Pioneering innovative radiation oncology technology in clinics
BS Teh*,1,2,3, MD,
P Ortiz2, MS,
AC Paulino1,2, MD,
C Bloch1, PhD,
WH III Grant1, PhD,
EB Butler2,3, MD
1 Department of Radiology/Radiation Oncology,
Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
2 Department of Radiation Oncology, The Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas
3 The Methodist Hospital Research Institute, Houston, Texas
Abstract
Pioneering and implementing new technology successfully in
a radiation oncology clinic requires hard work, team effort and management
support. Over the last 15 years, we have pioneered the clinical implementation
of intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) as well as combined
radio-gene-therapy in the treatment of cancer. The entire department including
physicists, dosimetrists, therapists, nurses, managers, data managers,
radiation oncologists and residents in training, other medical specialists e.g.
neurosurgeons, urologists, pathologists, radiologists, molecular biologists and
many others have joined forces and contributed to the success. IMRT has
transitioned from an initial experimental approach to a standard of care
approach now in various disease sites. We are entering a new era of
image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) and molecular-targeted therapy and we
continue to strive to implement these new technologies in the clinics.
Frameless stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) and stereotactic body radiation
therapy (SBRT) have now become a clinical reality. Again, all these require a
tremendous amount of efficient management and cooperation among all
departmental staff. Five fundamental principles which can help the successful
pioneering and implementation of innovative radiation oncology approaches will
be discussed. These include identifying a project champion(s), pursuing a
multi-disciplinary approach, showing clinical efficacy and return on investment
(ROI), ability to articulate the project and celebrating the successful
implementation. � 2007 Biomedical Imaging and Intervention Journal. All
rights reserved.
Keywords: Pioneering, innovative, technology, radiation
oncology, intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT)
Introduction
Tremendous advances in both physics and biology have taken
place in radiation oncology over the last 20-30 years. For external beam
radiotherapy, we have progressed from ortho-voltage machines to mega-voltage
linear accelerators and now image-guided linear accelerators. For radiation
dosimetry planning and delivery, we have also progressed from a simple hand
calculation method of one field or parallel opposed fields to multi-field
three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT) to intensity-modulated
radiation therapy (IMRT) and more recently image-guided radiation therapy
(IGRT) and stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) [1-4]. Integrating advances in molecular biology and targeted therapy in the field of radiation
oncology has also seen improvement in treatment outcome [5]. The advances in radiation oncology approaches encompassing physics, biology and clinical aspects
have shown significant positive impact in cancer care from improving local
control to decreasing treatment-related side effects leading to better quality
of life and ultimately prolonged survival.
Innovative radiation oncology approaches in clinics
Over the last 15 years, we have pioneered the clinical
implementation of various radiation oncology approaches at our own institution.
Several of these together with the associated outcome in radiation oncology
will be highlighted here.
Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT)
The first patient was treated with IMRT in our department
in March 1994, marking the beginning of clinical implementation of this new
technology [1, 6]. IMRT has since thrived in radiation oncology and proved to
be superior to the conventional radiotherapy or 3D-CRT in a few body sites
especially head and neck, and prostate cancers. Since then, thousands of
patients with various tumors involving different parts of the body have been
treated with IMRT. We have demonstrated the efficacy of IMRT by a) decreasing
xerostomia with a parotid-sparing approach (Figure 1) in head and neck cancer
patients [7, 8], b) decreasing rectal toxicity in prostate cancer patients
utilizing a rectal balloon for prostate immobilisation (Figure 2a & 2b) [9-13], c) decreasing ototoxicity in children with medulloblastoma (Figure 3) [14, 15] and d) improvement in tumor control by allowing dose escalation [16]. At our institution, we have also pioneered a new fractionation scheme with IMRT known as
SMART (simultaneous modulated accelerated radiation
therapy) boost (Figure 1) [17]. This new fractionation schedule was
initially designed to overcome the rapid repopulation of tumor cells in head
and neck cancer. SMART boost of different total doses allows us to treat the
gross tumor and subclinical disease sites with different fraction sizes. It
also allows the convenience of once-daily treatment as compared to other
altered fractionation schemes requiring treatment two or three times a day to
overcome rapid repopulation in head and neck cancers. In addition, re-irradiation
with IMRT has become a reality [18, 19].
