Trial Information

Cone-Beam Computed Tomography in Image-Guided Radiotherapy for Patients With Bladder Cancer

Cone beam computed tomography (CT) is new technology that allows the acquisition of
3-dimensional cross-sectional imaging while the patient is positioned on a linear
accelerator couch. Cone beam CT also provides 3D soft tissue volumetric data and therefore
important information on daily interfraction movement and deformation of normal critical
structures within the pelvis. Visualization of the tumor using this technology may also be
enhanced by the additional placement of fiducial markers around the tumor bed to ensure even
more accurate targeting. The aim of this study is to assess the feasibility of daily cone
beam CT for image guidance in patients receiving radiation therapy (RT) for bladder cancer
as well document changes in size and location of the bladder and rectum during an entire
course of RT. This will enable us to explore techniques for radiation therapy based on
normal tissue avoidance models to reduce treatment toxicity and potentially dose escalation
in the future.