Complicaciones de la laringectomía total: experiencia de 7 años en un hospital universitario de Paraguay / Complications of total laryngectomy: a 7-year experience in a university hospital in Paraguay

Introducción: El cáncer de laringe es la neoplasia maligna más común de las vías aerodigestivas superiores. La laringectomía total es el tratamiento de elección en casos avanzados, pero se asocia a una alta tasa de complicaciones. Objetivos: Conocer la prevalencia de las complicaciones posquirúrgicas de la laringectomía total y los factores asociados en pacientes con cáncer de laringe. Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional, descriptivo, retrospectivo, de corte transversal, revisando el comportamiento de la laringectomía total y sus principales complicaciones en la Cátedra y Servicio de Otorrinolaringología del Hospital de Clínicas de la Facultad de Ciencias Médicas de la Universidad Nacional de Asunción, Paraguay, de 2015 a 2022. Se incluyeron pacientes mayores de 18 años, de ambos sexos, postoperados de laringectomía total, con diagnóstico anatomopatológico de neoplasia de laringe. Se excluyeron pacientes no operados, con fichas incompletas o que abandonaron el tratamiento. Se analizaron variables demográficas, clínicas, quirúrgicas y anatomopatológicas. Resultados: Se incluyeron 10 pacientes, todos varones, con edad media de 56,3 ± 10,2 años. El 90% presentaba hábitos tóxicos. La complicación más frecuente fue la fístula faringocutánea (70%), seguida por infección del sitio quirúrgico (10%) y sangrado posoperatorio (10%). El 71,4% de las fístulas se resolvieron con medidas conservadoras. El 30% tenía afectación supraglótica y el 57,1% de los que presentaron complicaciones recibieron radioterapia previa. Conclusión: Las complicaciones de la laringectomía total son frecuentes, principalmente la fístula faringocutánea. La afectación supraglótica y la radioterapia previa se asociaron a mayor tasa de complicaciones. Se requieren estudios prospectivos con muestras más grandes para confirmar estos hallazgos.

Introduction: Laryngeal cancer is the most common malignant neoplasm of the upper aerodigestive tract. Total laryngectomy is the treatment of choice in advanced cases, but it is associated with a high rate of complications. Objectives: To determine the prevalence of postoperative complications of total laryngectomy and associated factors in patients with laryngeal cancer. Materials and methods: Observational, descriptive, retrospective, cross-sectional study, reviewing the behavior of total laryngectomy and its main complications in the Department of Otorhinolaryngology of the Hospital de Clínicas, Faculty of Medical Sciences, National University of Asunción, Paraguay, from 2015 to 2022. Patients over 18 years of age, of both sexes, who underwent total laryngectomy, with anatomopathological diagnosis of laryngeal neoplasm were included. Non-operated patients, those with incomplete records or who abandoned treatment were excluded. Demographic, clinical, surgical and anatomopathological variables were analyzed. Results: Ten patients were included, all male, with a mean age of 56.3 ± 10.2 years. Ninety percent had toxic habits. The most frequent complication was pharyngocutaneous fistula (70%), followed by surgical site infection (10%) and postoperative bleeding (10%). Conservative measures resolved 71.4% of the fistulas. Thirty percent had supraglottic involvement and 57.1% of those who presented complications received previous radiotherapy. Conclusion: Complications of total laryngectomy are frequent, mainly pharyngocutaneous fistula. Supraglottic involvement and previous radiotherapy were associated with a higher rate of complications. Prospective studies with larger samples are required to confirm these findings.

Incidence of radiodermatitis and factors associated with its severity in women with breast cancer: a cohort study

Abstract Background: One of the main adverse reactions of adjuvant radiotherapy for breast cancer is radiodermatitis. Objective: To assess the incidence of radiodermatitis in women with breast cancer, identify factors associated with its severity and determine the time at which this event occurs. Methods: Prospective cohort study in 113 women with breast cancer who were evaluated before radiotherapy and at every fifth session until the end of treatment. Logistic regression and Cox proportional regression model were used for the assessment of risk factors; P values < 0.05 were considered significant. Results: The incidence rate of radiodermatitis was 98.2% and it was demonstrated that for each additional point of the Body Mass Index (BMI), the chance of occurrence of grades II to IV radiodermatitis increases by 14% (OR = 1.14 [95% CI 1.04-1.26]; p = 0.004) and statin use increases the risk of more severe skin lesions by four-fold (OR = 4.27 [95% CI 1.11-16.42]; p = 0.035). The exclusive use of hydrogel for skin hydration was an independent factor in delaying the onset of radiodermatitis (HR = 0.55 [95% CI 0.36-0.82]; p = 0.004). Study limitations: The main limitation of this study was its external validity. The identified factors should be considered for services and populations similar to those in this study. Conclusions: There was a high incidence of radiodermatitis and its severity was related to higher BMI, statin use; there was a protective effect of hydrogel use.

R-CHOP and consolidation radiotherapy for limited-stage and low-IPI high-grade b-cell lymphoma with MYC and BCL2 and/or BCL6 rearrangements: A single-center case series and review of literature

@#High-Grade B-Cell Lymphoma (HGBCL) with gene rearrangements in MYC and BCL2 and/or BCL6 is an aggressive malignancy usually presenting in advanced stages. Current recommendations suggest the use of regimens more intensive than R-CHOP (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicin, prednisone), which are based on retrospective studies and single-arm prospective trials that included patients who are mostly in the advanced stage, and did not receive consolidation radiotherapy. The optimal approach and treatment of HGBCL, whether limited-stage (LS) or advanced-stage, remains to be determined. Here we describe the promising outcomes of three patients with LS and low IPI HGBCL with the use of R-CHOP as induction chemotherapy regimen, which was followed by consolidation radiotherapy. Three women, 54-, 60-, and 64-years of age diagnosed to have HGBCL with MYC, and BCL2 and/or BCL6 rearrangements, with Ann Arbor stages I-IIE were included in this case series. All three patients had complete metabolic response to 6 cycles of R-CHOP and was subsequently treated with consolidation involved site radiotherapy (ISRT; total dose 30-36 Gy). Chemotherapy and radiotherapy were tolerated very well. All patients remain to be in remission, with the longest being at 23 months. Outcomes of patients with HGBCL generally remain to be poor, but this may not be the case for patients with limited-stage disease and favorable clinicopathologic risk profile. Nevertheless, the treatment of HGBCL is currently evolving and more studies are needed to determine the ideal approach and preferred chemotherapy regimen. Also, more studies are needed to elucidate the potential role of consolidation radiotherapy in patients with limited-stage HGBCL to improve survival outcomes. Findings of this case series suggest that patients with LS HGBCL may still derive benefit from R-CHOP followed by consolidation ISRT, but prospective trials are needed to confirm this.

