The latest webinar hosted by the Medical Physics community brought together experts in radiotherapy and nuclear medicine to discuss innovative techniques aimed at improving image quality for treatment planning and diagnostic accuracy. The event featured two insightful presentations focusing on CT artifact reduction in radiotherapy and the use of 3D printing for nuclear medicine imaging optimization.
The first presentation was delivered by Mas. Xhulia Dosti (Albania), an Advanced Machine Dosimetrist at the Royal Berkshire Hospital NHS UK. Her talk, titled "Clinical Commissioning of a Commercial CT Artifact Reduction Algorithm (iMar) for Hip Implants Radiotherapy Planning," highlighted the challenges posed by metal implants in radiotherapy treatment planning. Metal implants, such as hip prostheses, often introduce significant artifacts in CT imaging, leading to inaccuracies in dose calculation and treatment planning. The iMar (Iterative Metal Artifact Reduction) algorithm is a commercially available solution that mitigates these distortions, improving image clarity and the accuracy of dose distributions. By commissioning and validating this algorithm for clinical use, institutions can ensure more precise radiotherapy treatment for patients with metal implants, ultimately enhancing treatment efficacy and patient safety.
The second presentation was given by MSc. Alejandro Condori (Peru), a Nuclear Medicine Physicist at the School of Nuclear Medicine Foundation (FUESMEN), Mendoza, Argentina. His lecture, "Development of a 3D-Printed Accessory for a Phantom to Optimize the Acquisition of TRODAT-Tc99m SPECT/CT Brain Scans," focused on the role of 3D printing in nuclear medicine imaging. TRODAT-Tc99m SPECT/CT scans are widely used for assessing dopamine transporter function in the brain, which is crucial for diagnosing neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s. However, image acquisition can be affected by various factors, including patient movement and scanner limitations. The development of a customized 3D-printed accessory for imaging phantoms allows for better standardization of imaging protocols, optimizing the acquisition process and improving diagnostic accuracy.
The event was skillfully moderated by Javin Luke (Guyana), who ensured a smooth and engaging discussion. A special thank you goes out to the presenters for sharing their expertise and to all the organizers who contributed to making this webinar a success. These advancements in CT artifact reduction and 3D printing in nuclear medicine demonstrate the continuous efforts of medical physicists to refine imaging techniques, ultimately improving patient care worldwide.
About MMPAA
The Medical Physics Alumni Association is a community of professionals who have graduated from ICTP – University of Trieste master medical physics program. Members of the association are committed to staying connected with their peers and advancing the field of medical physics through research, education, and collaboration.