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PURPOSE: We provide for the first time a comprehensive situational diagnosis and propose an artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted nationwide plan of implementation, attending the most urgent needs. METHODS: Baseline information was collected from open-source databases of the Peruvian Government. Data on cancer incidence from the Health Authorities and GLOBOCAN were collected and compared. The existing external-beam radiotherapy (EBRT) devices and brachytherapy (BT) units were identified and information on their obsolescence was additionally collected. The ten most common cancer entities with RT indication were considered for the analysis. Utilizing open-source softwares, population clusters based on density, cancer incidence, geographic distribution, existing facilities able to be implemented with radiotherapy and travel times for patients were defined. A coding for identifying the best possible locations with AI was developed, keeping the allocation of resources to the minimum possible. A projection until 2030 on required resources was additionally elaborated. RESULTS: As of 2023 eight additional EBRT and seven BT devices were needed to cover the existing demand. The artificial-intelligence algorithm yielded the regions where these resources should be primarily allocated. An increase in demand of approximately 22% is expected until 2030, which translates into additional 23 EBRT and 16 BT devices, considering the replacement of obsolete units until then. CONCLUSION: Increased investment pace is required to cover the existing RT demand in Peru. This AI-assisted analysis might help prioritize allocation of resources. The code employed in this work will be made publicly available, so this method could be replicated in other developing economies.

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Objective. To estimate dose rates delivered by using radioactive198Au nanoparticles for prostate cancer nanobrachytherapy, identifying contribution by photons and electrons emmited from the source.Approach. Utilizingin silicomodels, two different anatomical representations were compared: a mathematical model and a unstructured mesh model based on the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) Publication 145 phantom. Dose rates by activity were calculated to the tumor and nearby healthy tissues, including healthy prostate tissue, urinary bladder wall and rectum, using Monte Carlo code MCNP6.2.Main results. Results indicate that both models provide dose rate estimates within the same order of magnitude, with the mathematical model overestimating doses to the prostate and bladder by approximately 20% compared to the unstructured mesh model. The discrepancies for the tumor and rectum were below 4%. Photons emmited from the source were defined as the primary contributors to dose to other organs, while 97.9% of the dose to the tumor was due to electrons emmited from the source.Significance. Our findings emphasize the importance of model selection in dosimetry, particularly the advantages of using realistic anatomical phantoms for accurate dose calculations. The study demonstrates the feasibility and effectiveness of198Au nanoparticles in achieving high dose concentrations in tumor regions while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. Beta emissions were found to be predominantly responsible for tumor dose delivery, reinforcing the potential of198Au nanoparticles in localized radiation therapy. We advocate for using realistic body phantoms in further research to enhance reliability in dosimetry for nanobrachytherapy, as the field still lacks dedicated protocols.

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BACKGROUND: Locally advanced cervical cancer is treated with chemoradiotherapy (standard of care), but many patients still relapse and die from metastatic disease. We investigated chemoradiotherapy with or without induction chemotherapy to determine whether induction chemotherapy improves both progression-free survival and overall survival. METHODS: The INTERLACE trial was a multicentre, randomised phase 3 trial done at 32 medical centres in Brazil, India, Italy, Mexico, and the UK. Adults (aged ≥18 years) with locally advanced cervical cancer (FIGO 2008 stage IB1 disease with nodal involvement, or stage IB2, IIA, IIB, IIIB, or IVA disease) were randomly assigned (1:1), by minimisation, using a central electronic system, to standard cisplatin-based chemoradiotherapy (once-a-week intravenous cisplatin 40 mg/m2 for 5 weeks with 45·0-50·4 Gy external beam radiotherapy delivered in 20-28 fractions plus brachytherapy to achieve a minimum total 2 Gy equivalent dose of 78-86 Gy) alone or induction chemotherapy (once-a-week intravenous carboplatin area under the receiver operator curve 2 and paclitaxel 80 mg/m2 for 6 weeks) followed by standard cisplatin-based chemoradiotherapy. Stratification factors were recruiting site, stage, nodal status, three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy or intensity modulated radiotherapy, age, tumour size, and histology (squamous vs non-squamous). Primary endpoints were progression-free survival and overall survival within the intention-to-treat population. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01566240, and EUDRACT, 2011-001300-35. FINDINGS: Between Nov 8, 2012, and Nov 17, 2022, 500 eligible patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to the chemoradiotherapy alone group (n=250) or the induction chemotherapy with chemoradiotherapy group. Of 500 patients, 354 (70%) had stage IIB disease and 56 (11%) stage IIIB disease. Pelvic lymph nodes were positive in 215 (43%) patients. 230 (92%) patients who received induction chemotherapy had at least five cycles. Median interval between induction chemotherapy and chemoradiotherapy was 7 days. Four or more cycles of cisplatin were given to 212 (85%) participants in the induction chemotherapy with chemoradiotherapy group and to 224 (90%) of participants in the chemoradiotherapy alone group. 462 (92%) participants received external beam radiotherapy and brachytherapy with a median overall treatment time of 45 days. After a median follow-up of 67 months, 5-year progression-free survival rates were 72% in the induction chemotherapy with chemoradiotherapy group and 64% in the chemoradiotherapy alone group with a hazard ratio (HR) of 0·65 (95% CI 0·46-0·91, p=0·013). 5-year overall survival rates were 80% in the induction chemotherapy with chemoradiotherapy group and 72% in the chemoradiotherapy alone group, with an HR of 0·60 (95% CI 0·40-0·91, p=0·015). Grade 3 or greater adverse events were reported in 147 (59%) of 250 individuals in the induction chemotherapy with chemoradiotherapy group versus 120 (48%) of 250 individuals in the chemoradiotherapy alone group. INTERPRETATION: Short-course induction chemotherapy followed by chemoradiotherapy significantly improves survival of patients with locally advanced cervical cancer. FUNDING: Cancer Research UK and University College London-University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre.

