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PDR Brachytherapy

Dose calculation for a typical PDR treatment for a gyn application

Pulsed-dose-rate (PDR) brachytherapy is similar to HDR, but radiotherapy is delivered in short 'pulses' over several hours. The source used is typically a 1 Curie Iridium 192 source - assembled and driven the same way as HDR.

The principle behind PDR is that it is biologically similar to traditional low dose rate (LDR) techniques where sources are manually loaded into catheters and applicators. The source is left in place for a number of hours or days. Because PDR uses a remote controlled afterloader, it offers the advantages of radiation safety, prospective planning, and precise dose shaping.

Different from the HDR technique, PDR treatments are delivered on an in-patient basis and require a dedicated shielded treatment room where a patient can stay for up to a day. Controlling applicator movement during that time adds another level of challenge. In order to allow visitors and staff to interact with the patient, PDR equipment typically has a treatment interrupt capability which allows the source to automatically be returned to the afterloader while nurses, hospital staff, and visiting family members are in the room.

Many treatment centers prefer to use the PDR technique in situations where an LDR equivalent treatment is required because it allows for the added benefit of patient contact. Due to regulatory restrictions, however, it is not widely used in the USA.

Outside the United States, Varian supports PDR techniques with the GammaMedPlus™ HDR/PDR afterloader, BrachyVision™ brachytherapy treatment planning system, and a wide range of treatment applicators & accessories.

 

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