Progress in three-dimensional MRI-guided brachytherapy for cervical cancer / 中华放射肿瘤学杂志

ABSTRACT

Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of death in women with malignancies worldwide.Brachytherapy plays an essential role in the radiation therapy for cervical cancer, and its combination with external beam radiation is indicated for previously untreated or recurrent cervical cancer at various stages without distant metastasis.Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has superior resolution of soft tissue, which allows for accurate delineation of target volume, protects organs at risk (OARs), and thus improves treatment outcomes.In recent years, many studies have demonstrated the feasibility and superiority of three-dimensional MRI-guided brachytherapy for cervical cancer.This article aims to elaborate on relevant MRI techniques, selection of applicators, delineation of target volume and OARs, evaluation of treatment plans, and the clinical effect of three-dimensional MRI-guided brachytherapy.