Advances in Head-and-Neck Interventional Radiotherapy (Brachytherapy)

@#Interventional radiotherapy, also known as brachytherapy, is the use of sealed radioactive sources that directly deliver radiation to the tumor or tumor bed. Its unique dose distribution profile allows for high conformality, making it a very useful modality in the treatment of cancers in the head and neck, where different organs and substructures that serve various but related functions are situated close to each other. In recent years, we have seen several important technological breakthroughs in the field, especially regarding its application in head and neck cancers. These include advances in treatment delivery, dosimetry planning , image guidance , and catheter positioning techniques . These innovations, which often require interdisciplinary interventions, have resulted in enhanced treatment accuracy, and therefore, major clinical advantages in terms of increased local control and decreased toxicity, as well as economic benefits. In order to highlight the differences from old brachytherapy techniques, a more appropriate terminology should perhaps be adopted, to signify these advancements that resulted in new opportunities, approaches and better outcomes – interventional radiotherapy (IRT). Such a change in terminology will not only allow recognition of these advances, but also a meaningful distinction from obsolete techniques and suboptimal outcomes that are associated with traditional brachytherapy. This is very important in increasing awareness among professionals outside the field of radiation oncology. We briefly review these recent advances, the current indications, and future directions for IRT in head-and-neck cancers.

Study on relationship of target organ injury of mechanism and "structure-effect-dose" of Hedysari Radix during radiotherapy-chemotherapy induced / 中国药理学通报

Aim To explore the possible mechanism of "component-target-pathway" of Radix Hedysari against target organ damage caused by radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and to verify the " dose-effect" relationship of the main active components. Methods TCMSP, Uniprot, Swiss Target Prediction, GeneCards, Cytoscape, Omicshare and other platforms were used for network pharmacology analysis. Autodock, Pymol and Ligplot were used for molecular docking. The water extract of Radix Hedysari was used for animal experiment verification. The contents of eight main components were determined by HPLC. Results Four active components, eight key targets and four key pathways of Radix Hedysari were identified to resist the damage of target organs caused by radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Molecular docking showed that formononetin and quercetin had good binding activity with HSP90AA1, naringenin and MAPK3, and ursolic acid and TP53. Animal experiments showed that gastrointestinal factors MTL and VIP increased significantly, liver and kidney factors Cr, BUN, AST and ALT decreased significantly, inflammatory factor IL-10 increased significantly and TNF-a decreased significantly. The content of ononm was the highest (2 . 884 8 µg • g "

Self-sufficient nanoparticles with dual-enzyme activity trigger radical storms and activate cascade-amplified antitumor immunologic responses

Radiotherapy (RT) can potentially induce systemic immune responses by initiating immunogenic cell death (ICD) of tumor cells. However, RT-induced antitumor immunologic responses are sporadic and insufficient against cancer metastases. Herein, we construct multifunctional self-sufficient nanoparticles (MARS) with dual-enzyme activity (GOx and peroxidase-like) to trigger radical storms and activate the cascade-amplified systemic immune responses to suppress both local tumors and metastatic relapse. In addition to limiting the Warburg effect to actualize starvation therapy, MARS catalyzes glucose to produce hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), which is then used in the Cu+-mediated Fenton-like reaction and RT sensitization. RT and chemodynamic therapy produce reactive oxygen species in the form of radical storms, which have a robust ICD impact on mobilizing the immune system. Thus, when MARS is combined with RT, potent systemic antitumor immunity can be generated by activating antigen-presenting cells, promoting dendritic cells maturation, increasing the infiltration of cytotoxic T lymphocytes, and reprogramming the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, the synergistic therapy of RT and MARS effectively suppresses local tumor growth, increases mouse longevity, and results in a 90% reduction in lung metastasis and postoperative recurrence. Overall, we provide a viable approach to treating cancer by inducing radical storms and activating cascade-amplified systemic immunity.

Factors associated with the quality of life of women undergoing radiotherapy / Factores asociados a la calidad de vida de mujeres en radioterapia / Fatores associados à qualidade de vida de mulheres submetidas à radioterapia