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INTRODUCTION: Primary uveal melanoma is the most common intraocular malignancy in adults. Almost 50% of patients die from metastatic disease despite successful local treatment. The objective was to estimate the incidence of metastasis and survival in patients with primary uveal melanoma. The second objective was to determine the independent predictors of metastasis. METHODS: A retrospective, observational, analytical study was carried out using an ambidirectional cohort design in patients from Buenos Aires City between January 2003 to January 2020. Patients with uveal melanoma and potential clinical predictors of metastasis were identified. The density of incidence of metastasis and mortality were determined, and survival curves were analyzed (Kaplan Meir) A univariate and multivariate analysis using Cox proportional hazard models was performed. RESULTS: 143 patients (mean age 57 SD 16) were included. The median thickness was 6.2 mm SD 3.4 mm, the mean tumor diameter was 12.6 mm (SD 3.8). 69.9% of the patients underwent conservative treatment with brachytherapy while 25.9% underwent enucleation. 19.6% presented metastasis, the median time to the event was 26.5 months. The specific mortality due to melanoma was 17.5%. Diameter greater than 12 mm and extension were predictor variables of metastasis in a multivariable model. CONCLUSION: Although the median time to the event (metastasis) is 26.5 moths, it could occur many years after local oncological effective treatment. An early diagnosis would allow finding smaller tumors and would improve the prognosis.

Introducción: El melanoma uveal primario es el tumor intraocular maligno más frecuente del adulto. Cerca del 50% de los pacientes fallecen de enfermedad metastásica, a pesar de un tratamiento local exitoso. El objetivo primario fue estimar la incidencia de metástasis y sobrevida en los pacientes con melanoma uveal primario. Como objetivo secundario se planteó determinar los predictores independientes de metástasis. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio analítico observacional, retrospectivo mediante un diseño de cohorte ambidireccional entre 2003 y 2020 en CABA, en pacientes con melanoma uveal primario y los potenciales factores clínicos predictores de metástasis. Se determinó la densidad de incidencia de metástasis, la mortalidad, y se analizaron las curvas de sobrevida (Kaplan-Meier). Se realizó un análisis uni y multivariado utilizando el modelo de riesgos proporcionales de Cox. Resultados: De los 143 pacientes (edad promedio 57, DS 16), la mediana del espesor fue de 6. 2 mm DS 3.4, la media del diámetro tumoral fue de 12.6 mm (DS 3.8). Un 69.9% realizó tratamiento conservador con braquiterapia, un 25.9% enucleación. Un 19.6% presentaron metástasis (mediana de tiempo al evento: 26.5 meses). La mortalidad específica por melanoma fue de 17.5%. El diámetro mayor a 12 mm y la extensión fueron variables predictoras de metástasis en el modelo multivariado. Conclusión: Si bien la mediana del tiempo al evento metástasis fue de 26.5 meses, puede presentarse muchos años después de un tratamiento local oncológicamente eficaz. Un diagnóstico precoz permitiría pesquisar tumores más pequeños y mejoraría el pronóstico.

