Akila N. Viswanathan - Böcker

This book is a practical guide to the use of modern radiation therapy techniques in women with gynecological cancers. Step-by-step instruction is provided on simulation, contouring, and treatment planning and delivery for cancers of the cervix, endometrium, vagina, and vulva. Beyond external beam radiation delivery, full details are presented on three-dimensional brachytherapy at all sites for which it is applicable. Moreover, in-depth guidance is offered on the various advanced techniques of radiation delivery, including intensity-modulated radiation therapy, image guidance for external beam and brachytherapy, and stereotactic body radiotherapy.Radiation therapy is a critical component of the multidisciplinary management of gynecological tumors. With modern technology, both external beam radiation and brachytherapy can be delivered in a highly conformal way. This requires precise contouring and accurate planning techniques. In clearly describing the indications for and thedelivery of quality radiation therapy for gynecological tumors, this book will benefit radiation oncologists, medical physicists, medical dosimetrists, radiation therapists, and radiotherapy residents.

Recent advances in the treatment of gynecologic malignancies led to a new worldwide consensus to introduce image guidance to gynecologic radiation therapy, particularly to brachytherapy. The book summarizes the changed practice of management: treatment planning for cervical cancer, not modified for over 60 years, has been shifted to an image-based approach, endometrial cancer management with an increase in the use of chemotherapy and vaginal brachytherapy, and vaginal cancer therapy including image guidance and high-dose delivery with IMRT.