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the skin characteristics and quality of life of patients with breast cancer undergoing radiotherapy. Method: Cross-sectional study conducted with 60 women. The classification scales of skin changes resulting from exposure to ionizing radiation (RTOG) and the validated versions in Portuguese of those that classified skin types (Fitzpatrick), symptoms (RISRAS) and quality of life (DLQI) were applied. in the period between December 2021 and October 2022. For data analysis, Fisher's Exact Test, Chi-Square and Asymptotic General Independence Test were used. Results: 100% of patients had skin irritation. As the treatment progressed and the radiodermatitis appeared or worsened, there was a tendency for the intensity of signs and symptoms to increase, such as: sensitivity, discomfort or pain, itching, burning and heat, dry and wet desquamation, which may have impacted the quality of life and reflected in other aspects, such as: shopping activities or outings (p=0.0020), social activities or leisure activities (p=0.0420). Conclusion: Radiodermatitis is a common condition that affects women with breast cancer undergoing radiotherapy, skin characteristics and quality of life of patients affected during this treatment.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Evaluar las características de la piel y la calidad de vida de pacientes con cáncer de mama en tratamiento con radioterapia. Método: Estudio transversal con 60 mujeres. Se aplicaron la escala de clasificación de alteraciones cutáneas por exposición a radiaciones ionizantes (RTOG) y las versiones validadas en portugués de las que clasificaban tipos de piel (Fitzpatrick), síntomas (RISRAS) y calidad de vida (DLQI) en el período comprendido entre diciembre 2021 y octubre de 2022. Para el análisis de los datos se utilizaron el Test Exacto de Fisher, Chi-Cuadrado y el Test de Independencia General Asintótica. Resultados: El 100% de los pacientes evaluados sobre la piel. A medida que avanzaba el tratamiento y aparecía o empeoraba la radiodermatitis, hubo tendencia a aumentar la intensidad de los signos y síntomas, tales como: sensibilidad, malestar o dolor, visualización, ardor y calor, descamación seca y húmeda, que pudieron haber tenido una impacto en la calidad de vida y reflejado en otros aspectos, como: actividades de compra o salidas (p=0,0020), actividades sociales o de ocio (p=0,0420). Conclusión: La radiodermatitis es una afección común que afecta a mujeres con cáncer de mama, sometidas a radioterapia, las características de la piel y la calidad de vida de las pacientes afectadas durante este tratamiento.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar as características da pele e a qualidade de vida de pacientes com câncer de mama submetidas à radioterapia. Método: Estudo transversal com 60 mulheres. Foram aplicadas as escalas de classificação das alterações cutâneas decorrentes da exposição à radiação ionizante (RTOG) e as versões validadas em português das que classificaram os tipos de pele (Fitzpatrick), os sintomas (RISRAS) e a qualidade de vida (DLQI), no período entre dezembro de 2021 e outubro de 2022. Para a análise de dados, foram utilizados os Testes Exato de Fisher, Qui-Quadrado e Teste de Independência Geral Assintótica. Resultados: 100% das pacientes apresentaram irritação na pele. À medida que o tratamento avançou e que a radiodermatite surgiu ou se agravou, houve maior tendência de intensidade de sinais e sintomas, como: sensibilidade, desconforto ou dor, coceira, queimação e calor, descamação seca e úmida, o que pode ter impactado na qualidade de vida e refletido em outros aspectos, como: atividades de compras ou passeios (p=0,0020), programação social ou atividade de lazer (p=0,0420). Conclusão: A radiodermatite é uma condição comum que afeta as mulheres com câncer de mama submetidas à radioterapia, as características da pele e a qualidade de vida das pacientes são afetadas durante esse tratamento.

Clinical manifestations of I-131 induced salivary gland dysfunction in patients with thyroid carcinoma

Aim: To carry out a retrospective analysis of the frequency and severity of clinical signs of radioiodine (131I)-induced damage to the salivary glands in the early and long-term post-radiation periods, and identify risk factors for their occurrence in patients with differentiated thyroid carcinomas. Methods: A total of 330 patients underwent thyroidectomy with dissection of lymphatic nodes. One month after surgery, all the patients received radioiodine therapy. The dose and number of courses varied depending on the stage and morphological type of the tumor. In the late post-radiation period, the patients were surveyed with the use of a standard questionnaire, which allowed retrospective assessment of the nature and severity of symptoms of radiationinduced damage, as well as the time of their onset/subsidence. Results: Radiation-induced sialoadenitis of the salivary glands was observed in 51.2% of patients treated with 131I. The main symptoms included pain and discomfort in the salivary glands (51.2% of patients), swelling (48.8%), transient or permanent dry mouth (38%), and distortion of taste (38%). There were statistically significant correlations between the presence and severity of the main clinical symptoms of salivary gland irradiation. A significant relationship (r = 0.91, p < 0.001) was found between swelling of the salivary glands and the feeling of pain or discomfort, which was indicative of inflammation and retention of saliva. Conclusion: The main factors influencing the formation of chronic radiation-induced sialoadenitis and the severity of the inflammatory process included the tumor stage, the total dose of radiopharmaceuticals, and the duration following radioiodine therapy

Sobrevida del cáncer glótico en estadio inicial en 4 centros hospitalarios de Uruguay / Survival of glottic cancer in the initial stage in 4 hospital centers in Uruguay / Sobrevivência de câncer glótico em estágio inicial em 4 hospitais uruguaios

Introducción: El cáncer de laringe es el tumor maligno de mayor prevalencia en la Otorrinolaringología. La topografía glótica es la más frecuente en Uruguay y suele detectarse en estadios tempranos dada la manifestación precoz y sostenida de disfonía. El objetivo de este estudio es describir la sobrevida libre de enfermedad (SLE) y la sobrevida global (SG) de los pacientes con cáncer de laringe glótico en estadio T1N0M0 en 4 instituciones de Montevideo. Metodología: Se analizó de forma retrospectiva la SG y SLE de 55 pacientes diagnosticados con cáncer de glotis T1 entre los años 2009 y 2019. Para el cálculo de la sobrevida se utilizó el método de Kaplan-Meier. Se estudió además el efecto de variables pronósticas de interés sobre la SG mediante análisis univariado y multivariado. Resultados: En la muestra analizada la SG de los pacientes con cáncer glótico T1N0M0 fue como media de 7.706 años (IC 95% 6.63 - 8.78). A los 5 años, la SG fue de 77.5% (± 7%) y de 62% (± 9.8%) a los 10 años. La SLE para todos los pacientes correspondió al 74.6% (± 7.5%) y 63.1% (± 9.8%), a 5 y 10 años respectivamente. No se alcanzaron las medianas de SG ni de SLE para los grupos. Conclusiones: Los valores de SG y SLE medios obtenidos en nuestro medio son comparables a los valores reportados en la bibliografía internacional. No se alcanzó la mediana de SG ni de SLE, por lo que se puede afirmar que ésta enfermedad tiene, cuando se realiza el tratamiento adecuado, un buen pronóstico vital a los 10 años. Se requiere un seguimiento más largo para determinar las medianas de SG y SLE de los grupos en estudio.

