The rectum is located at the back of the pelvis, in the curve of the sacrum and coccyx. Since the small intestine is highly sensitive to radiation, excessive dose absorption may lead to side effects such as intestinal perforation. In the radiotherapy planning of rectal cancer, it is necessary to consider avoiding important normal tissues such as the small intestine. Therefore, the prone position is the most common treatment for rectal cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy.
Advantage of Treating Rectal Cancer in Prone Position
Prone position immobilization combined with bladder fullness control can effectively protect the small intestine, help to irradiate the pelvic lymphatic drainage area, and provide a safer integrated boost to the target area. A large number of clinical data show that the prone position can significantly reduce the dose volume of the small intestine within the middle and low dose range.
- Chen Wei. Zhejiang Cancer Hospital. Comparison of rectal cancer radiotherapy in different technologies and postures on radiation dose of small intestine. 2016.
Common problems of prone position for rectal cancer
Patients undergoing radiotherapy for rectal cancer are generally treated in a prone position, with a full bladder, to reduce the volume of normal bowel in the high-dose volume. However, this position is difficult to maintain and is not consistently reproducible.
Bellows the reasons for causing setup errors
· It is difficult to reset patients, and the uncomfortable position for patient immobilization
· Prone posture is poor in stability and prone to rotation error
·The prone position is unsuitable for patients with older age, weakness, poor tolerance, and abdominal stoma
Klarity Prone Pelvis System
· Flexible to use with or without the mask, vacuum bag, AccuCushion
· The combination solutions enhance positioning accuracy and easy repositioning.
· Ergonomic design improves patient's comfort and compliance in challenging prone position
AccuCushions or Vacuum bags increase the contact area between the patient and the Prone Pelvis System to reduce the pressure intensity and relieve the prone position's discomfort, which ensures the tolerance and stability of patients in the prone position for longer treatment time.
