The technique of intensity-modulated radiotherapy in the treatment of cholangiocarcinoma.

AIMS AND BACKGROUND Conventional radiotherapy in inoperable cholangiocarcinoma is limited by radiotolerance of the surrounding tissues. The aim of our dosimetric study was an evaluation of intensity-modulated radiotherapy in the treatment of inoperable bile duct carcinoma. METHODS Four patients with inoperable cholangiocarcinoma treated by self-expandable stent placed to the biliary tree and radiotherapy were studied. The rotational technique, conformal 3D BOX technique and intensity-modulated radiotherapy plan were compared. Dose volume histograms and the normal tissue complication probability concept were used for comparison. The stent was used for target motion verification. RESULTS The intensity-modulated radiotherapy plans showed favorable dose distribution in planning target volume and remarkable sparing of organs at risk. CONCLUSIONS The intensity-modulated radiotherapy technique in bile duct carcinomas deserves further research and clinical evaluation.