Abstract
Background/Aim: We aimed to investigate the dosimetric effects of a spacer placed between the pancreas and surrounding gastrointestinal structures in intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) planning to provide more effective radiation therapy for locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC). Patients and Methods: Treatment planning was performed for six patients with LAPC based on computed tomography images without spacers and with 5-mm or 10-mm spacers virtually inserted under the supervision of a hepatobiliary pancreatic surgeon. The prescription dose was 63 Gy in 28 fractions. Results: With the exception of one case of pancreatic head cancer, planning target volume receiving ≥95% of the prescribed dose (PTV V95) was achieved by 90% or more by inserting a spacer, and by 95% or more in all 3 cases of pancreatic body and tail cancer by inserting a 10-mm spacer. Conclusion: IMRT with appropriate spacer placement may help provide high-dose treatment for LAPC and improve associated patient outcomes.
- Received December 7, 2020.
- Revision received December 16, 2020.
- Accepted December 17, 2020.
- Copyright© 2021, International Institute of Anticancer Research (Dr. George J. Delinasios), All rights reserved.
This article requires a subscription to view the full text. If you have a subscription you may use the login form below to view the article. Access to this article can also be purchased.