RTS5000 - Radiation therapy planning and treatment 2

Leader: Ms Caroline Wright

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2008 (Off-campus)

Synopsis

The second of three units dealing with specific planning and treatment protocols applied to a range of primary tumours or as palliative treatment in the presence of metastases this unit introduces a range of more complex diseases, sites and planning and treatment considerations and problems. Simple brachytherapy techniques are addressed and combination therapy with external beam treatment discussed. Planning and treatment problems associated with treatment site and patient shape, more complex stabilisation and critical normal tissues are further developed. Opportunities associated with asymmetry, mono-isocentric techniques and multi modality and 3D imaging and localisation are introduced.

Objectives

On successful completion of this unit students will be able to demonstrate and communicate a broad and critical conceptual understanding of:

1. disease investigation and staging for carcinomas affecting the breast, gynaecological and testicular tumours and sarcomas.
2. differences between palliative and curative intent and the implications of previous treatment.
3. appropriate patient positioning and localisation methods required particularly in terms of computed tomography localisation and simulation.
4. more complex planning possibilities and techniques including phased treatment regimes, asymmetry, mono-isocentric techniques, multileaf collimation.
5. conformality, plan evaluation tools and methods.
6. simple brachytherapy techniques such as single line source gynaecological, bronchus and oesophagus work.
7. relevant treatment delivery issues particularly on line electronic portal imaging.
8. early and late effects of treatment and follow up.
9. relevant safety issues and documentation standards and practices.

Assessment

Two clinical action plans of approximately 1500 words, and accompanying comparative reports of approximately 1500 words (40%)
One 180 minute end of semester written examination (60%).

Prerequisites

Successful completion of all units in year 1 of the course

Co-requisites

RTS5010