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Stereotactic Brachytherapy Iodine-125 (SBT I-125) has been investigated by some studies for the treatment of lowgrade gliomas. We performed a meta-analysis to assess the efficacy and safety of SBT I-125 Brachytherapy for treatment of patients with Low-Grade Gliomas. PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, and EMBASE databases were searched for randomized and observational studies. This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted according to the Cochrane Collaboration and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statement guidelines. We used relative risk (RR) with 95% confidence intervals and random effects model to compare the effects of I-125 SBT treatment on the interest outcomes. We evaluated heterogeneity using I2 statistics; we considered heterogeneity to be significant if the p-value was less than 0.05 and I2 was higher than 35%. We performed statistical analysis using the software R (version 4.2.3). A total of 20 studies with a cohort of 988 patients with low grade gliomas who received SBT I-125 as a treatment option. The pooled analysis evidenced: (1) Complication rate of 10% (95% CI: 7-12%; I² = 60%); (2) 5-year PFS of 66% (99% CI: 45-86%; I²= 98%); (3) 10-year PFS was 66% (99% CI: 45-86%; I²= 98%); (4) Malignant transformation rate of 26% (95% CI: 8-45%; I²=0); (5) Mortality of 33% (95% CI: 15-51%; I² = 0%). Our systematic review and meta-analysis of SBT I-125 for low-grade gliomas have revealed significant concerns regarding its safety and efficacy. Despite a proportion of patients remaining progression-free, elevated rates of complications and mortality cast doubt on the intervention's reliability. Future research should prioritize long-term follow-up studies, standardized protocols, and comparative effectiveness research.

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INTRODUCTION: The assessment of quality of life (QoL) in women with cervical cancer is crucial due to the profound changes they undergo during and after treatment. Often, the significance of sexual factors is underestimated, likely due to societal taboos surrounding such discussions. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the long-term QoL outcomes, particularly focusing on sexuality, among three therapeutic approaches for cervical cancer: chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and brachytherapy; isolated hysterectomy; and hysterectomy combined with radiotherapy. METHODS: Conducted from November 2022 to July 2023, this cross-sectional study involved 131 cervical cancer patients. Their QoL was assessed using the MDASI, FACIT-Cx, and risk factor questionnaires. Results were compared across the three treatment groups, revealing notable differences. RESULTS: Patients undergoing chemo/radio/brachytherapy showed significantly lower QoL scores compared to those undergoing isolated hysterectomy. This was evident in reduced scores across FACIT-Cx subscales for physical well-being, specific concerns, and FACIT-total (p < 0.05). The MDASI results similarly indicated greater symptoms and interference in daily activities for the chemo/radio/brachytherapy group. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, isolated hysterectomy, demonstrated superior QoL outcomes compared to chemo/radio/brachytherapy. Furthermore, the study underscored the importance of addressing sexual concerns in QoL assessments of cervical cancer survivors, emphasizing the need for comprehensive care to enhance overall well-being posttreatment.

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Purpose. To evaluate the feasibility of use of an 1.5 T magnetic resonance (MR)-linear accelerator MR-linac for imaging in gynaecologic high-dose-rate (HDR) brachytherapy.Method. Commissioning measurements for MR images quality control, geometric distortion, dwell position accuracy, applicator reconstruction and end-to-end test for a tandem-and-ring applicator were performed following the recommendations of American Brachytherapy Society, International Commission on Radiation Units and Measurements and Report of the Brachytherapy Working Group of the Spanish Society of Medical Physics. The values for MR-based IGABT were compared to the corresponding values with computed tomography (CT).Results. Measured distorsions for the MR images were less than 0.50 mm compared to the CT images. The differences between 3D displacements for all dwell positions were 0.66 mm and 0.62 mm for the tandem and ring, respectively. The maximum difference is 0.64 mm for the distances from the applicator tip obtained using the films. The CT and MR dose differences for the right and left 'A' points were 0.9% and -0.7%, respectively. Similar results were observed in terms of dose distribution for CT and Mr The gamma passing rate was 99.3% and 99.5%, respectively.Conclusion. The use of MR images from an MR-linac used in a radiotherapy service for gynaecological brachytherapy was proved to be feasible, safe and precise as the geometrical differences were less than 1 mm, and the dosimetric differences were less than 1% when comparing to the use of CT images for the same purpose.

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Introduction: To prevent vaginal stenosis, the use of a vaginal dilator is recommended. Objective: To analyze sociodemographic data, gynecological conditions and the use of vaginal dilator after pelvic brachytherapy. Materials and Methods: Cross-sectional, retrospective study, period 2016-2020, collected between October/2020 and February /2021, from records of women with gynecological cancer treated with brachytherapy at the Centro de Pesquisa Oncológicas (Brazil). The variables included sociodemographic data and gynecological conditions in following the treatment. In the analysis, descriptive statistics, chi-squaretest, Fisher's exact test and Mann-Whitney test were applied. Results: 519 patients records were included in the investigation; the analyzes showed significant associations between the topography and staging (p<0.001), education (p=0.004) and age (p<0.001); the comparison between the distribution of the ionizing radiation dose showed a difference with the continued sexual relationship category (p=0.006); the comparison between the proportions of continued sexual relationship and using a vaginal dilator was significant (p<0.001); 49.10% (131) adhered to the use of vaginal dilator; 24.50% (127) are not sexually active and do not adhere to the use of the dilator. Discussion: It is evident that social and gynecological conditions interfere with the presence of vaginal stenosis and the use of a vaginal dilator after pelvic brachytherapy. Conclusions: The adherence found in the use of dilator affirms the contributions and the need for health education by nurses and physicaltherapists during and following the treatment.

