| Abstract: | In recent years, image-guided brachytherapy (IGBT) for cervical cancer has been rapidly developed in China. IGBT can improve local control and survival rates in patients with locally advanced cervical cancer compared with the two-dimensional technology. Dose volume histogram parameters for the high risk clinical target volume (HR-CTV), intermediate risk clinical target volume (IR-CTV) and organs at risk should be calculated, reported, and adopted to explore the relationship with local control rate and incidence of complications. The volume and topography of residual tumor at the initiation of IGBT is significantly correlated with local control rate. The residual tumor should be assessed by the combination of MRI, ultrasound images and gynecological examinations. The appropriate implant with intracavitary applicator supplemented with interstitial needles can improve the dose distribution in the target area. Target delineation, dose assessment and quality control should be conducted strictly according to the principles and consensus. To standardize its application, the Chinese expert consensus was jointly formulated by Brachytherapy Group of China Society for Radiation Oncology, the Gynecological Oncology Group of Chinese Association for Therapeutic Radiation Oncologists, and the Brachytherapy Special Committee of Chinese Anti-Cancer Association in light of the national conditions in China. |
