Drag-and-Drop Oncology Software Allows Faster Tumor Contouring

Model-based segmentation (MBS) software has recently been developed for
image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) workflow enhancement.

The MBS software, developed by Philips Medical Systems (Best, The Netherlands), is an upgrade on the current Pinnacle3 radiation therapy planning system, and was presented at the 48th Annual Meeting of the American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM) in July/August 2006 in Orlando (FL, USA).

The current Pinnacle3 system combines AcQSim3 simulation, Syntegra image fusion, and P3IMRT modules to provide an oncology toolbox capable of sculpting radiation doses to tumors. The new MBS software provides an innovative advancement in reducing the time it takes to contour tumors and anatomic structures and is a vital step toward the future of IGRT and the ability to rapidly adapt patients' treatment plans based on their response to daily treatment.

The MBS software includes an anatomic library of three-dimensional (3D) patient organ structure models. Users can simply drag and drop the models onto patient image data and the software automatically adapts to each patient's anatomy. The library of anatomic models grows as new patient data are added, providing a unique ability to build a library based on regional demographic or clinical practice specialties.

"Philips investment in research and clinical IGRT partnerships has paid off with the launch of MBS,” said Philips project manager David Robinson, a certified medical dosimetrist. "IGRT workflow is enhanced by allowing clinicians to quickly contour the tumors and organs at risk in three dimensions, then propagate the organs to alternate 4D datasets to help physicians determine the extent of tumor movement within the patient. This capability opens up the possibility to adapt the daily treatment plan on the fly.”



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Philips Medical Systems