who had undergone APBI using open cavity implant high-dose-rate interstitial brachytherapy (36 Gy in six fractions) and compared with the corresponding values for 44 patients in an external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) control group (50–60 Gy in 25–30 fractions within 5–6 weeks) after breast conserving surgery. Results All values changed significantly as a result of APBI. The extent of elevation in a∗ (reddish) and reduction in L∗ (black) values caused by APBI were similar to those for EBRT, with slightly delayed recovery for 6–12 months after treatment owing to the surgical procedure. In contrast, only APBI caused a change in the b∗ values, and EBRT did not, demonstrating that the reduction in b∗ values (yellowish) depends largely on the surgical procedure. The changes in moisture were less severe after APBI than after EBRT, and the recovery was more rapid. The toxicity assessment using the Common Toxicity Criteria, version 3, showed that all dermatitis caused by APBI was Grade 2 or less. Conclusion An objective analysis can quantify the effects of APBI procedures on color and moisture cosmesis. The radiation dermatitis caused by APBI using the present schedule showed an equivalent effect on skin color and a less severe effect on moisture than the effects caused by standard EBRT.

To evaluate radiation dermatitis objectively in patients with breast cancer who had undergone post-operative radiotherapy after breast-conserving surgery. Skin color (L*, a*, and b* values) and moisture analyses were performed for both breasts (before, after, 1 month, 6 months, and 1 year after radiotherapy) to examine irradiated and non-irradiated skin divided into four quadrants in 118 patients. These patients underwent breast conservative surgery followed by 50 Gy/25 fractions (median) of radiotherapy with or without boost irradiation (10 Gy/5 fractions). L*, a*, and moisture values were changed by irradiation and maximized at completion or 1 month after radiotherapy. One year after radiotherapy, the skin color had returned to the range observed prior to radiotherapy. However, moisture did not return to previous values even 1 year after treatment. The lateral upper side (quadrant C) showed greater changes than other quadrants in the L* value (darker) at the end of radiotherapy. The Common Toxicity Criteria version 3 scores were found to correlate well with a* and L* values at the completion and 1 month after radiotherapy. Boost radiotherapy intensified reddish and darker color changes at the completion of radiotherapy, while chemotherapy did not intensify the skin reaction caused by radiotherapy. Moisture impairment as a result of irradiation lasts longer than color alterations. Objective assessments are useful for analyzing radiation dermatitis.

The aim of this study was to assess radiation dermatitis, especially exploring the influence of neoadjuvant systemic therapy (NST). We examined maximum toxicity using the Common Toxicity Criteria version 3 score (CTC v3) following radiotherapy between 40 patients treated with NST and 59 patients without NST. In addition, objective skin color (L*, a*, b* values) and moisture analyses were applied in 13 NST and 25 control patients, and the ratio of the values for the irradiated side to the nonirradiated side was calculated. For the CTC v3 assessment, 27 grade 1 (68%) and 13 grade 2 (32%) reactions occurred in the NST group and 44 grade 1 (75%) and 15 grade 2 (25%) reactions in the control group. All ratios except the b* ratio showed significant alterations when radiotherapy was added. The ratio of the a* value peaked at the completion of radiotherapy, whereas the L* ratio bottomed out 1 month later. Furthermore, moisture change remained even 1 year after treatment. Boost irradiation doses caused enhanced alterations in the L* and a* ratios. Furthermore, the L* and a* ratios had good agreement with the CTC v3 assessment. NST did not enhance alterations. Objective analysis is useful for detailed assessment of radiation dermatitis. NST did not worsen skin reactions.