Combination radiation therapy and gene therapy / molecular targeted therapy
We have translated this approach from the laboratory to
the clinics at our institution [20-23]. There are many potential benefits in
combining radiotherapy with gene therapy as shown in (Table 1). Working closely
with molecular biologists specializing in cell and gene therapy, we have
demonstrated that combined radio-gene therapy increased tumor cell kill,
suppressed distant metastases and prolonged survival in prostate cancer in
animal models [24, 25]. This new form of spatial cooperation (two local therapy
causing enhanced local and systemic effects) is likely due to the stimulation
of immune system. This is also known as the active vaccine approach. Based on
this principle, our phase I/II clinical trial in prostate cancer has shown that
this is a promising approach and hopefully will be addressed in phase III
trials. We have also observed the activation of immune cells e.g. CD4 and CD8
in patients receiving combined radio-gene therapy [26, 27].
Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) and fractionated stereotactic radiotherapy
(SRT)
SRS and SRT program using BrainLab Novalis stereotactic
system was started in our department in November 2003. This program required
tremendous joint efforts from neurosurgeons and neuroradiologists in addition
to our departmental efforts. Initially, we treated mainly patients with primary
or metastatic brain tumors both benign and malignant, [28] but later proceeded to treat functional conditions such as trigeminal neuralgia.
Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT)
Once we gained experience in SRS and SRT for cranial
lesions, we embarked on stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) for
extracranial lesions using the BrainLab Novalis stereotactic system. At our
institution, image-guidance with visicoils (Figure 4) and stereotaxis allow for
the delivery of precise high-dose radiation in a few fractions, i.e. SBRT.
SBRT, as defined by the American Society of Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology,
and American College of Radiology practice guidelines is a treatment method
that delivers a high dose of radiation to the target, utilizing either a single
dose or a small number of fractions with a high degree of precision within the
body [29]. Again, clinical implementation of this new technology requires the collaborative efforts of a multidisciplinary team in the department including radiation oncologists, medical physicists, radiation therapists, medical dosimetrists, nurses and administrative personnel. We have now shown that SBRT may play an important role in radio-resistant tumors such as renal cell carcinoma [4].
Image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT)
The advances in technology and physics in radiation
oncology have led to clinical implementation of image-guided radiation therapy
(IGRT). Because the surrounding normal tissues receiving high doses of
radiation for IMRT is less compared to older technologies, the certainty of
localisation of targets during treatment is very important. Image guidance
before each treatment will improve the accuracy of radiotherapy delivery and
avoid marginal misses/recurrences. We have implemented two different IGRT
linear accelerators in our clinics, namely Helical Tomotherapy and BrainLab
Novalis systems (Figures 4 & 5), which use megavoltage CT (MVCT) and
kilovoltage X-Ray (KV X-Ray) for image-guidance. We have transitioned from IMRT
using serial or sequential Tomotherapy (NOMOS system) to IGRT using Helical
Tomotherapy (Figure 5). Helical Tomotherapy has now allowed us to treat tumors
in almost all body sites encompassing larger areas, compared to initial
treatment sites limited to prostate, brain, and head and neck. There is also no
need for matching field approach with Helical Tomotherapy. This transition
certainly requires teamwork but has significantly positive impact on patient
care allowing more patients to receive and benefit from IMRT.
PET-CT fusion in radiation target delineation
PET-CT, combining anatomic and physiologic or functional
imaging information, has made significant impact in oncologic imaging. We have
also shown that the incorporation of PET-CT in radiotherapy target delineation
has improved the accuracy, e.g. in identifying biologically active areas on
PET-CT but negative on CT, decreased the target volume as PET-CT can help
differentiate between active tumor and collapsed or consolidated lung [30-35]. Again, with the multidisciplinary involvement in the department, we have
managed to implement PET-CT fusion in the target delineation in our clinics.
Computer visualisation techniques
Computer visualisation techniques (CVTs) are an emerging
technology with the ability to maximize the currently untapped advantages of
intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) (Figure 6) [36]. The visual speed and dynamic strategies inherent in CVTs improve IMRT by distilling vast amounts of anatomic, multimodal imaging, textual/meaning, and surgical/outcome data into a large, rigorous, standardised evidence base of storable target delineation plans. This ability to standardize strategies will allow the collection of meaningful evidence-based outcome data. Utilizing CVTs approach has fostered evidence-based target delineation and enhanced the accuracy in delineating GTV, CTV including draining lymphatics and normal tissues/avoidance structures in various anatomical sites. This system has important values in teaching nodal delineation to the residents and practicing radiation oncologists and it may also serve as a tool to standardize nodal delineation among participants across specialties and training levels in multi-institutional trials addressing IMRT.
Five fundamental principles for success
Implementing new technologies into a radiation oncology
practice can be achieved successfully if a few fundamental principles are
followed including: (1) identify a project champion; (2) approach it in a
multi-disciplinary manner; (3) show clinical efficacy and return on investment
(ROI) to all stakeholders; (4) be able to articulate the project concisely to
those making the financial decisions; and (5) celebrate successful
implementation. While these are relatively easy principles to grasp, not everyone
adheres to them.