Introduction: Laryngeal cancer is the most prevalent malignant tumor in Otorhinolaryngology. Glottic topography is the most frequent in Uruguay and is usually detected in early stages given the early and sustained manifestation of dysphonia. The objective of this study is to analyze disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) of patients with stage T1N0M0 glottic laryngeal cancer at 4 institutions in Montevideo. Methodology: The mean OS and DFS of 55 patients diagnosed with T1 glottic cancer between 2009 and 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Kaplan-Meier method was used to calculate survival. The prognostic effect of certain variables of interest on OS was also studied using univariate and multivariate analysis. Results: In this study, mean odds survival (OS) for T1N0M0 glottic cancer was 7.706 years (CI 95% 6.63 - 8.78). At 5 years, OS was 77.5% (± 7%) and at 10 years was 62% (± 9.8%). Disease free survival (DFS) was 74.6% ± (7.5%) at 5 years and 63.1% (± 9.8%), at 10 years. Median OS and DFS for the groups were not reached. Conclusions: OS and DFS in our medium is comparable to that reported in the international literature. The median OS and DFS were not reached, so it can be stated that this disease has, when appropriate treatment is performed, a good vital prognosis at 10 years. Longer follow-up is required to determine the median OS and DFS of the study groups.

Introdução: O câncer de laringe é o tumor maligno mais prevalente na Otorrinolaringologia. A topografia glótica é a mais frequente no Uruguai e geralmente é detectada em estágios iniciais devido à manifestação precoce e sustentada da disfonia. O objetivo deste estudo é analisar a sobrevida livre de doença (DFS) e a sobrevida global (OS) de pacientes com câncer de laringe glótico estágio T1N0M0 em 4 instituições em Montevidéu. Metodologia: Foram analisados retrospectivamente o OS e DFS de 55 pacientes diagnosticados com câncer glótico T1 entre 2009 e 2019. O método de Kaplan-Meier foi usado para calcular a sobrevida. Resultados: Na amostra, a sobrevida global (OS) do câncer glótico T1N0M0 foi em média de 7.706 anos (IC 95% 6,63 - 8,78). Aos 5 anos, a OS foi de 77,5% (± 7%) e 62% (± 9,8%) aos 10 anos. A DFS para todos os pacientes correspondeu a 74,6% (± 7,5%) e 63,1% (± 9,8%), aos 5 e 10 anos, respectivamente. As medianas de OS e DFS para os grupos não foram alcançadas. Conclusões: OS e DFS em nosso ambiente é comparável ao relatado na literatura internacional. As medianas de SG e SLD não foram alcançadas, pelo que se pode afirmar que esta doença apresenta, quando realizado tratamento adequado, um bom prognóstico vital aos 10 anos. É necessário um acompanhamento mais longo para determinar a mediana da SG e da SLD dos grupos de estudo.

Effect of Survivin Down-Regulation by Egr1-Survivin shRNA Combined with Radiotherapy on Radiosensitivity of Esophageal Squamous Carcinoma / Efecto de la Regulación Negativa de Survivina por shRNA de Egr1-Survivina Combinado con Radioterapia sobre la Radiosensibilidad del Carcinoma Escamoso de Esófago

SUMMARY: This study is to investigate the effect of survivin down-regulation by Egr1-survivin shRNA combined with radiotherapy on the apoptosis and radiosensitivity of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma ECA109 and KYSE150 cells. ECA109 and KYSE150 cells were transfected with Egr1-survivin shRNA, and then treated with radiotherapy. After 24 h, the mRNA and protein levels of Egr1-survivin were detected by qPCR and Western-Blot. Cell cycle and apoptosis were detected by flow cytometry. Western blot also detected levels of cleavaged Caspase 3 and Caspase 9. YM155 was used as a positive control to inhibit survivin expression. The levels of survivin mRNA and protein in ECA109 and KYSE150 cells treated with Egr1-survivin shRNA combined with radiotherapy were significantly lower than those of the blank control group, the empty vector control group, and, the YM155 + radiotherapy group (P<0.05). Meanwhile, after survivin down-regulation, the ratio of G2 to S phase of ECA109 and KYSE150 cells increased significantly, leading to significant G2 and S phase arrest. Additionally, apoptosis of ECA109 and KYSE150 cells increased significantly (P <0.01). Further, protein levels of cleavaged Caspase 3 and Caspase 9 significantly increased in Egr1-survivin shRNA combined with radiotherapy group. Egr1-survivin shRNA combined with radiotherapy can down-regulate survivin expression, which further increases the apoptosis, and enhances the radiosensitivity of ECA109 and KYSE150 cells.

Este estudio tuvo como objetivo investigar el efecto de la regulación negativa de survivina por el shRNA de Egr1-survivina combinado con radioterapia sobre la apoptosis y la radiosensibilidad del carcinoma de células escamosas de esófago Células ECA109 y KYSE150. Las células ECA109 y KYSE150 se transfectaron con shRNA de survivina Egr1 y luego se trataron con radioterapia. Después de 24 h, los niveles de ARNm y proteína de Egr1-survivina se detectaron mediante qPCR y Western-Blot. El ciclo celular y la apoptosis se detectaron mediante citometría de flujo. La transferencia Western también detectó niveles de Caspasa 3 y Caspasa 9 escindidas. Se usó YM155 como control positivo para inhibir la expresión de survivina. Los niveles de ARNm y proteína de survivina en células ECA109 y KYSE150 tratadas con shRNA de survivina Egr1 combinado con radioterapia fueron significativamente más bajos que los del grupo control en blanco, el grupo control de vector vacío y el grupo de radioterapia YM155 + (P <0,05). Mientras tanto, después de la regulación negativa de survivina, la proporción entre las fases G2 y S de las células ECA109 y KYSE150 aumentó significativamente, lo que llevó a una detención significativa de las fases G2 y S. Además, la apoptosis de las células ECA109 y KYSE150 aumentó significativamente (P <0,01). Además, los niveles de proteína de Caspasa 3 y Caspasa 9 escindidas aumentaron significativamente en el shRNA de Egr1- survivina combinado con el grupo de radioterapia. El shRNA de survivina de Egr1 combinado con radioterapia puede regular negativamente la expresión de survivina, lo que aumenta aún más la apoptosis y mejora la radiosensibilidad de las células ECA109 y KYSE150.