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INTRODUCTION: Little evidence exists on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemics on the compliance with cervical cancer treatment. METHODS: We carried out a population-based, before-and-after retrospective cohort study of all cervical cancer patients diagnosed in the Jujuy province public health sector (n=140), Argentina, between 2017 and 2020. Patients diagnosed in 2020 were considered exposed to the COVID-19 pandemic (n=21). We used multivariable logistic regression to assess the relationship between the pandemics and compliance with treatment. We also measured treatment duration for women who were indicated brachytherapy and time to treatment initiation by stage. RESULTS: Compared with women diagnosed in 2017-2019 the odds ratio of non-complying with treatment was 1.77 (95%CI 0.59-5.81; p = 0.32) for women diagnosed during 2020. An increased risk of non-compliance was found in patients with prescribed brachytherapy (OR 4.14. 95%CI 1.95-9.11; p < 0.001). Median treatment duration for women with prescribed brachytherapy was 12.8 and 15.7 weeks in 2017-2019 vs. 2020 (p = 0.33); median time to treatment initiation for women with early-stage disease was 9 and 5 weeks during 2017-2019 and 2020 respectively (p = 0.06), vs 7.2 and 9 weeks in 2017-2019 and 2020 respectively (p = 0.36) for patients with stages IIB+ disease. CONCLUSIONS: Low access to brachytherapy was a major determinant of non-compliance. irrespective of the effect of the pandemics.

Introducción: Hay escasa evidencia sobre el impacto de la pandemia de COVID-19 en el cumplimiento del tratamiento de cáncer cervicouterino. Métodos: Se llevó a cabo un estudio poblacional de cohorte retrospectivo. ­antes/después­ de las pacientes con cáncer cervicouterino diagnosticadas en establecimientos públicos de la provincia de Jujuy (n = 140), entre 2017 y 2020. Las pacientes diagnosticadas en 2020 se consideraron expuestas a la pandemia (n = 21). Utilizamos la regresión logística multivariada para analizar la asociación entre pandemia y cumplimiento del tratamiento de cáncer. Además, se midió la duración del tratamiento en aquellas con indicación de braquiterapia y el tiempo hasta el inicio al tratamiento según estadio. Resultados: Comparadas con las mujeres diagnosticadas en 2017-2019 el odds ratio de incumplimiento del tratamiento fue de 1.77 (IC95% 0.59-5.81; p = 0.32) para las diagnosticadas durante 2020. Se encontró un mayor riesgo de incumplimiento en pacientes con indicación de braquiterapia (OR 4.14; IC 95%:1.95-9.11; p < 0.001). La mediana de duración del tratamiento para aquellas con indicación de braquiterapia fue de 12.8 y 15.7 semanas en 2017-2019 y 2020 respectivamente (p = 0.33). La mediana de tiempo hasta el inicio del tratamiento para pacientes con enfermedad en estadio temprano fue de 9 y 5 semanas durante 2017-2019 y 2020 respectivamente (p = 0.06), versus una mediana de 7.2 y 9 semanas en 2017-2019 y 2020 respectivamente (p=0.36) para las pacientes con enfermedad en estadio IIB+. Conclusiones: El bajo acceso a la braquiterapia fue un factor determinante de incumplimiento de tratamiento de cáncer cervicouterino, independientemente del efecto de la pandemia.

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BACKGROUND: Non-melanoma skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer and one of the main approaches is brachytherapy. For small lesions, the treatment of this cancer with brachytherapy can be done with two commercial applicators, one of these is the Large Field Valencia Applicators (LFVA). PURPOSE: The aim of this study is to test the capabilities of the LFVA to use clinically 60Co sources instead of the 192Ir ones. This study was designed for the same dwell positions and weights for both sources. METHODS: The Penelope Monte Carlo code was used to evaluate dose distribution in a water phantom when a 60Co source is considered. The LFVA design and the optimized dwell weights reported for the case of 192Ir are maintained with the only exception of the dwell weight of the central position, that was increased. 2D dose distributions, field flatness, symmetry and the leakage dose distribution around the applicator were calculated. RESULTS: When comparing the dose distributions of both sources, field flatness and symmetry remain unchanged. The only evident difference is an increase of the penumbra regions for all depths when using the 60Co source. Regarding leakage, the maximum dose within the air volume surrounding the applicator is in the order of 20% of the prescription dose for the 60Co source, but it decreases to less than 5% at about 1 cm distance. CONCLUSIONS: Flatness and symmetry remains unaltered as compared with 192Ir sources, while an increase in leakage has been observed. This proves the feasibility of using the LFVA in a larger range of clinical applications.

