Clinical Implementational and Site-Specific Workflows for a 1.5T MR-Linac

J Clin Med. 2022 Mar 16;11(6):1662. doi: 10.3390/jcm11061662.

Abstract

MR-guided adaptive radiotherapy (MRgART) provides opportunities to benefit patients through enhanced use of advanced imaging during treatment for many patients with various cancer treatment sites. This novel technology presents many new challenges which vary based on anatomic treatment location, technique, and potential changes of both tumor and normal tissue during treatment. When introducing new treatment sites, considerations regarding appropriate patient selection, treatment planning, immobilization, and plan-adaption criteria must be thoroughly explored to ensure adequate treatments are performed. This paper presents an institution's experience in developing a MRgART program for a 1.5T MR-linac for the first 234 patients. The paper suggests practical treatment workflows and considerations for treating with MRgART at different anatomical sites, including imaging guidelines, patient immobilization, adaptive workflows, and utilization of bolus.

Keywords: Elekta Unity; MRI; MRgART; adaptive radiotherapy; treatment planning.