ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: The objective in this work is to investigate the feasibility of using a new imaging tool called vibro-acoustography (VA) as a means of permanent prostate brachytherapy (PPB) seed localization to facilitate post-implant dosimetry (PID). METHODS AND MATERIALS: Twelve OncoSeed (standard) and eleven EchoSeed (echogenic) dummy seeds were implanted in a human cadaver prostate. Seventeen seeds remained after radical retropubic prostatectomy. VA imaging was conducted on the prostate that was cast in a gel phantom and placed in a tank of degassed water. 2-D magnitude and phase VA image slices were obtained at different depths within the prostate showing location and orientation of the seeds. RESULTS: VA demonstrates that twelve of seventeen (71%) seeds implanted were visible in the VA image, and the remainder were obscured by intra-prostatic calcifications. Moreover, it is shown here that VA is capable of imaging and locating PPB seeds within the prostate independent of seed orientation, and the resulting images are speckle free. CONCLUSION: The results presented in this research show that VA allows seed detection within a human prostate regardless of their orientation, as well as imaging intra-prostatic calcifications.
Subject(s)
Brachytherapy/instrumentation , Elasticity Imaging Techniques/methods , Prostate/diagnostic imaging , Prostate/surgery , Prosthesis Implantation/methods , Feasibility Studies , Humans , Male , Pilot Projects , Reproducibility of Results , Sensitivity and SpecificityABSTRACT
The formation of Peyronie's disease plaques is a process that seems to involve a cascade of genetic, structural and immunologic events. Clinical manifestations include penile deformity and possible erectile dysfunction. Rational strategies have been forthcoming, with both minimally invasive and surgical treatments of Peyronie's disease available. This article reviews and updates current scientific and clinical advances in Peyronie's disease.