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The aim of this study was to use computer simulation to analyze the impact of the aluminum fixing support on the Reference Air Kerma (RAK), a physical quantity obtained in a calibration system that was experimentally developed in the Laboratory of Radiological Sciences of the University of the State of Rio de Janeiro (LCR-UERJ). Correction factors due to scattered radiation and the geometry of the192Ir sources were also sought to be determined. The computational simulation was validated by comparing some parameters of the experimental results with the computational results. These parameters were: verification of the inverse square law of distance, determination of (RAKR), analysis of the source spectrum with and without encapsulation, and the sensitivity curve of the Sourcecheck 4PI ionization chamber response, as a function of the distance from the source along the axial axis, using the microSelectron-v2 (mSv2) and GammaMedplus (GMp) sources. Kerma was determined by activity in the Reference air, with calculated values of 1.725 × 10-3U. Bq-1and 1.710 × 10-3U. Bq-1for the ionization chamber NE 2571 and TN 30001, respectively. The expanded uncertainty for these values was 0.932% and 0.919%, respectively, for a coverage factor (k = 2). The correction factor due to the influence of the aluminum fixing support for measurements at 1 cm and 10 cm from the source was 0.978 and 0.969, respectively. The geometric correction factor of the sources was ksg= 1.005 with an expanded uncertainty of 0.7% for a coverage factor (k = 2). This value has a difference of approximately 0.2% compared to the experimental values.

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BACKGROUND: Managing residual and recurrent craniopharyngioma effectively is crucial for improving patient outcomes. This study evaluates the combined use of gamma knife and phosphorus-32 brachytherapy, offering insights into alternative, less invasive treatment strategies. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 97 patients treated from 2010 to 2016 for residual and recurrent craniopharyngioma using gamma knife and phosphorus-32 brachytherapy. We classified these patients into three groups: superficial solid (Group A), simple cystic (Group B), and mixed cystic-solid (Group C). We assessed the treatment's effectiveness by the tumor control rates and evaluated safety by monitoring vision, endocrine function improvements, and complication rates. RESULTS: The treatment achieved complete and adequate control rates of 49.5% and 87.6%, respectively. We observed improvements in vision or visual fields in 55.1% of the patients. The morbidity rate was 15.5%. The study found no significant differences in tumor control rates among the various lesion types. CONCLUSION: The combination of gamma knife and phosphorus-32 brachytherapy presents a viable, minimally invasive alternative for treating residual and recurrent craniopharyngioma. It offers high tumor control and functional improvement rates, suggesting its potential as a preferred strategy in some instances.

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INTRODUCTION: This literature review and exploratory network meta-analysis (NMA) aimed to compare the clinical effectiveness and tolerability of selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) using yttrium-90 (Y-90) resin microspheres, regorafenib (REG), trifluridine-tipiracil (TFD/TPI), and best supportive care (BSC) in adult patients with chemotherapy-refractory or chemotherapy-intolerant metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). METHODS: In light of recently published data, the literature was searched to complement and update a review published in 2018. Studies up to December 2022 comparing two or more of the treatments and reporting overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), or incidence of adverse events (AE) were included. The NMA compared hazard ratios (HRs) for OS and PFS using Markov chain Monte Carlo techniques. RESULTS: Fifteen studies were included, with eight studies added (none addressing SIRT). All active treatments improved OS in relation to BSC. SIRT had the longest OS among all treatments, although without statistically significant differences (HR [95% credible interval] for SIRT, 0.48 [0.27, 0.87]; TFD/TPI, 0.62 [0.46, 0.83]; REG, 0.78 [0.57, 1.05]) in a fixed effects model. Information regarding SIRT was insufficient for PFS analysis, and TFD/TPI was the best intervention (HR 2.26 [1.6, 3.18]). One SIRT study reported radioembolization-induced liver disease in > 10% of the sample; this was symptomatically managed. Non-haematological AEs (hand-foot skin reaction, fatigue, diarrhoea, hypertension, rash or desquamation) were more common with REG, while haematological events (neutropoenia, leukopenia, and anaemia) were more common with TFD/TPI. CONCLUSION: Current evidence supports SIRT treatment in patients with chemotherapy-refractory or chemotherapy-intolerant mCRC compared to newer oral agents, with comparable OS and low incidence of AEs.

