Impact of brachytherapy applicators geometry on dose distribution in gynaecological cancer

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of suitable applicators for intracavitary brachytherapy to treat cervical cancer. Methods: This study was conducted at the Bahawalpur Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Oncology, Bahawalpur, Pakistan, in February 2014. Dose distributions for Fletcher and ring applicators were analysed at target points according to recommended protocols using Abacus software. The doses to the organs at risk, i.e. bladder and rectum, were also focused. SPSS 16 was used for data analysis. Results: A total of 40 patients' plans were considered. The mean absorbed dose at target point A was 6.87 +/- 0.201Gy in case of Fletcher applicator (p = 0.082) and 6.79 +/- 0.107Gy in case of ring applicator (p = 0.001). Absorbed dose at the target point was significantly higher for the Fletcher type applicators as compared to the ring applicators. However, the amount of doses at bladder and rectum were smaller for the Fletcher applicators. Conclusion: Fletcher applicator was more effective in achieving a better dose distribution in gynaecological malignancies, resulting in better treatment outcome.