Erik Bjorn Sviggum MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Phillip Matthew Young MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Kiaran Patrick McGee PhD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Debra Brinkmann PhD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Nadia Nicole Laack MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Current standards of pre-radiation imaging of abdominal and pelvic tumors involve CT for treatment planning. MRI has better tissue contrast for many applications and can better define target tumor volume and surrounding at-risk tissues. This is particularly important given the emergence of proton-beam therapy. Abdominal MRI has several challenges that need to be met for quality radiation planning, including motion (from both breathing and organ motion), MRI artifacts, and how to accurately measure treatment response. Our institution has developed a protocol containing sequences of sufficient speed to accurately delineate tumor size and treatment response.

Introduction and current standards. Advantages of MRI over CT for characterization of tumor and monitoring response. Need for improved tumor delineation for planning proton beam therapies. Challenges involved with the use of MRI for tumors in the abdomen and pelvis: organ motion, breath holding, table positioning. Building a protocol that accurately demonstrates tumor size/extent and response to therapy while limiting time spent scanning and reproducing position used during therapy.

http://abstract.rsna.org/uploads/2014/14002368/14002368_xcyn.pdf

Sviggum, E, Young, P, McGee, K, Brinkmann, D, Laack, N, Pre-Radiation Therapy MRI for Abdominal and Pelvic Tumors: Advantages and Challenges.  Radiological Society of North America 2014 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, - ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2014/14002368.html