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"If intensity-modulated radiation therapy [IMRT] were like a game of horseshoes, close would be good enough. But IMRT is no game and close isn¹t even an option"*
This excerpt focuses on the key to successful external beam treatment and image-guided radiation therapy, which include not only IMRT, but also conformal radiation therapy and proton therapy. VISICOIL markers are designed to be used as an imaging aid in all these applications.
Visibility / Imagability |
VISICOIL™ linear fiducial markers are naturally visible by ultrasound, x-Ray, CT, MRI, and high-energy photons (portal images), allowing the physicians to implant the markers under one mode and later visualize them by another technique for treatment planning.
Flexibility |
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The coiled-wire design of VISICOIL™ provides extreme flexibility of the marker and allows the marker to conform with highly mobile soft tissue.
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Stability in Soft Tissue |
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The extended and coiled-wire structure of the VISICOIL™ provides for stability of the marker in tissue. The marker is designed to minimize migration and movement... in essence, to stay where you implant it.
The results of implantation into a canine prostate model indicate that the VISICOIL markers stayed in place once deployed, even when beyond the margin of the gland. |
Extended Length |
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The extended length of the VISICOIL™ marker allows the eye to track the marker image in soft tissue. As has been demonstrated in anatomical phantoms, VISICOIL can be more easily recognized than the much larger point markers and with less confusion.
Green arrows note the VISICOIL markers. Comparative seeds are labeled with Orange arrows. X-Ray Image Courtesy of Dirk Verellen, University of Brussels |
Volume Visualization |
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Three points, when correctly visualized, define a plane.
Two or more VISICOIL™ markers can provide volume information.
See the image |
Thin Profile |
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These markers can be inserted by a fine needle, from 22- to 18-gauge, resulting in a less traumatic procedure to the patient. (Actual needle gauge is dependant upon the diameter of the marker to be implanted.) Typically, a 17-gauge or larger needle has been used to introduce the 1.2mm marker shown.
Comparison of a 0.75mm VISICOILTM (top), 0.35mm VISICOIL (center) and solid 1.2mm "seed" markers. |
Image Fusion |
VISICOIL™ markers are visible using various imaging modalities. Thus, the position of the marker or markers can be used for image fusion when using different modes (e.g. MRI-CT, US-CT, etc.).
Delivery System |
The VISICOIL™ delivery system is a simple design made to introduce (drop) the marker into the lumen of the appropriate needle.
Sterility |
The VISICOIL™ markers are delivered sterile and ready for use in the OR. |