Uso de barreras primarias en función del ángulo del gantry en búnker de radioterapia / Uso de barreiras primárias em função do ângulo do gantry em bunkers de radioterapia / Use of primary barriers as a function of gantry angle in radiotherapy bunker

Introducción: el diseño de los búnkeres de radioterapia es de vital importancia no solo por la seguridad radiológica, sino también por el costo que implican. Los cálculos de blindaje de las paredes primarias de los búnkeres de los aceleradores lineales de radioterapia se determinan a partir del factor de uso de estas paredes. Los documentos internacionales como el NCRP 151 utilizan para el cálculo de estas barreras un factor de uso igual a 0.25. Objetivo: estudiar la distribución del uso de las barreras primarias en función de los tratamientos realizados buscando contrastar la homogeneidad en el uso de las barreras. Material y Métodos: con los datos de pacientes realizados durante un año (2021) en dos aceleradores lineales, uno dual y otro monoenergético, se generó una base de datos con la que se calculó la frecuencia de uso de las paredes primarias. En el presente trabajo se evalúa la diferencia entre el uso dado de las barreras y las estimaciones de uso internacional. Resultados: se encuentra que en el acelerador dual en la energía de 15X los campos más usados tienen ángulos de gantry 0º, 90º, 180º, 270º, teniendo un peso acumulado aproximado al 65% al igual que la carga de trabajo para esos ángulos, esto implica que los ángulos diferentes a estos tienen un uso muy inferior al previsto por el cálculo inicial. En el acelerador dual en la energía de 6X el campo más usado es a 0º teniendo un peso aproximado al 14%, pero la carga de trabajo a 0º no se diferencia apreciablemente del resto de los ángulos ya que la distribución no tiene direcciones preferenciales, ninguno de los valores llega a 10% que concuerda con el uso homogéneo de la barrera. En el acelerador monoenergético el peso relativo de los ángulos de 90º y 270º en el uso de las barreras es aproximadamente 34% para cada una, superior al 25% estimado inicialmente. Conclusiones: las barreras primarias de los búnkeres de radioterapia tienen espesores marcados por el cálculo de blindaje, los cuales se pueden hacer basados en documentos internacionales que son referencia del tema. Se considera en las referencias para la barrera primaria un factor de uso igual para las mismas, sin embargo en la práctica clínica se pueden tener un factor de uso no uniforme respondiendo a los tipos de tratamientos que se designen realizar en el equipo. Esta realidad abre la puerta para plantear blindajes optimizados que podrían generar búnkeres más económicos y mejor utilización del espacio de acuerdo a las condiciones dadas para cada caso en particular.

Introduction: The design of radiotherapy bunkers is of vital importance not only for radiation safety, but also for the cost involved. The shielding calculations of the primary walls of radiotherapy linear accelerator bunkers are determined from the use factor of these walls. International documents such as NCRP 151 use for the calculation of these barriers a usage factor equal to 0.25. Objective: to study the distribution of the use of primary barriers according to the treatments performed, seeking to contrast the homogeneity in the use of the barriers. Material and Methods: with the data of patients performed during one year (2021) in two linear accelerators, one dual and the other monoenergetic, a database was generated with which the frequency of use of the primary walls was calculated. The present work evaluates the difference between the given use of the barriers and the estimates of international use. Results: it is found that in the dual accelerator at 15X energy the most used fields have gantry angles 0º, 90º, 180º, 270º, having an accumulated weight of approximately 65% as well as the workload for those angles, this implies that the angles different from these have a use much lower than the one foreseen by the initial calculation. In the dual accelerator at 6X energy the most used field is at 0º having an approximate weight of 14%, but the workload at 0º is not appreciably different from the rest of the angles since the distribution does not have preferential directions, none of the values reaches 10% which is consistent with the homogeneous use of the barrier. In the monoenergetic accelerator, the relative weight of the 90º and 270º angles in the use of the barriers is approximately 34% for each one, higher than the 25% initially estimated. Conclusions: the primary barriers of radiotherapy bunkers have thicknesses marked by the shielding calculation, which can be made based on international documents that are a reference on the subject. It is considered in the references for the primary barrier an equal use factor for them, however in clinical practice they can have a non-uniform use factor responding to the types of treatments that are designed to be performed in the equipment. This reality opens the door to propose optimized shielding that could generate more economical bunkers and better use of space according to the conditions given for each particular case.

Introdução: O projeto de bunkers de radioterapia é de vital importância não apenas para a segurança da radiação, mas também para o custo envolvido. Os cálculos de blindagem para as paredes primárias dos bunkers de aceleradores lineares de radioterapia são determinados com base no fator de uso dessas paredes. Documentos internacionais, como o NCRP 151, usam um fator de uso igual a 0,25 para o cálculo dessas barreiras. Objetivo: estudar a distribuição do uso de barreiras primárias de acordo com os tratamentos realizados, buscando contrastar a homogeneidade no uso das barreiras. Material e métodos: com os dados de pacientes tratados durante um ano (2021) em dois aceleradores lineares, um dual e outro monoenergético, foi gerado um banco de dados com o qual foi calculada a frequência de uso das paredes primárias. Este artigo avalia a diferença entre o uso determinado de barreiras e as estimativas internacionais de uso. Resultados: verifica-se que no acelerador duplo com energia de 15X os campos mais utilizados são os ângulos de pórtico 0º, 90º, 180º, 270º, com um peso acumulado de aproximadamente 65%, assim como a carga de trabalho para esses ângulos, o que implica que os ângulos diferentes desses têm um uso muito menor do que o previsto pelo cálculo inicial. No acelerador duplo a 6X de energia, o campo mais utilizado é o de 0º com um peso aproximado de 14%, mas a carga de trabalho em 0º não é sensivelmente diferente do resto dos ângulos, já que a distribuição não tem direções preferenciais, nenhum dos valores chega a 10%, o que é consistente com o uso homogêneo da barreira. No acelerador de monoenergia, o peso relativo dos ângulos de 90º e 270º no uso das barreiras é de aproximadamente 34% para cada um, superior aos 25% estimados inicialmente. Conclusões: as barreiras primárias dos bunkers de radioterapia têm espessuras balizadas pelo cálculo de blindagem, que pode ser feito com base em documentos internacionais que são referência no assunto. As referências para a barreira primária consideram um fator de uso igual para elas, mas na prática clínica elas podem ter um fator de uso não uniforme, dependendo do tipo de tratamento que o equipamento foi projetado para realizar. Essa realidade abre as portas para uma blindagem otimizada que poderia gerar bunkers mais econômicos e melhor uso do espaço de acordo com as condições dadas para cada caso específico.

