A novel applicator for low-dose-rate brachytherapy of XXXX .

@entity1 @entity5 @entity189
The standard low-dose-rate (LDR) delivery system utilized in the definitive management of @entity1 with cervical @entity189 involves an intrauterine tandem and a pair of vaginal colpostats (ovoids). This well-known application system may deliver inadequate dosage if the @entity5 extends to the lower vaginal mucosa. During the gauze packing of the ovoids, either operator error or narrowing of the vaginal apex can result in mal-alignment of the colpostats and subsequent inadequate dosing to the ecto-cervix. A novel vaginal cylinder has been designed to address these concerns. Beginning January 1, 2001, @entity1 with @entity5 , endometrium, or vagina requiring LDR brachytherapy have been enrolled into an institutionally sanctioned clinical trial. As of May 31, 2001, a total of 11 @entity1 have been entered but only 10 were successfully implanted with the test device. @entity1 follow-up has ranged from 0.81 years to 1.2 years (median: 0.96 years). Using our study applicator, all @entity1 received within 10% of the preimplant prescribed dose to @entity5 . Also, no one had cumulative dosage that exceeded 10% of the maximum allowed dose to the critical normal tissues. Thus far, all study @entity1 have had no clinical evidence of persistence/recurrence of disease or complications from treatment. The preliminary results presented herein clearly demonstrate the feasibility of this novel LDR vaginal cylinder in the treatment of a variety of clinical situations involving @entity5 . Our institutional trial is continuing.