Identify a Project Champion(s)
Most, if not all, successful projects have a project
champion or person who has the energy and passion to see an idea through from
inception to implementation. These persons are usually willing to go the extra
mile to ensure its success. They will give it their all and will do almost
everything to answer all the questions decision makers ask and provide the
entire team with up-to-date information. They are the driving force behind
generating excitement about the project and spreading the word. A good example
here is the success of clinical implementation of IMRT in our department. There
was the commitment, determination, hard work and dedication of the medical
director of the department in addition to working closely with the chief of
medical physics and the administrative director. The project has an
undertaking, with a clear beginning and end, usually aimed at creating some
useful change or adding value. The skills needed to complete a project
successfully are not required to manage a process and so project management has
evolved as a discipline of its own. The successful project champion/manager has
the ability to bring together all the right resources, and organize and manage
the technology to a defined result. As with most successful projects, two-way
communication is a requisite in order to perform on track. In other words,
planning is conversation.
Approach it in a multi-disciplinary manner
Radiation oncology practices generally consist of radiation oncologists, medical
physicists, radiation therapists, medical dosimetrists, nurses and
administrative personnel. It is important for all disciplines who will be
involved in the technology roll-out be involved from the front end of the
process. This is highlighted again by our initial efforts in implementing IMRT
clinically. We tried to achieve the best patient and target immobilisation by
placing patients in immobilisation device, placing rectal balloon to minimize
prostate motion and placing head screws on head and neck patients undergoing
daily treatment. These were new endeavors requiring tremendous efforts from
radiation oncologists, medical physicists, radiation therapists, medical
dosimetrists, nurses and administrative personnel. Equally important is the involvement
of the right people from across the organisation, like marketing, facilities,
purchasing and your boss. The successful project champion/manager has the
ability to bring together all the right resources and organisation to the table
to manage the technology to a defined result. Again, as with most successful
projects, two-way communication is a requisite in order to perform on track.
This spans across multiple disciplines in radiation oncology.
Show clinical efficacy and Return on Investment (ROI)
Most administrative decisionmakers get excited about an
initiative if they can understand the value added and can identify with the
ROI. The ROI is important for administrators because it can serve as a gauge
for/against future performance of technology implementation. A positive ROI can
be associated with success. Likewise, evidence-based patient outcomes (lower
morbidity and mortality rates, quality of life, etc.) can help sell the
technology. The best example is IMRT. We have contributed significantly to the
acceptance of IMRT as standard of care in the treatment of various cancers
especially head and neck cancers, and prostate cancers. We have shown the
clinical efficacy of IMRT on decreasing treatment-related toxicity e.g.
xerostomia in head and neck cancer and decreasing rectal toxicity in prostate
cancer as well as the improvement in local control. These important
achievements have led to a positive impact on ROI as the current return on
technical charges has also increased accordingly. Hence, if individuals
responsible for technology implementation can see the added value, embracing
and buying into the project facilitates successful implementation.
Ability to articulate the project
One of the keys to get a project off the ground is being
able to articulate your vision to the decision makers: a one-page summary or a
two-minute elevator conversation. Some people say too much, while others do not
say enough. It is important for the project champion to be balanced in brevity
with verbosity, while hitting the key points. Outcomes, cost, executive support
and ROI are key drivers and content areas one should have at the tip of their
tongue.
Celebrate Successful Implementation
One of the most authentic ways to recognize successful
project implementation is to celebrate with all those who contributed to its
success. Handwritten notes to individuals, lunch or dinner meetings, a day off,
and public recognition are all great ways to celebrate success. The most
rewarding celebration for us is when we are recognised as the pioneers or
�gurus� in these innovative approaches. Positive reinforcement goes a long way
in establishing strong working relationships with those who contribute to
successful implementation.
Conclusion
Pioneering and implementing new technology successfully in
a radiation oncology clinic are very important endeavors and require hard work,
team effort as well as the management support. We have successfully achieved
these endeavors in our clinics over the last 15 years, following the five
fundamental principles discussed above.
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Received 4 February 2008; received in revised form 8 April 2008; accepted 15 April 2008
Correspondence: Department of Radiation Oncology, The Methodist Hospital, 6565 Fannin, DB1-077, Houston, TX 77030, United States. Tel.: +713-441-4800; Fax: +713-441-4493; E-mail: bteh@tmhs.org (Bin S. Teh).
Please cite as: Teh BS, Ortiz P, Paulino AC, Bloch C, Grant WH III, Butler EB,
Pioneering innovative radiation oncology technology in clinics, Biomed Imaging Interv J 2007; 3(3):e57
<URL: http://www.biij.org/2007/3/e57/>
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