Valor de la elastografía por patrones de colores en la reestadificación del cáncer de recto / Value of elastography by color patterns in the restaging of rectal cancer i: en

Introducción: La elastografía cualitativa por ecografía endoscópica es una técnica para examinar las propiedades elásticas de los tejidos, que puede distinguir la fibrosis del tumor mediante patrones de colores. Objetivo: Determinar el valor de la elastografía por patrones de colores en la reestadificación del cáncer de recto. Métodos: Se efectuó un estudio observacional y descriptivo (serie de casos) de 54 pacientes con cáncer de recto atendidos en el Centro Nacional de Cirugía de Mínimo Acceso, en La Habana, entre septiembre del 2018 y diciembre del 2022, a quienes se les realizó elastografía por ecografía endoscópica para la reevaluación del tumor. Para determinar el valor de dicha técnica se calculó la sensibilidad, la especificidad, los valores predictivos positivo y negativo, las razones de verosimilitud positiva y negativa, así como el índice de Youden. Se estableció la concordancia diagnóstica según el índice kappa y el estudio histológico de la muestra tomada fue el estándar de referencia. Resultados: La concordancia de la elastografía con el resultado anatomopatológico fue buena (κ=0,84). La especificidad y el índice de validez resultaron ser de 91,7 y 94,4 %, respectivamente; mientras que el valor predictivo negativo fue de 84,6 %. Los 16 pacientes con patrón elastográfico mixto (ye3) tenían tumor residual localizado en alguna de las capas de la pared del recto. El índice de Youden alcanzó valores cercanos a 1. Conclusiones: El valor de esta técnica radica en su especificidad diagnóstica y en el valor predictivo negativo al diferenciar la fibrosis del tumor residual en la pared rectal.

Introduction: The qualitative elastography by endoscopic echography is a technique to examine the elastic properties of tissues that can distinguish the fibrosis of the tumor by means of color patterns. Objective: To determine the value of elastography by color patterns in the reestadification of the rectum cancer. Methods: An observational and descriptive study (serial cases) of 54 patients with rectum cancer was carried out, who were assisted in the National Center of Minimum Access Surgery, in Havana, between September, 2018 and December, 2022 to whom elastography by endoscopic echography were carried out for the reevaluation of the tumor. To determine the value of this technique the sensibility, specificity, the predictive positive and negative values, the positive and negative true ratio, as well as the index of Youden were calculated. The diagnostic consistency was established according to the kappa index and the histologic study of the sample was the reference standard. Results: The elastography consistency with the pathologic result was good (ĸ=0.84). The specificity and the index of validity were 91.7 and 94.4%, respectively; while the negative predictive value was 84.6%. The 16 patients with mixed elastographic pattern (ye3) had residual tumor located in some of the layers of the rectum wall. The Youden index reached values close to 1. Conclusions: The value of this technique resides in its diagnostic specificity and negative predictive value when differentiating fibrosis from the residual tumor in the rectal wall.

Fracture in Irradiated Rat Femur: A Description of an Experimental Model and Evaluation of its Effectiveness / Fratura em fêmur irradiado de rato: Descrição de um modelo experimental e avaliação de sua eficácia

Abstract Objective We aim to describe an experimental model for studying femoral fractures in rats after exposure to ionizing radiation, demonstrating a way to apply a substance for analysis, the method for patterning fracture and irradiation, and how to evaluate its effectiveness based on radiographic studies. Methods We used 24 rats divided into 2 groups of 12 animals each. The STUDY group was exposed to ionizing radiation and treated with saline solution, and the CONTROL group was not exposed to radiation and was treated with saline solution. All animals were subjected to standardized fracture of the right femur that was fixed with intramedullary wire. The efficiency of the bone union was assessed by radiographic exam. Results Fracture healing was more efficient in bones not exposed to ionizing radiation (p = 0.012). All fractures met the criteria of being simple, diaphyseal, transverse or short oblique. Conclusion The experimental model presented is an efficient alternative for the study of fractures in irradiated bones in rats.

Resumo Objetivo Nosso objetivo é descrever um modelo experimental para estudo de fraturas de fêmur em ratos após exposição a radiação ionizante, demonstrando uma forma de aplicação de uma substância para análise, o método de padronização de fratura e irradiação e a forma de avaliação de sua eficácia com base em estudos radiográficos. Métodos Utilizamos 24 ratos divididos em dois grupos de 12 animais cada. O grupo ESTUDO foi exposto à radiação ionizante e tratado com soro fisiológico, enquanto o grupo CONTROLE não foi exposto à radiação e foi tratado com soro fisiológico. Todos os animais foram submetidos à fratura padronizada do fêmur direito e sua fixação com fio intramedular. A eficácia da consolidação óssea foi determinada por exame radiográfico. Resultados A cicatrização de fraturas foi mais eficiente em ossos não expostos à radiação ionizante (p = 0,012). Todas as fraturas atenderam aos critérios de serem simples, diafisárias, transversas ou oblíquas curtas. Conclusão O modelo experimental apresentado é uma boa alternativa para o estudo de fraturas em ossos irradiados em ratos.

