Can the rectal size of prostate patients at MRI be used as a predictor of rectal size at CT for patients referred for radiotherapy planning?

Abstract

Keywords: Prostate cancer, computed tomography, magnetic resonance Introduction: To audit the dynamic interrelationship between rectal distension at diagnosis magnetic resonance (MRI) scan with the computed tomography (CT) radiotherapy planning scan; to determine the effect of rectal movement on the position of the prostatic gland. This review will examine the efficacy of rectal preparation. At present rectal distension at RT CT planning scan is assessed on control slices using GSTT protocol prior to having a full CT scan. If this is outside tolerance a repeat CT scan appointment whereby the patient is given an enema. If rectal size can be predicted prior to the CT planning scan, bowl preparation can be pre-empted to ensure efficiencies in the patient pathway. Method: A retrospective audit looking at the MRI diagnostic scans and radiotherapy CT planning scans of 141 patients with adenocarcinoma of the prostate between May to August 2019. To find out if rectal size at MRI serves as an indicator of rectal size at planning RT CT. Dependent on the outcome of the retrospective study, a prospective study will then be undertaken to assess if an intervention prior to RT CT scan such as a prescription of Docusate Sodium enema help resolve the issue of rectal size at planning. Results: Results pending. Conclusions & Discussion: The outcome should inform clinical practice, benefit patients and clinicians and provision of service. The audit may result in reduction of rebooking patients for repeat CT scan and cease the delay of treatment processes. Numerical