Magnetic Resonance Imaging Simulators for Simulation and Treatment for Patients Requiring Radiation Therapy: A Review of the Clinical Effectiveness, Cost-Effectiveness, and Guidelines

Details

Files
Project Status:
Completed
Project Line:
Health Technology Review
Project Sub Line:
Summary with Critical Appraisal
Project Number:
RC1058-000

Question

  1. What is the clinical effectiveness of the use of magnetic resonance imaging simulators for simulation and treatment planning for patients requiring radiation therapy?
  2. What is the cost-effectiveness of the use of magnetic resonance imaging simulators for simulation and treatment planning for patients requiring radiation therapy?
  3. What are the evidence-based guidelines regarding the use of magnetic resonance imaging simulators in the simulation and treatment of patients requiring radiation therapy?

Key Message

Clinical evidence of limited quality from one retrospective cohort study of patients with prostate cancer suggested that the use of magnetic resonance imaging simulation in conjunction with computed tomography simulation for treatment planning may reduce acute genitourinary toxicity compared with computed tomography simulation only. Magnetic resonance imaging use had no identified benefit for reduced acute gastrointestinal (rectal) toxicity.No relevant cost-effectiveness studies were identified on the use of magnetic resonance imaging simulators for simulation and treatment planning for patients requiring radiation therapy. No relevant evidence-based guidelines were identified for the use of magnetic resonance imaging simulators in the simulation and treatment of patients requiring radiation therapy.Given the limited availability and low quality of evidence, the effectiveness and use of magnetic resonance imaging simulators for simulation and treatment planning for patients requiring radiation therapy remains uncertain.