Purpose To investigate the feasibility of our novel image-based high-dose-rate interstitial brachytherapy (HDR-ISBT) for uterine cervical cancer, we evaluated the dose–volume histogram (DVH) according to the recommendations of the Gynecological GEC-ESTRO Working Group for image-based intracavitary brachytherapy (ICBT). Methods and Materials Between June 2005 and June 2007, 18 previously untreated cervical cancer patients were enrolled. We implanted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-available plastic applicators by our unique ambulatory technique. Total treatment doses were 30–36 Gy (6 Gy per fraction) combined with external beam radiotherapy (EBRT). Treatment plans were created based on planning computed tomography with MRI as a reference. DVHs of the high-risk clinical target volume (HR CTV), intermediate-risk CTV (IR CTV), and the bladder and rectum were calculated. Dose values were biologically normalized to equivalent doses in 2-Gy fractions (EQD2). Results The median D90 (HR CTV) and D90 (IR CTV) per fraction were 6.8 Gy (range, 5.5–7.5) and 5.4 Gy (range, 4.2–6.3), respectively. The median V100 (HR CTV) and V100 (IR CTV) were 98.4% (range, 83–100) and 81.8% (range, 64–93.8), respectively. When the dose of EBRT was added, the median D90 and D100 of HR CTV were 80.6 Gy (range, 65.5–96.6) and 62.4 Gy (range, 49–83.2). The D2cc of the bladder was 62 Gy (range, 51.4–89) and of the rectum was 65.9 Gy (range, 48.9–76). Conclusions Although the targets were advanced and difficult to treat effectively by ICBT, MRI-aided image-based ISBT showed favorable results for CTV and organs at risk compared with previously reported image-based ICBT results.

Purpose The purpose of this study was to reconfirm our previous findings that the rectal dose and source strength both affect late rectal bleeding after high-dose-rate intracavitary brachytherapy (HDR-ICBT), by using a rectal dose calculated in accordance with the definitions of the International Commission on Radiation Units and Measurements Report 38 (ICRU RP ) or of dose–volume histogram (DVH) parameters by the Groupe Europeen de Curietherapie of the European Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology. Methods and Materials Sixty-two patients who underwent HDR-ICBT and were followed up for 1 year or more were studied. The rectal dose for ICBT was calculated by using the ICRP RP based on orthogonal radiographs or the DVH parameters based on computed tomography (CT). The total dose was calculated as the biologically equivalent dose expressed in 2-Gy fractions (EQD 2 ). The relationship between averaged source strength or the EQD 2 and late rectal bleeding was then analyzed. Results When patients were divided into four groups according to rectal EQD 2 (≥ or 2 .h -1 ), the group with both a high EQD 2 and a high source strength showed a significantly greater probability of rectal bleeding for ICRU RP , D 2cc , and D 1cc . The patients with a median rectal dose above the threshold level did not show a greater frequency of rectal bleeding unless the source strength exceeded 2.4 cGy.m 2 .h -1 . Conclusions Our results obtained with data based on ICRU RP and CT-based DVH parameters indicate that rectal dose and source strength both affect rectal bleeding after HDR-ICBT.

To establish an initial database of external-beam radiotherapy (EBRT) for clinically localized prostate cancer used in Osaka, Japan, and, by analyzing the results of the Osaka multicenter cooperative study, to determine time trends, outcome, and applicability of existing and the authors’ original risk stratification methods. Data of 652 patients with clinically localized prostate cancer (T1–4 N0 M0) were accrued from July to December 2007. These patients had been treated from 1995 through 2006 with consecutive definitive EBRT of ≥ 60 Gy at eleven institutions, mainly in Osaka. Altogether, 436 patients were eligible for analysis using several risk stratification methods, namely, those of D’Amico et al., the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), and Seattle, as well as the authors’ original Prostate Cancer Risk Index (PRIX). The number of patients showed a tenfold increase over 10 years, together with a rapid spread of the use of Gleason Score from 0% to > 90% of cases. The dominant RT dose fractionation was 70 Gy/35 fractions (87%). Hormone therapy had been administered to 95% of the patients and the higher PRIX corresponded to the higher rate of hormone usage. 3- and 5-year biochemical relapse-free survival (bRFS) rates were 85% and 70%, respectively. The D’Amico (p = 0.132), NCCN (p = 0.138), Seattle (p = 0.041) and PRIX (p = 0.044) classifications showed weak or no correlation with bRFS, while the own modified three-class PRIX (PRIX 0, 1–5, 6) showed a strong correlation (p = 0.002). The use of prostate EBRT in Japan is still in its infancy, but is rapidly expanding. The short-term outcomes have been satisfactory considering the moderate RT dose. A very high rate of hormone usage may affect the outcome favorably, but also may compromise the usefulness of current risk stratification.

