Shaping success: clinical implementation of a 3D-printed electron cutout program in external beam radiation therapy

• DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1237037
• Publication Date: 2023-08-09T08:44:39Z
• Authors: Joseph B. Schulz; Clinton Gibson; Piotr Dubrowski; Caroline M. Marquez; Lynn Million; Yushen Qian; Lawrie Skinner; Amy S. Yu
• Keywords: Isocenter

Purpose The integration of 3D-printing technology into radiation therapy (RT) has allowed for a novel method to develop personalized electron field-shaping blocks with improved accuracy. By obviating the need handling highly toxic Cerrobend molds, clinical workflow is significantly streamlined. This study aims expound upon 3D-printed cutouts in RT and furnish one year in-vivo dosimetry data. Methods materials 6x6 cm, 10x10 15x15 cm applicators were designed implemented after dosimetric commissioning ensure congruence cutouts. consisted four parts: i) cutout aperture was extracted from treatment planning system (TPS). A 3D printable then generated automatically through custom scripts; ii) PLA filament, filled tungsten ball bearings, underwent quality assurance (QA) verify density dosimetry; iii) performed optically stimulated luminescence dosimeters (OSLDs) patient’s first compared calculated dose TPS; iv) completion, recycled. Results QA OSLD measurements conducted (n=40). produced (n=3), (n=30), (n=7). expected weight differed measured by 0.4 + 1.1%. skin OSLDs TPS on central axis. difference between doses 4.0 5.2%. Conclusion successful implementation reduced labor, costs, removed use workplace while meeting standards.