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PURPOSE: Brachytherapy (BT) has been used for many years for disease control in tumours of the head and neck area (H&N). It is currently performed with high dose rate (HDR) or pulsed dose rate (PDR), but its use has been reduced due to the implementation of new non-invasive external beam radiotherapy techniques such as intensity modulation (IMRT) and volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) and the improvement of surgical techniques. METHODS: The Spanish Brachytherapy Group (GEB) has carried out a survey to find out the number of centres in Spain that continue to use BT in H&N and its indications and expectations for the future. RESULTS: The results were presented at the XX GEB Consensus Meeting held on October 21, 2022, in Valencia (Spain) and it was confirmed that, although there are fewer and fewer centres that use BT in H&N, there are still units with extensive experience in this technique that should be positioned as referral centres. CONCLUSION: It is necessary to carry out continuous work with other specialities involved, such as H&N surgeons, and other radiation oncologists, to improve the training of residents, both oncologists and medical physicists.

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PURPOSE: Local recurrence of prostate cancer after low-dose rate brachytherapy is a clinical problem with limited salvage treatment options. This prospective study evaluated the tolerability and outcome of salvage external beam radiation therapy (S-EBRT) for locally recurrent prostate cancer after primary low-dose rate prostate brachytherapy (LDR-BT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Between October 2012 and 2022, 18 patients with biopsy-proven locally recurrent prostate cancer after primary LDR-BT and received S-EBRT. We evaluated biochemical failure (BF), overall survival (OS) and acute/late gastrointestinal and urinary toxicities (CTCAE v5.0 or CTCAE v4, only before 2017). RESULTS: Median follow-up was 32 months (range, 5-124). The median age was at S-EBRT 68 years (range 59-79). 34% (6/18) were low risk, 44% (8/18) intermediate risk, 5% (1/18) high risk, and 17% (3/18) not specified. All patients were treated with IMRT/VMAT and received 60 Gy (2.5 Gy/fraction) to the prostate and 40% (7/18) 55.2 Gy (2,3 Gy/fx) to the seminal vesicles. 56% received ADT The 3-year OS and biochemical relapse-free survival after S-EBRT were 100% and 89%, respectively, with a median PSA nadir 0,035 ng/mL (0,01-0,34). Acute cystitis was present in 72% (13/18) of patients (27% of Grade > 2). Urethritis was present in 78% (14/18) patients (16% of cases Grade > 3), and acute rectitis occurred in 22% (4/18) of patients (no cases Grade > 3). CONCLUSIONS: Our data suggest that the treatment of locally recurrent prostate cancer with S-EBRT could provide adequate disease control safely and be used as an additional treatment in the natural history of prostate cancer patients. However, the results are still early and the sample is small; larger studies with longer follow-up would be mandatory.

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PURPOSE: Partial breast irradiation (PBI) and intraoperative radiation (IORT) represent alternatives to whole breast irradiation (WBI) following breast conserving surgery. However, data is mixed regarding outcomes. We therefore performed a pooled analysis of Kaplan-Meier-derived patient data from randomized trials to evaluate the hypothesis that PBI and IORT have comparable long-term rates of ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence as WBI. METHODS: In February, 2023, PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Central were systematically searched for randomized phase 3 trials of early-stage breast cancer patients undergoing breast-conserving surgery with PBI or IORT as compared to WBI. Time-to-event outcomes of interest included ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence (IBTR), overall survival (OS) and distant disease-free survival (DDFS). Statistical analysis was performed with R Statistical Software. RESULTS: Eleven randomized trials comprising 15,460 patients were included; 7,675 (49.6%) patients were treated with standard or moderately hypofractionated WBI, 5,413 (35%) with PBI and 2,372 (15.3%) with IORT. Median follow-up was 9 years. PBI demonstrated comparable IBTR risk compared with WBI (HR 1.20; 95% CI 0.95-1.52; p = 0.12) with no differences in OS (HR 1.02; 95% CI 0.90-1.16; p = 0.70) or DDFS (HR 1.15; 95% CI 0.81-1.64; p = 0.43). In contrast, patients treated with IORT had a higher IBTR risk (HR 1.46; 95% CI 1.23-1.72; p < 0.01) compared with WBI with no difference in OS (HR 0.98; 95% CI 0.84-1.14; p = 0.81) or DDFS (HR 0.91; 95% CI 0.76-1.09; p = 0.31). CONCLUSION: For patients with early-stage breast cancer following breast-conserving surgery, PBI demonstrated no difference in IBTR as compared to WBI while IORT was inferior to WBI with respect to IBTR.