Evaluation of the response rate to neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy in patients with rectal adenocarcinoma: a retrospective long-term study in two terciary reference centers

Objectives: To evaluate the complete response (CR) rate and surgeries performed in patients with rectal adenocarcinoma who underwent neoadjuvant therapy (NT) at Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo and at Hospital São Paulo, in Ribeirão Preto, from January 2007 to December 2017. Methods: We evaluated 166 medical records of patients with locally advanced rectal adenocarcinoma (T3, T4 or N+) who underwent NT. The regimen consisted of performing conventional (2D) or conformational (three-dimensional-3D/ radiotherapy with modulated intensity - IMRT) at a dose of 45-50.4Gy associated with capecitabine 1650mg/m2 or 5-fluorouracil (5FU) and leucovorin (LV). The following variables were analyzed: gender, age, pretreatment stage, radiotherapy, CR index, local and distant recurrence rates. Surgical treatment and complications were also evaluated. Results: The CR index was 28.3%. Patients treated with 3D/IMRT radiotherapy had a higher rate of CR (36.3% x 4.8%; p < 0.001), higher rates of clinical follow-up (21% x 0%; p < 0.001), lower surgery rates (79% x 100%; p < 0.001), higher rates of transanal resection (37.1% x 9.5%; p = 0.001), lower rates of abdominal rectosigmoidectomy (25.8% x 50%; p = 0.007) and lower rates of abdominoperineal resection of the rectum (16.1% x 40.5%; p = 0.002), when compared to patients treated with 2D radiotherapy. Conclusion Modern radiotherapy techniques such as 3D conformal and IMRT, by offering greater adequacy and precision of treatment, could result in better local control and less toxicity in organs at risk, enabling organ preservation strategies and less invasive approaches in selected cases. (AU)

Uso de imágenes KV CBCT del acelerador lineal Halcyon para la planificación de tratamientos de metástasis óseas con intensión paliativa / Use of KV CBCT images from the Halcyon linear accelerator for treatment planning of bone metastases with palliative intent

Las nuevas tecnologías para el tratamiento del cáncer con radiación ionizante tienen especial interés en mejorar la calidad de las imágenes para el posicionamiento adecuado del paciente con sistemas de radioterapia guiada por imagen IGRT. El sistema Halcyon cuenta con imágenes de tomografía computarizada de haz de cono CBCT. Estas imágenes podrían ser una opción para escenarios donde no se cuente con una Tomografía Computarizada CT o el equipo se encuentre en reparación o mantenimiento especialmente para escenarios de intensión paliativa. La diferencia en la distribución de dosis en imágenes CT y CBCT fue analizada en este estudio. Los resultados mostraron diferencias en las unidades Hounsfield UH, aunque no fueron estadísticamente significativas, el volumen irradiado mostro diferencias máximas de 3,92% que no supera el 4% permitido para tratamientos de intensión paliativa. En cuanto a las dosis dispersas al tejido sano la diferencia tampoco supera el 4%. Nuestro estudio mostro que las imágenes CBCT pueden ser una alternativa para el tratamiento de metástasis óseas, sin embargo, estas imágenes todavía no pueden remplazar las imágenes CT utilizadas para el cálculo de dosis en radioterapia

New technologies for the treatment of cancer with ionizing radiation are of particular interest in improving image quality for proper patient positioning with image-guided radiation therapy IGRT systems. IGRT image-guided radiation therapy systems. The Halcyon system features cone beam computed tomography CBCT imaging. These images could be an option for scenarios where a CT scan is not available or the equipment is under repair or maintenance especially for is under repair or maintenance, especially for palliative scenarios. The difference in the The difference in dose distribution in CT and CBCT images was analyzed in this study. The results showed differences in Hounsfield UH units, although not statistically significant, the irradiated volume showed maximum differences of 3.92%, which is the maximum difference of 3.92%. Differences of 3.92%, which does not exceed the 4% allowed for palliative treatments. As for the doses dispersed to healthy tissue the difference does not exceed the 4% allowed for palliative treatments. Our study showed that CBCT imaging can be an alternative for the treatment of metastases. an alternative for the treatment of bone metastases, however, these images cannot yet replace the CT images used for dose calculation. CT images used for dose calculation in radiotherapy

Chondroid syringoma of an upper eyelid tumor: Unusual case report

We present the case report of a 58?year?old man with recurrent chondroid syringoma, which was histopathologically confirmed, who underwent exenteration surgery of the right eye. Furthermore, the patient was receiving postoperative radiation therapy, and presently there is no local and/or distant evidence of disease in the patient

Dosimetric comparison of three?dimensional conformal radiation therapy, intensity?modulated radiation therapy, and volumetric?modulated arc therapy for free?breathing whole?breast irradiation: A planning study

Background: Currently, recommended heart dose constraints are difficult to meet in whole?breast irradiation (WBI) for left?sided breast cancer patients, who cannot be treated with the deep inspiration breath hold. We performed a radiotherapy planning study to establish if the use of intensity?modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) or volumetric?modulated arc therapy (VMAT) allows for better sparing of the heart and its subvolumes than the three?dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D?CRT), and how these attempts affect the dose delivered to the other organs. Methods: A total of 17 left?sided and 10 right?sided consecutive patients treated with free?breathing WBI were retrospectively included. The 3D?CRT, IMRT, and VMAT plans were generated. Several dose杤olume parameters and plan quality indices were compared, separately for the left? and right?sided plans. Results: All the techniques fulfilled the planning objectives. In the left?sided plans, there was no heart or left ventricle dose reduction with IMRT, nor with VMAT; the maximum dose in the left anterior descending coronary artery was reduced with VMAT (P = 0.005); V5 for the contralateral breast, contralateral lung, and total?body increased markedly in VMAT, and for the ipsilateral lung (V5IL) also in IMRT, compared with 3D?CRT (P < 0.001). In the right?sided plans, the V5 values, except for V5IL, did not differ between the three techniques. Conclusions: IMRT and VMAT had a limited heart?sparing benefit in the left?sided free?breathing WBI, at the cost of increased low?dose volumes, measured by V5. The low?dose volumes are not increased by IMRT or VMAT in the right?sided WBI, where heart sparing is not a problem, but the attempts to reduce cardiac doses in the left?sided WBI increase them.

