Prostate volumes defined by magnetic resonance imaging and computerized tomographic scans for three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy. Academic Article uri icon

Overview

abstract

  • PURPOSE: To compare the prostate volumes defined on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and noncontrast computerized tomographic (CT) scans used for three-dimensional (3D) treatment planning. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Ten patients were simulated for treatment using immobilization and a retrograde urethrogram. 3D images were used to compare prostate volumes defined by MRI (4-6 mm thick slices) and CT images (5 mm thick slices). Prostate volumes were calculated in cm(3) using the Scanditronix 3D planning system. MRI/CT images were merged using bony anatomy to define the regions of discrepancy in prostate volumes. RESULTS: The mean prostate volume was 32% larger (range-5-63%) when defined by noncontrast CT compared to MRI. The areas of nonagreement tended to occur in four distinct regions of discrepancy: (a) the posterior portion of the prostate, (b) the posterior-inferior-apical portion of the prostate, (c) the apex due to disagreement between a urethrogram based definition and the location defined by MRI, (d) regions corresponding to the neurovascular bundle. CONCLUSION: There is a tendency to overestimate the prostate volume by noncontrast CT compared to MRI. Awareness of this tendency should allow us to be to more accurately define the prostate during 3-D treatment planning.

publication date

  • July 15, 1996

Research

keywords

  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Prostate
  • Radiotherapy Planning, Computer-Assisted
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed

Identity

Scopus Document Identifier

  • 0030586042

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1016/0360-3016(96)00232-5

PubMed ID

  • 8751410

Additional Document Info

volume

  • 35

issue

  • 5