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Introdução: A estenose vaginal pode ocorrer após a braquiterapia pélvica, levando a disfunções sexuais que dificultam ou impossibilitam os exames ginecológicos de seguimento oncológico. Objetivo: Avaliar as medidas de prevenção de estenose vaginal pós-braquiterapia para cânceres ginecológicos em centros de radioterapia do Brasil. Método: Estudo observacional transversal com coleta de dados entre junho e dezembro de 2022, por meio de questionário via Google Forms, enviado por e-mail aos serviços públicos, filantrópicos e privados de radioterapia no Brasil. Resultados: Obteve-se um total de 43 respostas, em que 34 (79%) instituições relataram realizar a braquiterapia pélvica e 33 (77%), orientar as pacientes quanto à prevenção de estenose. As orientações ministradas foram o uso de dilatadores vaginais (32-97%), estímulo à atividade sexual com penetração (27-82%), fisioterapia pélvica (22-66%) e uso de soluções tópicas (16-48%). Na maioria dos centros de radioterapia, a orientação ocorre na primeira consulta da radioterapia, sendo a indicação mais frequente o uso de dilatadores, que pode ser iniciado duas semanas após o término da braquiterapia, prosseguindo por mais de 36 meses e sem interrupção de uso, três vezes por semana, uma vez ao dia, de 10 a 15 minutos. Conclusão: Majoritariamente, os serviços de radioterapia do Brasil que realizam braquiterapia e que participaram do estudo fornecem às pacientes orientações sobre prevenção de estenose vaginal, sendo o uso de dilatadores vaginais a medida mais utilizada, além de estímulo à atividade sexual com penetração, uso de soluções tópicas e fisioterapia pélvica.

Introduction: Vaginal stenosis can occur after pelvic brachytherapy, leading to sexual dysfunction that makes gynecological examinations for cancer follow-up difficult or impossible. Objective: To evaluate measures to prevent vaginal stenosis after brachytherapy for gynecological cancers in radiotherapy centers in Brazil. Method: Observational cross-sectional study with data collection between June and December 2022, through a Google Forms questionnaire sent to public, philanthropic and private radiotherapy services in Brazil by e-mail. Results: A total of 43 responses were obtained, where 34 (79%) institutions reported performing pelvic brachytherapy and 33 (77%) reported advising patients on stenosis prevention. The main guidelines provided were the use of vaginal dilators (32-97%), stimulation of sexual activity with penetration (27-82%), pelvic physiotherapy (22-66%) and use of topical solutions (16-48%). In most radiotherapy centers, guidance is given at the first radiotherapy appointment, with the most frequent indication being the use of dilators, starting two weeks after the end of brachytherapy, continuing for more than 36 months, without discontinuation, three times a week, once a day, for 10 to 15 minutes. Conclusion: Most radiotherapy services in Brazil that carry out brachytherapy and took part in the study provide patients with guidance on preventing vaginal stenosis and the most common measure is use of vaginal dilators, in addition to stimulation of sexual activity with penetration, use of topical solutions and pelvic physiotherapy.

Introducción: La estenosis vaginal puede ocurrir después de la braquiterapia pélvica, lo que lleva a la disfunción sexual que dificulta o imposibilita los exámenes ginecológicos para el seguimiento del cáncer. Objetivo: Evaluar las medidas de prevención de la estenosis vaginal después de la braquiterapia para cánceres ginecológicos en centros de radioterapia en el Brasil. Método:Estudio observacional transversal con obtención de datos, entre junio y diciembre de 2022, mediante un cuestionario a través de Google Forms, enviado por correo electrónico a los servicios de radioterapia públicos, filantrópicos y privados del Brasil. Resultados: Se obtuvo un total de 43 respuestas, donde 34 (79%) instituciones informaron realizar braquiterapia pélvica y 33 (77%) informaron asesorar a los pacientes sobre la prevención de estenosis. Entre las pautas dadas encontramos el uso de dilatadores vaginales (32-97%), estimulación de la actividad sexual con penetración (27-82%), fisioterapia pélvica (22-66%) y uso de soluciones tópicas (16-48%). En la mayoría de los centros de radioterapia, la orientación se da en la primera cita de radioterapia, siendo la indicación más frecuente el uso de dilatadores a partir de dos semanas después del final de la braquiterapia, mantenidos durante más de 36 meses y sin límite de interrupción de su uso, tres veces por semana, una vez al día, durante 10 a 15 minutos. Conclusión: La mayoría de los servicios de radioterapia de Brasil que realizan braquiterapia y participaron en el estudio orientan a las pacientes sobre la prevención de la estenosis vaginal, siendo el uso de dilatadores vaginales la medida más utilizada. El fomento de la actividad sexual con penetración, el uso de soluciones tópicas y la fisioterapia pélvica también son medidas recomendadas.

