CERVICAL-CANCER - APPLICATION OF MR-IMAGING IN RADIATION-THERAPY

PURPOSE: To evaluate magnetic resonance (MR) imaging in the planning o f radiation therapy for patients with cervical cancer. MATERIALS AND M ETHODS: MR imaging was performed in 15 patients with predominantly adv anced cervical carcinomas. Skin markings of the radiation ports were l abeled with MR-detectable tubing and beads to assess the adequacy of p ort placement. Volume and extent of tumor at MR imaging were compared with those at physical and computed tomographic (CT) examinations. RES ULTS: Tumor involvement of normal structures (parametrium, vagina, end ometrium) was more extensive at MR imaging than at clinical examinatio n in six patients (40%) and at CT in five patients (33%), resulting in modification of the radiation fields in eight patients (53%). Tumor s ize was larger on MR images than at clinical examination in 11 patient s (73%). CONCLUSION: MR imaging can depict tumor volume and better del ineate the extent of involvement than physical and CT examination. Thi s can be useful for placement of radiation ports, especially when smal l boost fields are used.