A Randomized Pragmatic Study of CT- Versus MRI-Based Planning for High-Dose-Rate Prostate Brachytherapy for Prostate Cancer

Summary

This clinical trial studies the safety of a computed tomography (CT) scan, with or without a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, in planning for high-dose-rate (HDR) prostate brachytherapy treatment in patients with prostate cancer. Brachytherapy is a type of radiation therapy in which radioactive implants, such as pellets, seeds, ribbons, wires, needles, balloons, or capsules, are placed in the body, directly into or near the tumor. The radiation is delivered through a flexible tube called a catheter or a larger device called an applicator. Treatment planning, or simulation, is a process used to plan radiation therapy so that the target area is precisely located and marked. A CT scan is a procedure that uses a computer linked to an x-ray machine to make a series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body. The pictures are taken from different angles and are used to create 3-dimensional views of tissues and organs. An MRI is a procedure in which radio waves and a powerful magnet linked to a computer are used to create detailed pictures of areas inside the body. The addition of MRI to CT for HDR prostate brachytherapy treatment planning may help patients have less urine leakage and less pain after treatment.

Description