The modern practice of radiotherapy demands that radiation oncologists learn new skills in target definition. In addition, the radiation oncologist must be knowledgeable of the limitations of the imaging devices and software tools used, such as axial computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET), and image fusion techniques used in defining the gross tumor volume (GTV). All IMRT and IGRT techniques currently used are essentially based on three-dimensional conformal RT (3D-CRT). Newer computer-based imaging methods, including MRI, and PET, combined with more advanced computerized treatment planning systems, have led to the ability to more precisely define the GTV and surrounding OARs to provide more precise target definition and treatment planning.
The definition of the target volume is dependent on the imaging modality used and the ability to register
and fuse image sets, accurately account for microscopic disease extent (i.e., the determination of the pathologic tumor extent), and accurately account for target/shape motion and immobilization uncertainties.
Currently, our group is attempting to gain some insight into the tumor behavior and microenvironment using multimodal MR imaging.
Our major focus areas in cancer & treatment team are as follows:
- Assessment of early response of GBM tumors to chemoradiation therapy using diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) techniques;
- Assessment of early response of nasopharynx tumors and lymphadenopathy by DWI;
- Delineation of tumor margin employing magnetic resonance imaging (MRS) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI);
- Detection of the different region of the tumor by multi-modality MRI (DWI, PWI,) in patients with prostate cancer
Our Cancer and Treatment Team Members
