Design of a Novel Applicator for Esophageal High Dose Rate Brachytherapy

Abstract

esophageal cancer in medically inoperable patients is complex. We have previously examined the outcomes and toxicity in a series of patients with primary and recurrent superficial esophageal cancer, treated with endoluminal HDR brachytherapy at our institution (Folkert et al, Brachytherapy 2013). The study showed that HDR brachytherapy was a safe and well-tolerated treatment for both previously untreated and recurrent lesions of the esophagus. However, in light of the high rate of local recurrence in these patients, we are planning a prospective dose escalation trial for recurrent esophageal cancer to determine an optimal brachytherapy regimen. Here, we set to design an applicator for reliable and consistent delivery of these treatments.