Modified Heyman packing performed with small number of Simon-Norman catheters

PURPOSE Modified Heyman packing method, performed usually with 6-11 flexible catheters is one out of many brachytherapy treatments. We described the insertion and dose planning method, with the use of 4-6 Simon-Norman catheters positioned to the fundus uteri, which is the most frequent source of the endometrial cancer. MATERIAL AND METHODS We investigated the dose distribution of the main classes of regular catheter insertions with Simon-Norman applicators using dose profiles, obtained in lateral and axial direction at the fundus, and compared with the dose distribution of the Y-shaped catheter arrangements. RESULTS The insertions with five and six Simon-Norman catheters produced higher dose at the fundus uteri, compared with the Y-shaped applicator. CONCLUSIONS Insertions performed with small number of catheters permits to perform dosimetry optimisation for each treatment fraction.