To investigate the feasibility of accelerated partial breast irradiation (APBI) for Japanese patients, we started high-dose-rate interstitial brachytherapy (HDR-ISBT) as monotherapy after breast-conserving surgery (BCS). We implanted 45 Tis-2 breast cancer patients at National Hospital Organization Osaka National Hospital between June 2002 and June 2006. Our eligibility criteria were broader than the ones used previously in western countries. We included margin-positive cases and younger patients (median age: 44; range: 26–68) to adapt the criteria for Japanese women. Total prescribed doses were 36–42 Gy in six to seven fractions, and the volumes encompassed by 100% prescribed dose (V100) were 38.5–315.1 cc. Fifteen patients received chemotherapy. Treatment could be completed for all patients. Two local failures (4%) and two distant metastases were observed, while one patient died of liver metastasis. Seven wound complications, four with and three without infection, and two rib fractures occurred. The significant risk factors for wound complications were non-administration of prophylactic antibiotics during ISBT (P

This retrospective study analyzed the effect of the activity of high-dose-rate (HDR) (192)Ir source on late rectal bleeding after HDR intracavitary radiotherapy (ICRT) in patients with uterine cervix cancer.One hundred thirty-two patients who underwent HDR-ICRT and external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) were analyzed. The rectal point dose in ICRT was calculated by inserting a lead wire into the rectal lumen and summed with the whole-pelvic EBRT dose. The rectal biologic effective dose (BED) was calculated. The relationship between averaged source activity or the BED and late rectal bleeding were analyzed.Three-year actuarial rectal bleeding probabilities were 46% (or =100 Gy(3)) and 18% (or = 100 Gy(3)), respectively (p0.005). When patients were divided into four groups according to rectal BED (or = oror =100 Gy(3)) and source activity (or = oror =2.4 cGy.m(2).h(-1)), the group with both a high BED and high activity showed significantly greater probability (58% at 3 years; p0.005). It was noted that the probability of the group with BED of 100 Gy(3) or greater was high, but that was not the case with 2.4 cGy.m(2).h(-1) or less.This is the first clinical report concerning the source activity effect of HDR (192)Ir on late rectal bleeding in patients undergoing HDR-ICRT. This suggests that when source activity is higher than 2.4 cGy.m(2).h(-1), ICRT should be performed with more caution not to exceed 100 Gy(3) in total.

Objective To assess actual rates of late vaginal stenosis and identify predisposing factors for complications among patients with previously untreated cervical cancer following high-dose-rate brachytherapy. Methods We performed longitudinal analyses of 57 patients using the modified Dische score at 6, 12, 18, 24, 36, and 60 months after treatment, which consisted of 15 interstitial brachytherapys and 42 conventional intracavitary brachytherapys, with a median follow-up time of 36 months (range, 6 to 144 months). Results More than half of the patients developed grade 1 (mild) vaginal stenosis within the first year of follow-up, and grade 2 (97.5%, moderate) to grade 3 (severe) stenosis gradually increased with time. Actual stenosis rates for grade 1, 2, and 3 were 97.5% (95% confidence interval [CI], 92.7 to 97.5), 60.7% (95% CI, 42.2 to 79.3), and 7.4% (95% CI, 0 to 18.4) at 3 years after treatment. Pallor reaction grade 2-3 at 6 months was only a statistically significant predisposing factor for grade 2-3 late vaginal stenosis 3 years or later with a hazard ratio of 3.48 (95% CI, 1.32 to 9.19; p=0.018) by a multivariate Cox proportional hazard model. Patients with grade 0-1 pallor reaction at 6 months showed a grade ≥2 vaginal stenosis rate of 53%, whereas the grade 2-3 pallor reaction group achieved a grade ≥2 vaginal stenosis rate at 3 years at 100% (p=0.001). Conclusion High-dose-rate brachytherapy was associated with high incidence of late vaginal stenosis. Pallor reaction grade 2-3 at 6 months was predictive of late grade 2-3 vaginal stenosis at 3 years after treatment. These findings should prove helpful for patient counseling and preventive intervention.

Background To examine the background characteristics of elderly patients (65 years or older) with node-negative mobile tongue cancer (T1-2N0M0) who showed worse local control than a younger group. Materials and methods We retrospectively analyzed background data for 265 patients treated with brachytherapy with or without external radiotherapy between 1967 and 1999. We examined dental factors (such as irritation by prosthesis), leukoplakia, tobacco smoking and alcohol consumption for comparisons between the elderly (age ≥65 years; n = 83) and a control group (64 years or younger; n = 182). Results The elderly patients showed a worse outcome than the control group (respectively 86% and 70% at 5 years; P Conclusions Age and dental factors (including prosthesis irritation) are potentially important prognostic factors for local control of oral tongue cancer treated with brachytherapy, especially for elderly patients.