Considerations when introducing MRI into a radiation therapy environment

Abstract

This issue of Journal of Medical Radiation Sciences includes two papers presenting different uses of magnetic resonance (MR) in radiation therapy (RT). With the advancement of MR‐simulators and Magnetic resonance linear accelerators (MRL), in addition to the use of diagnostic MR becoming more common place in the radiotherapy setting, there are a number of challenges to be considered. In this article, we present the perspectives of radiation therapists and medical physicists involved in the commissioning of an MRL in our centre. Image shows in‐house 3D printed supports mounted on the vendor‐supplied QA platform. The supports locate an array so that it is centred in the radiation field.

The current and future role of the MRI radiographer in radiation oncology: A collaborative, experiential reflection on the Australian rollout of dedicated MRI simulators

“…Few resources are currently available for the radiographer entering the specialised field of radiotherapy. 13 Understanding the specific needs of MRI for RT requires radiographers to spend time observing RT treatment and planning. Experience in CT simulation gives insight into patient treatment positioning and RT immobilisation equipment, as well as the limitations and requirements of radiotherapy planning systems and software (e.g.…”

“…Few resources are currently available for the radiographer entering the specialised field of radiotherapy 13 . Understanding the specific needs of MRI for RT requires radiographers to spend time observing RT treatment and planning.…”

Old dogs, new tricks: MR‐Linac training and credentialing of radiation oncologists, radiation therapists and medical physicists

“…With this shift to MR‐guided radiotherapy, it is necessary to consider MR‐Linac‐specific training and credentialing of staff that includes MR safety, MR image acquisition and optimisation for radiotherapy purposes, MR image interpretation and adaptive radiotherapy strategies. 7 , 8 …”

“…In contrast, with MR‐Linac systems, it is common practice for radiation oncologists (ROs), radiation oncology medical physicists (ROMPs) and RTs to be present at treatment delivery, consequently changing the traditional role of these professional groups (Table 1). With this shift to MR‐guided radiotherapy, it is necessary to consider MR‐Linac‐specific training and credentialing of staff that includes MR safety, MR image acquisition and optimisation for radiotherapy purposes, MR image interpretation and adaptive radiotherapy strategies 7,8 …”

“…With this shift to MR-guided radiotherapy, it is necessary to consider MR-Linac-specific training and credentialing of staff that includes MR safety, MR image acquisition and optimisation for radiotherapy purposes, MR image interpretation and adaptive radiotherapy strategies. 7,8 This article will detail the training and credentialing framework that has been developed to support competency and efficiency of our processes. We discuss how the introduction of the Elekta Unity MR-Linac in our department has impacted ways of working and more…”