RESUMO

BACKGROUND: The demand for radiotherapy in Brazil is unfulfilled, and the scarcity of data on the national network hampers the development of effective policies. We aimed to evaluate the current situation, estimate demands and requirements, and provide an action plan to ensure access to radiotherapy for those in need by 2030. METHODS: The Brazilian Society for Radiation Oncology created a task force (RT2030) including physicians, medical physicists, policy makers, patient advocates, and suppliers, all of whom were major stakeholders involved in Brazilian radiotherapy care. The group was further divided into seven working groups to address themes associated with radiotherapy care in Brazil. From March 1, 2019, to Aug 3, 2020, there were monthly meetings between the group's leaders and the Central Committee and six general meetings. First, a comprehensive search of all different national databases was done to identify all radiotherapy centres. Questionnaires evaluating radiotherapy infrastructure and human resources and assing the availability, distribution, capacity, and workload of resources were created and sent to the radioprotection supervisor of each centre. Results were analysed nationally and across the country's regions and health-care systems. A pre-planned review of available databases was done to gather data on active radiation oncology centres and the distribution of radiotherapy machines (linear accelerators [LINACs]) across Brazil. We used national population and cancer incidence projections, recommended radiotherapy usage from the medical literature, and national working patterns to project radiotherapy demands in 2030. An action plan was established with suggestions to address the gaps and meet the demands. FINDINGS: The database search yielded 279 centres with an active radiotherapy registry. After applying predefined exclusion criteria, 263 centres were identified that provided external beam radiotherapy machines with or without brachytherapy. All 263 operational centres answered the questionnaires sent on Dec 9, 2019, which were then returned between Jan 1 and June 30, 2020. There were 409 therapy machines, 646 radiation oncologists, 533 physicists, and 230 989 patients undergoing radiotherapy (150 628 [65·2%] in the public health-care system and 80 937 [35·0%] in private). The mean annual occupation rate was 566 patients per treatment machine (SD 250). The number of residents per treatment machine ranged from 258 333 to 1 800 000. Technology availability varied considerably among regions and systems. In 2030, 639 994 new cancer cases are expected, which will require 332 797 radiotherapy courses. Therefore, 530 LINACs, 1079 radiation oncologists, and 1060 medical physicists will be needed. INTERPRETATION: The expected increase in cancer incidence in the coming years will probably increase the disparities in cancer care and the burden for Brazilian patients. We provide a roadmap of the current situation and the particularities of the Brazilian radiotherapy network, which can serve as a starting point for cancer policy planning to improve this scenario. FUNDING: Accuray, BRAINLAB, Elekta, IBA, ONE medical solution, SUN NUCLEAR corporation, VARIAN, and ZIGMA.

RESUMO

OBJECTIVE: to construct and validate an educational booklet on high dose rate gynecological brachytherapy (HDR) for women with gynecologic cancer. METHODS: a methodological study, with the construction and validity of a booklet based on the Doak, Doak and Root theoretical-methodological framework. Content and appearance validity was guided by the Delphi technique, by 11 judges, selected using Jasper's criteria. Afterwards, clinical validity was carried out with the target population. RESULTS: the booklet, built from evidence from an integrative review, validated with judges, obtained an overall CVI of 0.98. After clinical validity with 27 women, it presents 24 sheets with illustrations produced by a graphic designer, subdivided into topics: gynecological system anatomy and gynecological cancer epidemiology, gynecological brachytherapy definition, therapeutic steps, approach to side effects and management, and two pages for notes. CONCLUSIONS: the booklet has validity for use in HDR gynecological brachytherapy treatment.

RESUMO

PURPOSE: The present consensus statement was developed by the GINECOR working group on behalf of the Spanish Society of Radiation Oncology (SEOR). This document provides an up-to-date review of the technical aspects in radiation treatment of vulvar cancer. METHODS: A two-round modified Delphi study was conducted to reach consensus on the appropriateness of technical aspects of external beam radiotherapy and brachytherapy. Three clinical scenarios were proposed: adjuvant treatment of vulvar cancer, radiation treatment of locally advanced vulvar carcinoma and locoregional recurrences. After the first round, an extensive analysis of current medical literature from peer-reviewed journal was performed to define evidence-based treatment options. In the second round, participants were asked to indicate their level of agreement with the preliminary recommendations according to the GRADE (Grade of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) criteria, as follows: strongly agree; agree; neither agree nor disagree; disagree and strongly disagree. RESULTS: The main recommendations on external beam radiotherapy and brachytherapy, both in adjuvant setting and local advanced disease are summarized. Recommendations include treatment technique, treatment volume, and doses in target and organs at-risk. Taking into consideration the different clinical scenarios of recurrent disease, the radiation treatment should be individualized. CONCLUSIONS: In the absence of robust clinical data, these recommendations may help to select the optimal radiotherapy approach for this relatively rare cancer.