Supracarinal lymph node positivity in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and factors predicting metastasis in supracarinal compartment nodes: Should a total mediastinal node dissection be the standard of care?

Background: Adequate lymphadenectomy in middle? and lower?third esophagus cancer is still a matter of debate. This study aims to find out the extent of histopathological supracarinal lymph nodes positivity rate to establish an adequate lymph node dissection in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cases operated up?front or after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (CT) + radiotherapy (RT) and its short?term oncological outcome. Materials and Methods: After approval from institutional board review, a retrospective study was conducted from April 2017 to September 2019. A total of 76 patients having mid? or lower?third carcinoma esophagus were operated at our institute for partial/total esophagectomy with extended two?field lymph node dissection were followed. Intraoperative nodal stations were harvested separately and lebeled individually according to the Japanese Esophageal Classification and sent for histopathological examination. Results: The patients had an average age of 52 years. Histologically all were squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Forty?four patients received preoperative concurrent RT plus drug therapy, whereas 18 cases were operated up?front. Fourteen patients were operated after palliative treatment (CT/RT). The average total lymph node yield was 22 nodes (range 3�). In 26 patients (34.2%), lymph nodes were positive (N+ disease). Supracarinal nodes were positive in 20 cases (26.31%). The average supracarinal lymph node yield was 10.33 nodes (range 2�). Five patients (6.5%) had only supracarinal lymph nodes positive on histopathological examination. Seventeen patients had a complete pathological response rate (pCR). Conclusion: In cases of mid?third esophageal carcinoma, extended two fields with supracarinal lymphadenectomy is strongly recommended even after the patient has received neoadjuvant treatment, although the same for lower?third/gastroesophageal (GE) junction tumors should be considered.

Postoperative radiotherapy with an electron beam on keloid scar: epidemiological evaluation in a teaching hospital / Radioterapia pós-operatória com feixe de elétrons sobre cicatriz queloideana: avaliação epidemiológica em hospital de ensino

Introduction: Keloids are one of the most aggressive spectrums of healing disorders. They have a unique pathophysiology and multiple specific genetic and cellular factors, which have not yet been fully elucidated. So far, literature reviews have found the influence of genetics, injury site, and ethnicity on the incidence and rate of recurrence. Furthermore, the need to associate an adjuvant method with surgical excision has already been verified, but the best therapy has yet to be defined. Method: A retrospective analysis of medical records was carried out to assess the profile of patients who underwent postoperative radiotherapy with an electron beam to treat keloids at the Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu between 2015 and 2019. Results: Data from 131 patients were evaluated, with 269 keloid scars treated. The average duration of treatment was 51 days, and the number of sessions was 17. White patients were predominant (78%) and women (70%), with surgical incision being the main cause of formation (49%) and ear the most identified location (33%). Women were more likely to complete the proposed treatment (p=0.04), while non-literates completed less than those who had at least completed primary or secondary education (p<0.0001). Conclusion: Postoperative radiotherapy for keloid scars is a well-established treatment in the literature and an important tool for plastic surgeons. Knowing the profile of patients who need this therapy is essential to create methods that improve adherence and results.

Introdução: Os queloides correspondem a um dos espectros mais agressivos dos distúrbios da cicatrização. Possuem fisiopatologia ímpar e múltiplos fatores genéticos e celulares específicos, ainda não totalmente elucidados. Até o momento, revisões literárias encontraram influência da genética, local da lesão e etnia sobre a incidência e taxa de recorrência. Ademais, já foi constatada a necessidade de associação de um método adjuvante com a excisão cirúrgica, mas ainda sem definição da melhor terapia. Método: Realizada uma análise retrospectiva de prontuários para avaliação do perfil dos pacientes submetidos a radioterapia pós-operatória com feixe de elétrons para o tratamento de queloides no Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu, entre 2015 e 2019. Resultados: Foram avaliados os dados de 131 pacientes, com um total de 269 cicatrizes queloideanas tratadas. A média da duração do tratamento foi de 51 dias e do número de sessões, de 17. Houve predominância de pacientes brancos (78%) e de mulheres (70%), sendo incisão cirúrgica a principal causa de formação (49%) e a orelha a localização mais identificada (33%). As mulheres tiveram mais chance de completar o tratamento proposto (p=0,04), enquanto os não alfabetizados completaram menos do que aqueles que tinham pelo menos ensino fundamental ou médio completo (p<0,0001). Conclusão: A radioterapia pós-operatória em cicatrizes queloideanas é um tratamento consagrado na literatura e uma importante ferramenta do cirurgião plástico. Conhecer o perfil dos pacientes que necessitam desta terapia é fundamental para criar métodos que melhorem a adesão e o resultado da mesma.

Controversias en radioterapia adyuvante en cáncer de próstata localizado

La elección del momento más adecuado para realizar radioterapia en el tratamiento del cáncer de próstata es controversial ya que puede ser realizada inmediatamente posterior a la prostatectomía o como tratamiento de rescate ante una recaída. En este artículo, se realiza una búsqueda del tema, se seleccionan los ensayos clínicos con mayor evidencia y se analizan los resultados. Si bien existe beneficio en la radioterapia adyuvante, este resultado no se encuentra en todos los pacientes y sí se asocia a mayor toxicidad genitourinaria tardía, por lo tanto, la clave está en la selección del tratamiento según el paciente específico.

The choice of the most appropriate time to perform radiotherapy in the treatment of prostate cancer is controversial since it can be performed immediately after prostatectomy or as rescue treatment in case of relapse. In this article, a search for the topic is carried out, the clinical trials with the greatest evidence are selected and the results are analyzed. Although there is benefit in adjuvant radiotherapy, this result is not found in all patients and it is associated with greater late genitoutinary toxicity, therefore, the key is in the selection of treatment according to the specific patient.